Castor oil, derived from the bean and seeds of the castor plant, has been used for many years as a laxative, a lubricant and in skin and hair care products. This naturally produced vegetable oil has many uses, including treating dry scalp, adding shine and conditioning dry hair. When used for hair care, castor oil should be applied topically, directly to the hair or scalp.
Proper Care of African-American Hair
According to a manual produced by the state of Connecticut, a light and all-natural oil such as castor oil should be applied to African-American babies' hair following weekly washing and brushing. Castor oil is a popular ingredient in hair products formulated for African-American and ethnic hair types because it is known for its ability to moisturize the hair, combating the natural dryness of these hair types.
Treatment of Dry Scalp or Dandruff
"The Connecticut Ethnic Hair and Skin Care Manual" advises those with dry scalp or dandruff to apply castor oil directly onto the dry areas prior to washing or shampooing the hair. Castor oil contains fungicidal, germicidal and insecticidal properties, making it an effective treatment for many causes of dandruff. In addition, castor oil hair treatments seal in moisture when applied to either the hair or the scalp, making it an excellent scalp moisturizer.
In Shampoo and Conditioner
Castor oil is a common ingredient in all-natural and homemade shampoo and hair conditioning products. The beauty site Girltalks.org provides a recipe for homemade hair conditioners containing castor oil, intended to add volume to the hair. Castor oil contains a high concentration of fatty acids to retain moisture and nourish the hair. Use shampoo or conditioner containing castor oil if your hair is limp, lifeless or dry.
For Added Shine
According to researchers studying the light reflected from hair samples, castor oil hair treatments were found to increase the luster of hair. Hairfinder.com explains that this effect is caused by castor oil's ability to coat the hair shaft, sealing in moisture and creating a silkier surface. Dull hair may benefit from the use of castor oil hair treatments, either in conditioners or in the form of a hot oil treatment. For optimum shine, use a hot oil treatment once per month or moisturizing treatments weekly. However, more frequent use than this, cautions Hairfinder.com, can result in an oily scalp.
For Longer Eyelashes or Faster Hair Growth
Many people have long believed in castor oil as a folk remedy to increase the speed of eyelash growth. However, according to the scientists at The Beauty Brains, there have been no scientific studies to prove that castor oil makes your eyelashes grow. Many people also believe in castor oil as a treatment for hair loss or baldness. Again, however, there is little scientific evidence to support this use of castor oil. While castor oil may make your hair silkier or shinier, it will not make it grow faster.
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