5 benefits of castor oil for long and healthy hair

When it comes to multi-purpose oils and serums, castor oil tops the list. It can be used as an antibacterial agent, moisturizer, pain-relieving lubricant, and more. But it’s especially beneficial for one of the most sensitive parts of our bodies: our scalp. Whether you’re struggling with an itchy scalp, dry ends, or hair loss, treating your scalp with castor oil could be the solution to long and luscious hair.

The history of castor oil dates back to 4,000 BC, when Egyptian ruler Cleopatra used the ripe seeds of the castor plant to whiten the whites of her eyes. According to trichologist Jay Small, the oil has also been used more recently to treat hair and scalp damage. “The original purpose of castor oil was not to be used as an ingredient in beauty products,” he explains, noting that over time, however, “people experimented with using it orally and topically and found that it has many benefits.”

Where does castor oil come from?

Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant Ricinus communis, commonly called the castor bean plant or castor oil plant. The seeds undergo a heating process to remove the toxic enzyme ricin, preparing them for safe use by consumers.

Why is castor oil so popular?

Castor oil is popular for a variety of reasons, but the most important is its chemical composition. “Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid that can stimulate blood flow to the scalp, resulting in healthier, stronger hair,” explains Small. “Its unique chemical structure gives it the ability to act as both a non-drying oil and a humectant, allowing it to draw and lock moisture into the hair.” Few hair oils can achieve the same effect.

In addition to its powerful chemical composition, castor oil is also virtually harmless in small doses. “There are few things that have so many benefits with so few negative side effects,” says Small. Whether you’re suffering from dry skin, damaged hair or other irregularities, castor oil could help.

The benefits of castor oil

It can create and retain moisture in the hair

Castor oil is a great moisturizer that helps draw and retain moisture from our hair, explains hairstylist Tiffany Rose Dean. “Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it a natural moisturizer for hair. It absorbs easily into your hair, leaving it feeling smoother and softer.” Once the castor oil penetrates the hair, it locks in moisture by sealing the hair follicles with its protective compounds.

It soothes an irritated scalp

If you suffer from an itchy scalp, castor oil is for you. “This oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it great for treating irritated and dry scalps,” says Dean. Scalp inflammation typically manifests itself as itchy, red, and flaky patches on the scalp, so when you start to notice the symptoms, you can reach for a bottle of castor oil.

It gives the hair elasticity

Many of us dream of having hair that doesn’t break easily, and using castor oil in our hair can bring you one step closer to that dream. Hair is particularly prone to breakage when styled – frequent brushing, pulling and kneading can cause delicate hair follicles to break. If you regularly massage the hair and scalp with castor oil, you will notice less hair breakage over time.

It actively promotes hair growth

Have you been trying to grow your hair but haven’t had any success? Try castor oil. Small and Dean agree that applying castor oil to hair can encourage growth in thinning areas. “While it won’t do that on its own, it will moisturize your scalp, creating a great environment for hair growth,” Dean explains. Although hair growth requires a holistic approach – including dietary changes, exercise, and other factors that play a role in hair growth – applying castor oil can increase the ability to do so.

It gives the hair a natural shine

Who doesn’t want shiny, luscious, beautiful hair? No one. Castor oil contains humectants – ingredients that hold moisture – that leave a natural shine. “Castor oil gives your hair a glossy sheen, especially when applied to the middle and ends,” says Dean. When oiling your hair, don’t forget to oil the bottom half of your hair for extra shine.