For many of us, castor oil conjures up unsavory childhood memories—thick, bitter, and taken to “get things moving.” But lately, this traditional supplement is making a modern comeback. Fueled by TikTok trends, wellness influencers, and a growing curiosity around holistic health, castor oil’s benefits and uses are being rediscovered, especially for health routines focused on detoxification and skin-care.
Castor oil is a powerful substance and not the right choice for everyone or every health concern. Let’s explore what it can and cannot do, and whether it could be right for you.
- ABOUT OUR EXPERTS: Cintara Bradley, N.D., a resident physician at Sonoran University in Tempe, AZ. Simran Malhotra, M.D., DipABLM C.H.W.C., is the founder of Wellness By LifestyleMD in Bethesda, MD. Melanie Keller, ND, is the founder of Intuitive Edge Doctor.
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a plant-based oil derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It’s made by pressing castor beans to produce a thick, viscous liquid that’s long been recognized for its traditional use as a natural laxative.
According to Cintara Bradley, N.D., resident physician at Sonoran University in Tempe, AZ, castor oil’s perks and uses go beyond digestive support, though. “Rich in flavonoids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and amino acids, castor oil is a nutrient-dense botanical with a wide range of topical benefits,” she says. “It may help support skin barrier function and offers potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, and liver-supportive properties.”
Why Castor Oil Is Trending Again
Recently, people have begun to get wise to castor oil’s health benefits and uses. Here’s what experts think about several trending applications.
Constipation Relief
What’s old is new again. Castor oil has been used as an oral laxative for thousands of years, with origins in ancient Egypt. While its taste and texture may not be for everyone, it remains one of the few supplements FDA-approved for use as an oral stimulant laxative to relieve occasional constipation, according to Simran Malhotra, M.D., DipABLM C.H.W.C., founder of Wellness By LifestyleMD in Bethesda, MD.
Read More: 7 Natural Ways to Relieve Constipation
Malhotra notes that common side effects can include nausea, cramping, and diarrhea, which is why castor oil should be used with care—especially in children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
If you’re considering it for digestive support, start slow. “Just because it works doesn’t mean it’s a good fit for everyone,” says Melanie Keller, ND, founder of Intuitive Edge Doctor. “It’s too aggressive for many, especially if you’re dealing with chronic GI issues.”
Hair and Scalp Support
Social media has cast castor oil as a go-to for hair health, often featured in DIY serums and scalp treatments. The science is limited, but some practitioners see value in its traditional use. “There’s a long history and plenty of anecdotal support for castor oil as a nourishing treatment for the scalp,” says Keller. She notes that it may help improve circulation to the scalp and support follicle health. “I often pair it with fascia-sculpting tools on the scalp and hairline, which can help promote microcirculation and revitalize the area,” she explains.
Lash and Brow Support
Can castor oil help enhance the look of your lashes and brows? Possibly—but the research isn’t conclusive. “Most of the available studies, including a 2022 review on hair in people of color, offer limited evidence around its effectiveness for lash and brow growth,” says Malhotra.
Read More: All the Ways I Use Castor Oil in My Beauty Routine
That said, some experts have observed promising results in practice. “While not extensively studied, I’ve consistently seen improvement with regular application,” says Keller. “When applied carefully, castor oil helps keep lashes and brows hydrated and more resilient. It may help reduce breakage and support a fuller appearance over time.”
If you’re interested in trying it, consult with a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist to learn the proper technique and dosage for safe use.
Dry Skin Relief
Castor oil is one of many plant-based oils known for their moisturizing benefits. A 2022 study reported that the oil’s fatty acids could enhance skin’s smoothness and softness, as well as adding hydration. “Castor oil is both emollient and occlusive—meaning it softens while locking in moisture,” Keller says.
Just note that you won’t want to slather your skin with the stuff. A little goes a long way, Keller says. And, according to Bradley, it’s always best to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for sensitivity. “If no irritation occurs, a few drops can be applied to the face two to three times per week to support skin health and improve appearance. Discontinue use immediately if any irritation develops.”
The Bottom Line
Castor oil may be useful as an OTC approach to relieving constipation and softening your skin, but as a tool for healthy hair, scalp, lashes, and brows, the evidence is still limited. Because of its history as a traditional stimulant for digestion and uterine activity, castor oil should not be used during pregnancy unless supervised by a healthcare professional, according to Bradley. However, this activity also raises concerns during pregnancy, which is why castor oil should be avoided in those who are pregnant unless under medical supervision.