Discover Castor Oil’s Potential
Long before it became a wellness trend, castor oil was a staple in grandma’s medicine cabinet as a trusted remedy. Castor oil, extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has a long history in traditional medicine, valued for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (1-4). While some healthcare practitioners propose that castor oil may aid in detoxification and lymphatic stimulation, these claims are not yet backed by strong scientific evidence (5,6). However, when used in conjunction with infrared sauna therapy, castor oil might enhance the detox experience, offering a complementary approach for those looking to boost their well-being.
Benefits of Castor Oil
- Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil make it a popular choice for relieving joint pain and muscle soreness. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated that castor oil applications reduced pain and inflammation in patients with arthritis (4).
- Skin Health: Castor oil is deeply moisturizing and can help treat various skin conditions such as dryness, inflammation, and acne. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for soothing irritated skin and promoting wound healing. Research published in the Journal of Dermatology found that castor oil significantly improved skin hydration and reduced the severity of acne in participants (2) .
- Detoxification and Lymphatic Support: While castor oil is often used by some healthcare practitioners to support the body’s natural detoxification processes, its benefits in this area are not yet scientifically proven. When applied topically, it is believed to enhance lymphatic circulation, which may aid in the body’s removal of toxins. Some practitioners have observed promising results with their patients, noting potential improvements in lymphatic drainage and a reduction in inflammation, suggesting that castor oil could be a valuable addition to a detox routine (6,7).
- Hair Growth: Castor oil is also celebrated for its ability to promote hair growth and improve hair health. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging growth. A study in the International Journal of Trichology found that regular use of castor oil improved hair thickness and reduced hair loss in participants (8).
- Eye Health: Recent research highlights the potential benefits of castor oil in managing dry eye conditions. Castor oil helps to stabilize the tear film and prevent its evaporation, providing relief from dryness. When used as an ingredient in eye drops, it has shown promise in reducing symptoms like irritation and inflammation. However, it’s important to note that applying 100% castor oil directly to the eyes is not recommended due to the risk of irritation.
Researchers are also exploring its use in treating blepharitis, where it has demonstrated benefits like reducing eyelid inflammation and improving symptoms. These findings suggest that castor oil could be a valuable, natural option for those dealing with dry eye and related conditions (1,9).
6. Digestive Health:
Castor oil has a long history of use as a natural laxative. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil stimulates the intestines, promoting bowel movements and providing relief from constipation. This use is well-supported by research, including a study published in the National Library of Medicine, which found that castor oil packs were effective in relieving constipation in patients (10). However, it’s essential to use castor oil for this purpose under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as excessive use can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Enhancing Infrared Sauna Therapy with Castor Oil
Infrared saunas are known for promoting detoxification through sweat, which helps eliminate toxins from the body. Some practitioners suggest that applying castor oil before or during a sauna session may enhance these effects by improving circulation and aiding in lymphatic function.
Additionally, the combination of castor oil and infrared heat can provide relief from sore muscles and joints, reduce inflammation and pain (2,4,10), and promote a sense of relaxation and well-being, making it a holistic approach to overall health.
*Tip: Pair castor oil with your favorite essential oils in the sauna for enhanced oil absorption into the skin, providing deep moisturization and aiding detoxification, while maximizing the therapeutic effects of both the oil and the sauna session.(essential oil link)

How to Use Castor Oil with Infrared Sauna Therapy
- Pre-Sauna Application: Before your infrared sauna session, apply a generous amount of castor oil to areas where you want to target detoxification, such as the abdomen, lower back, or joints. Massage the oil into your skin using circular motions to stimulate lymphatic flow. (You can choose to apply the castor oil directly or use a castor oil pack on top, depending on your preference.)
- During Sauna: Once inside the sauna, the heat will help the castor oil penetrate deeper into your skin. You can enhance the experience by gently massaging the oil into your skin during the session to keep circulation active.
- Post-Sauna Care: After your sauna session, take a warm shower to wash off the castor oil and any toxins that have been released. Follow up with a light moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
When purchasing the highest quality castor oil, consider the following important factors:
- Dark Bottle: Castor oil should be stored in a dark, amber, or cobalt blue (ideally glass) bottle to protect it from light exposure, which can degrade its quality.
- Cold-Pressed: Look for oil that is cold-pressed, meaning it is extracted without the use of heat, which preserves its chemical composition and beneficial properties.
- Organic Certification: Choose certified organic castor oil to ensure it is free from pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and other harmful chemicals.
- Hexane-Free: Ensure that the oil is hexane-free, meaning it hasn’t been extracted using hexane, a chemical solvent that can leave residues and affect the purity.
- Unrefined: Unrefined castor oil is in its purest form, retaining all of its natural nutrients and therapeutic properties.
- Viscosity and Color: High-quality castor oil should have a thick consistency and a pale yellow to golden color. It should not be overly watery or clear.
- Source of the Beans: Consider the source of the castor beans. Ideally, the oil should be sourced from a reputable region known for high-quality castor beans.
- Purity: Ensure the oil is 100% pure castor oil without any added fillers, preservatives, or synthetic ingredients.
- Smell: Castor oil should have a mild, earthy smell. A strong or rancid odor may indicate poor quality or spoilage.
- Packaging: The oil should be packaged in a way that prevents oxidation and contamination, such as with an airtight seal and a dropper or pump for easy dispensing.
*While ricin is a toxic protein found in raw castor seeds, it is not present in castor oil. During the oil extraction process, ricin is effectively removed, making castor oil safe for use. So, you can enjoy the benefits of castor oil without concern.
Conclusion
Castor oil is a versatile and powerful natural remedy that offers a wide range of health benefits. Whether used for detoxification, skin care, pain relief, or hair growth, castor oil can be an integral part of your wellness routine. When combined with infrared sauna therapy, the benefits of castor oil are further enhanced, providing a holistic approach to health and well-being. Consider integrating castor oil into your daily routine and sauna sessions to experience its full potential.
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References:
- Sandford, E. C., Muntz, A., & Craig, J. P. (2021). Therapeutic potential of castor oil in managing blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction and Dry Eye. Clinical and Experimental Optometry, 104(3), 315–322. https://doi.org/10.1111/cxo.13148
- Kandola, A. (n.d.). Castor oil: Benefits, use, and side effects. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319844
- LaMantia, J. (2024, April 29). Castor oil for lymphatic drainage. Jean LaMantia – Registered Dietitian in Toronto, ON. https://jeanlamantia.com/castor-oil-for-lymphatic-drainage/
- Hussain, A., Aslam, B., Muhammad, F., Faisal, M. N., Kousar, S., Mushtaq, A., & Bari, M. U. (2021). Anti-arthritic activity of Ricinus communis L. and Withania somnifera L. extracts in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats via modulating inflammatory mediators and subsiding oxidative stress. Iranian journal of basic medical sciences, 24(7), 951–961. https://doi.org/10.22038/ijbms.2021.55145.12355
- Subramaniyan, V. (2020). Therapeutic importance of caster seed oil. Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention, 485–495. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-818553-7.00034-6
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- says:, D. K., & K, D. (2023b, October 23). Your lymphatic system: Why it matters and how to boost lymphatic drainage. Dr. Jill Carnahan, MD. https://www.jillcarnahan.com/2023/10/23/your-lymphatic-system-why-it-matters-and-how-to-boost-lymphatic-drainage/
- Mysore, V., & Arghya, A. (2022). Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited. International journal of trichology, 14(3), 84–90. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijt.ijt_189_20
- Powell, S. (2024, February 16). Researchers investigate potential of castor oil in dry eye management. Association of Optometrists (AOP) – Homepage. https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/science-and-vision/research/2024/02/16/researchers-investigate-potential-of-castor-oil-in-dry-eye-management
- Alookaran, J. (2024, May 24). Castor oil. StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551626/