Is Castor Oil Good For Hair Growth?

In the world of natural hair care, it’s not uncommon to hear about various oils and their purported benefits. From coconut oil to olive oil, it seems like there’s an oil for every hair concern out there. However, there’s one oil in particular that has become a household name for its potential to boost hair growth: castor oil.

What is Castor Oil?

Derived from castor beans, castor oil is a vegetable oil that’s rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. It’s been widely used in hair products and has gained a reputation for boosting hair growth and alleviating hair conditions like traction aloepicia.

It also features as a common ingredient in natural remedies for common conditions such as constipation.

Castor oil is safe for anyone looking to nourish their hair; however, the oil may not be safe for pregnant women. Anecdotal evidence suggests that castor oil can induce labor.

Castor Oil and Hair Growth

While there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that castor oil directly promotes hair growth, there is a lot of anecdotal evidence to suggest that it can create a healthier environment on the scalp that encourages hair growth.

The oil contains ricinoleic acid which increases scalp blood flow, promoting healthier hair and growth. Some of it’s other hair-enhancing benefits include:

1. Nourishes and strengthens strands: Castor oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which are essential for promoting hair health. It also helps prevent breakage and encourages length retention, making it an excellent addition to any natural hair routine.
2. Has antimicrobial properties: Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which has antimicrobial properties. This makes the oil effective in fighting off bacterial or fungal overgrowth on the scalp, preventing hair loss and scalp infections.
3. Aids in anti-flaking: Castor oil can benefit those who struggle with flaking as a result of a dry scalp. It can help moisturize the scalp and reduce dandruff.
4. Locks in moisture and shine: Castor oil is a humectant, which means it’s an excellent means of locking in moisture and shine. In this way, your hair is kept moisturized and is more likely to grow at a healthier rate.

Castor oil’s benefits aren’t limited to the hair on your head. There’s anecdotal evidence to support the idea that it can also reap growth benefits for eyebrows and lashes. Using the oil can help your lashes and brows appear longer and fuller.

How To Use Castor Oil For Hair

If you’re interested in incorporating castor oil into your hair routine, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, apply it sparingly; it’s an oil, and a little goes a long way. You can use it as a pre-shampoo treatment (pre-poo), or directly apply it to your hair and scalp after moisturizing.

An even easier way to incorporate it is by using products that contain castor oil, such as our Livara Emerald Hair Food, Sapphire Shampoo Bar, and Tanzanite Hair Oil.

Takeaway

While there’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that castor oil can make your hair grow faster and longer, there are certainly potential benefits to using it for healthy, nourished hair. Give it a try and see how it works for you.

Have you tried castor oil before? Let us know in the comments if it worked for you!