Castor Oil Benefits: 7 Health Claims Reviewed

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Castor oil is a type of vegetable oil that comes from the seeds of the castor or Ricinus communis plant. It’s thick in nature and has a clear to light-yellowish color. 

Castor oil and other parts of the castor plant have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Today, you will still hear claims about castor oil’s potential health benefits. While some castor oil benefits have stood the test of time, others don't hold up when we look at the evidence. 

What are the benefits of castor oil? 

Here’s a rundown of the current science on castor oil’s potential benefits.

1. Relieves constipation

Castor oil is most well-known as a way to relieve constipation. The FDA considers castor oil to be a generally safe and effective laxative. It has even been studied as a potential treatment to clean out the bowels before a colon cancer screening. 

But using castor oil as a laxative is not as common today. It can have a lot of side effects, such as stomach cramping and vomiting. And there are many other laxatives available — like sennosides — that are more effective and have fewer side effects. 

2. May induce labor

Some research suggests castor oil may be an effective way to start the labor process. But existing research on castor oil’s ability to induce labor may be too limited and flawed to say for sure whether it works. Scientists also suggest that the side effects may outweigh the potential benefits of castor oil. 

3. Supports skin health 

Castor oil may provide some general skin benefits, such as softening and moisturizing skin. Beyond that, it's unclear whether castor oil can help manage skin conditions. But researchers are looking into castor oil as a possible treatment for psoriasis, acne, and wound healing.

4. Boosts hair health

Some people use castor oil as a natural remedy for hair growth. But there is no evidence that using it leads to hair growth. That said, castor oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and can help create a healthy scalp microbiome for your hair follicles.

Castor oil has also been shown to help moisturize hair and improve luster or shine. But a note of caution: It may cause oil buildup on the scalp or irritate your skin. For example, if castor oil from your hair gets on your pillowcase, it could cause acne on your face. 

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What are some side effects of castor oil? 

Castor oil can have significant side effects when taken by mouth, most of which affect your digestive system. Some possible castor oil side effects include:

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach cramps

• Dizziness

• Dehydration

• Electrolyte imbalance (which can lead to confusion or sleepiness)

Who should not take castor oil? 

Castor oil is safe for most people. But it can cause unwanted side effects and reactions in others. People who should avoid taking castor oil include:

• Pregnant people

• People with electrolyte imbalances, such as those with kidney disease or who are taking certain medications

• People with inflammatory bowel disease

• Anyone with severe abdominal pain that could be caused by serious issues like appendicitis or bowel obstruction

How do you use castor oil? 

How you take castor oil depends on what you’re using it for. Castor oil can be taken by mouth or applied topically. 

By mouth

Castor oil for constipation is usually taken by mouth. The recommended dose for adults and children older than 12 years is 15 mL to 60 mL once daily. Lower doses are less likely to cause side effects. Castor oil tends to work pretty quickly. Generally, you can expect to have a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours after taking castor oil. 

Experts recommend limiting daily use to 1 week. Overuse can lead to serious side effects or complications. If you're taking any medications, talk to your healthcare provider before trying castor oil for constipation. 

When taken by mouth, 100% castor oil is recommended. This ensures the product is free of other chemicals. Since castor oil has an unpleasant taste, you can try mixing it with a cup of juice to mask the flavor. 

Topically

Castor oil can also be applied topically on the hair or skin. People may use it to make their hair shiny or moisturize their skin. For example, you could use a castor oil pack –– a piece of fabric that has been soaked in the oil –– and apply it directly to a dry, chapped patch of skin. 

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician in a variety of clinical settings. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

Edited by:

Alex Eastman, PhD, RN

Alex Eastman, PhD, RN, is a California-based registered nurse and staff medical editor at GoodRx, where he focuses on clinical updates and Latino health.

Reviewed by:

Farzon A. Nahvi, MD

Dr. Nahvi is an emergency medicine physician and author of “Code Gray: Death, Life, and Uncertainty in the ER.” He works clinically at Concord Hospital in Concord, New Hampshire, and is a clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. Prior to this, he worked as an ER physician and clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System, NYU Langone Health, NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, and the Manhattan VA. He is a graduate of Cornell University and NYU School of Medicine.

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