Certified Organic Castor Oil:  More than a Home Remedy

 

There was a time that castor oil was the remedy of choice for just about every childhood digestive problem there was.  “Mom, I’ve got a sore tummy” evinced an immediate reaching for the castor oil bottle that brings back childhood memories for many people, not many of them pleasant!

 

However, in addition to its therapeutic effect on the small intestine, castor oil can be used for skin care, and is a component of many commercial skin care preparations – one of the more useful ones alongside the many synthetic chemicals that such products contain.  It can be used as it comes to treat burns, cuts, abrasions and sunburn.  It is also a useful treatment for several skin conditions, including acne. Although this can be caused by oily skin, castor oil can actually prevent your skin from becoming excessively oily.

 

The oil has a low molecular weight that enables it to penetrate into the lower levels of your skin.  It contains isostearate succinate, a mixture of succinic acid esters that is used as a skin conditioner in commercial products such as lipsticks and lip balm.  It also used in shampoos, and its ricinoleic acid content also renders it an effective anti-inflammatory for conditions such as acne and other skin eruptions.  

 

Like many oils used in skin care, castor oil contains a high antioxidant content, and can be used to protect the skin from the damaging effects of the ultra-violet component of strong sunlight. UV light generates small oxidizing molecules known as free radicals that can very rapidly destroy skin cells and lead to an appearance of premature aging.  The antioxidants in castor can destroy these free radicals that are also produced by exposure to traffic and industrial fumes and tobacco smoke.

 

It also absorbs moisture, and acts as a humectant, helping your skin to remain soft and supple.  Unlike many other oils, castor does not make your skin oily and can easily be washed off with soap and water. Some oils can leave you feeling a bit sticky, but not this:  your skin will feel silky and smooth.

 

Because your skin is kept nice and moist, you are less likely to develop wrinkles that are caused largely by dry skin. It also helps your blood to circulate and keep your skin well supplied with oxygen and the nutrients needed to keep it healthy and glowing.

 

If you combine applications of castor oil to your skin with a good diet, low in sugary foods and fats, and high in antioxidants available from colourful fruits and vegetables, and combine that with regular exercise, there is no reason why your skin should retain a fresh youthful look while those around you are aging and developing wrinkles.