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Sharing an Article on Castor Oil from Dr. Mark Iwanicki

We love when our products are discussed among doctors, naturopaths, and everyone else in the health and wellness space. 

Here's what Dr. Mark Iwanicki had to say about Castor Oil! 

Castor oil, a therapeutic oil derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has been used for thousands of years in many diverse cultures and civilizations for its powerful medicinal and cosmetic qualities. Its rich history spans millennia, with notable mentions in ancient Egyptian manuscripts, the Old testament and Ayurvedic texts from India.

Castor oil has been studied to:

  • Increase hair growth when applied topically to the scalp or in eye lashes

  • Help with inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema when massaged in topically over affected areas

  • Support liver detox and lymphatic drainage when used in Castor oil packs

  • Soothe the gut and aid in constipation and IBS symptom relief in Castor oil packs

  • Lower inflammation when used orally in oil pulling regiments (Swished in mouth for 5 minutes and then spit out) 

  • Support anti-aging by decreasing fine lines when applied around the eyes and forehead

 

HAIR GROWTH POTENTIAL OF CASTOR OIL:

In addition to its many topical skin uses, Castor oil has recently emerged as a potential elixir for promoting hair growth. High in essential nutrients and antioxidants, omega-6 fatty acids, and most notably ricinoleic acid, castor oil's hair growing properties are beginning to be validated in the scientific arena.

 

SKIN HEALTH: HARNESSING THE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY POWER OF CASTOR OIL:

Castor oil has remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. A recent mouse study delved into the active ingredient of castor oil, ricinoleic acid, showcasing its superior anti-inflammatory efficacy compared to capsaicin, a well-known, powerful, natural anti-inflammatory. While no direct human trials have been conducted on the usage of castor oil in inflammatory skin conditions it stands to reason that its anti-inflammatory effects would be helpful here. In addition to skin health this anti-inflammatory ability positions castor oil as a potential ally against many other diseases also characterized by inflammation, a category encompassing the majority of chronic diseases.

 

LIVER AND LYMPHATIC DETOX:

The versatility of castor oil extends its influence to liver health, where its deep-penetrating properties come into play. Applied as a castor oil pack over the  liver area, it can enhance blood circulation, stimulate lymphatic flow, and support the body's natural detoxification processes. The anti-inflammatory calming effect on liver inflammation contributes to its detoxification support. To create a pack you place a small amount of castor oil on an organic cloth and place that over the area of the liver on the right side of the abdomen overnight. While you sleep the oil is absorbed and penetrates deep into the lymphatics over the liver. This is said to calm inflammation in the liver and support its detoxing functions overnight. In Chinese medicine the liver is most active from 1-3am so using castor oil packs overnight is giving the liver the support it needs when it needs it most.

 

SOOTHING THE GUT: A CALMING TOUCH FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH:

The application of castor oil packs over the stomach and intestines extends the influence of castor oil to gut health as well. Applying castor oil packs directly over the center of the abdomen lowers inflammation and soothes the gut, providing relief for various digestive concerns. While oral consumption of castor oil is known to aid in constipation and increasing bowel movements, research reveals that topical use as a pack can also alleviate constipation symptoms just as effectively. A study conducted on elderly patients in Turkey found significant improvement in constipation symptoms for 80% of participants who applied castor oil packs to their abdomens before bed.


ORAL HEALTH: A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON OIL PULLING:

Delving into traditional Ayurvedic practices, castor oil emerges as a unique candidate for oil pulling—a technique whereby a small amount of oil is swished in the mouth for 5-15 minutes aimed at maintaining optimal oral health. Traditionally performed with sesame or coconut oil, oil pulling with castor oil offers heightened anti-inflammatory and penetrating properties. Applied this way castor oil can most effectively lower inflammation in the gums and support gum health compared to other oils. Clinical trials have also shown that consistent oil pulling with castor oil can also reduce the number of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth over time. 

 

ANTI-AGING PROPERTIES: NURTURING SKIN WITH CASTOR OIL:

While direct evidence may be lacking, the proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of castor oil position it as a compelling candidate for anti-aging skincare. Anecdotal evidence abounds, with many attesting to its efficacy as an anti-wrinkle serum. A few drops applied around the eyes before bedtime can reduce inflammation and offer robust antioxidant support to the delicate skin cells.

 

We are currently awaiting our Re-Stock on our Organic Castor Oil.

 

When it's back in stock we will be sure to send an email!

 

 

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