Benefits Of Castor Oil
Castor OilÂ’ is a pale yellow liquid which is extracted from the castor seeds. This oil has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to which it has been used as a medicine since the past centuries. Most benefits of castor oil are due to the high quantities of unsaturated fatty acids present in it. Although, the oil has a strong and unpleasant taste, it is used in for the manufacturing of cosmetics, medicines, soaps, textiles, massage oils and many other products. The many therapeutic and medicinal uses of castor oil include:
1.Aids in relieving rheumatic pain.
The Ricinoleic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, and many other fatty acids that are present in castor oil make it very effective in the treatment of rheumatism, gout,Â’ and arthritis. The oil easily penetrates through the skin and provides relief in different kinds of pains.
2.Helps in Birth Control.
Due to the presence of a toxin known as Ricin (a protein) castor oil acts as germicidal when it is administered in low quantities. This property of castor oil makes it useful as a spermicidal and is used in the manufacturing of spermicidal gels, lotions etc. when higher dosages of this oil is administered in pregnant women, it can also lead to abortions.
3.Helps in treating menstrual disorders.
Ricinoleic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid present in castor oil, helps to open menstruation in case of painful and delayed menstruations. The oil is also beneficial in relieving pain during menstruations.
4.Takes care of the skin.
Due to the presence of Undecylenic Acid in castor oil, it acts as a germicidal and disinfectant. It is thus useful in the treatment of skin diseases and ulcers, especially those that are caused by bacterial and fungal infections.
5.Supports lactation in nursing mothers.
Castor oil supports the process of lactation in nursing mothers. Apart from easing and increasing the flow of breast milk, this oil also increases the quantity of milk released from the breast at one time. This is because of the presence of fatty acids in castor oil. However, the cold-compressed form of the oil should be consumed in low doses in order to avoid its unfavorable effects on the infant.
6.Helps to treat constipation.
Castor oil acts as a laxative and thus helps in the treatment of digestive disorders like constipation. It also benefits the people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
Apart from all the above, castor oil is used as an efficient purgative. The Ricinoleic acid present in it makes it anti inflammatory in nature. Due to the presence of compounds like Ricinoleic acid and Ricin this oil is anti-viral and germicidal in nature. It is therefore used for manufacturing medicines for patients suffering with HIV positive.
