Before the haircare community appreciated the versatility of castor oil, it was solely used for healing scars, constipation, and stomach ache. Fortunately today, its life-changing hair benefits are accepted. Where does castor oil come from? The bean of the castor plant produces a yellowish oil, mostly cultivated in Ethiopia, east Africa. Unique among most oils, pure castor oil is a powerful mix of fatty acids, such as ricinoleic (retains moisture and prevents dryness), proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants. This yellowish oil is akin to the holy grail for the hair growth community.

What are the benefits of Castor Oil on Afro Hair?

•  It promotes hair growth and maximises hair retention. Ricinoleic fatty acid and other antioxidants enhance the scalp hair follicle health. It’s also rich in vitamin E, which deeply nourishes the hair and scalp.
• It treats dandruff. Castor oil has anti-bacterial and antiviral properties that help treat inflammation and scalp infections like bacteria induced dandruff, as it contains many hair-loving compounds such as ricinoleic acid, and Vitamin E that nourishes and moisturizes the scalp reducing flakiness and preventing itchiness.
• It softens hair and promotes moisture retention. Castor oil is a natural humectant (helps lock in moisture) and hair lubricant, increasing flexibility and preventing dryness. The omega fatty acids help soften and thicken hair by increasing scalp blood circulation.
• It promotes a healthy lustrous hair, as study has shown.
• It reduces premature hair greying, through regular application.

How to use the Castor Oil on Afro Hair?

1. Massage directly onto hair for 15-20 minutes for a lustrous and smooth finish; wash it off with shampoo afterwards. Using a conditioner, however, is unnecessary as the oil’s vitamins and antioxidants nourish and moisturize, serving as a natural conditioner.

2. You can combine it with other oils to soften its thick and sticky consistency and lighten its pungent smell, which some hardly tolerate. These oils include coconut, almond, or any other hair growth oils. Mix castor oil with other oils to get multiple benefits.

3. Castor oil treats certain hair maladies like dandruff, in combination with other ingredients.

4. Use only refined castor oil, even though it’s highly safe and versatile.