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What is "Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil" and what is its utility?

What is "Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil" and what is its utility?

Thecastor oil is extracted from the Ricinus communis, a shrub native to tropical Africa. It is recognized by its palmate lobed leaves carried on long stems. Castor oil is used in various fields: in industry as a lubricant and fuel, or in medicine as a purgative. It is also included in the composition of skincare products.

Summary
Published November 5, 2021, updated on February 1, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min read

Everything you need to know about "Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil"?

Widespread in the tropical regions of India, China, and Brazil, the Ricinus communis belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Its seed is used to extract the castor oil found in skin, hair, and nail care products. The entire plant, including the seeds, contains ricin, which is toxic but can be eliminated through filtration. The fatty acid composition of castor oil is defined as follows:

  • Monounsaturated fatty acids (85% to 88% ricinoleic acid and 3% to 4% linoleic acid);

  • Polyunsaturated fatty acids (5% to 6% linoleic acid);

  • Saturated acids (1% to 2% palmitic acid and 1% to 2% stearic acid).

Castor oil is also rich in vitamin E.

What is the usefulness of castor oil?

Castor oil is used in skincare, haircare, and nail care. For hair, thecastor oil stimulates growth, strengthens it, and slows down hair loss thanks to the fatty acids it contains. It is also used on the eyelashes to nourish them and promote their growth.

In skincare,castor oil is a friend to dry skin, deeply hydrating and nourishing it. The ricinoleic acid it contains allows it to soothe discomfort associated with irritations and itchiness. Castor oil also helps to slow the onset of skin aging signs by promoting collagen production. This latter is essential in maintaining the skin's suppleness and elasticity.

Thecastor oil is also a friend to acne-prone skin, as it limits the proliferation of microorganisms on the epidermis.

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