By the Edge Naturale Editorial Team · Medically reviewed by Shelia Davis, Edge Naturale Medical Team · Last updated June 2026
What is Castor Oil?
Castor Oil is the oil produced by the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. Castor oil has been used since the time of ancient Egyptians as a healing, moisturizing, and powerful detoxifying oil both internally and topically. When used topically or as an ingredient in skin and hair care products, this rich, healing oil is a deeply nourishing oil that helps seal in moisture and protect hair from follicle to cuticle.
What Does Castor Oil Do?
Castor oil works as a deep moisturizer by acting as a humectant. Humectants seal in natural moisture and create a barrier to prevent moisture loss. Castor oil promotes the health of the hair and scalp, working as a natural conditioner that lubricates the hair and prevents breakage. When applied to the scalp, it is also a healing anti-inflammatory agent to help treat and prevent flaking from seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Major Health Benefits:
• Naturally anti-inflammatory to calm irritation and redness on skin and scalp
• Fatty acids dilate blood vessels to help increase circulation and nutrients to the hair and scalp
• Smooths and conditions hair cuticles to combat frizz
• Adds shine and boosts elasticity in natural hair
• Deeply moisturizes and conditions by sealing in natural moisture
Bottom Line:
Though castor oil has not been scientifically proven to cause hair growth, the natural humectant and conditioning properties of this rich oil have been proven effective to improve the health of hair follicles. Castor oil helps to prevent hair loss by protecting hair from breakage and deeply nourish the scalp to promote the natural growth of fuller, healthier hair.
