Let’s start with castor oil.
Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. This oil has garnered attention for its myriad benefits in skincare and haircare. Extracted through a meticulous process, this natural oil boasts of a rich array of healthy compounds that give it its remarkable properties. Let’s delve into the topic of castor oil a little more – from its extraction to its regular applications and the plethora of benefits it offers for both skin and hair.
Extraction Process:
Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor plant, also known as Ricinus communis. The extraction process involves cold pressing the seeds to preserve its nutrient-rich composition. This method ensures that the oil retains its natural potency, including essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Compounds in Castor Oil:
Castor oil is abundant in ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (the main component of castor oil). Other compounds include oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and various antioxidants, such as vitamin E. These compounds work in tandem to nourish, moisturize, and protect the skin and hair. (People use the oil as a natural laxative, for temporary constipation, and as biologic for acne, but there is some evidence to suggest that castor oil may stop the itching of psoriasis and may have minimal or no side effects.)
Regular Uses and Benefits for Skin and Hair:
Skin Benefits:
- Moisturization: Castor oil deeply penetrates the skin, thereby locking in moisture and preventing dryness.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Ricinoleic acid has shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This compound makes castor oil effective in soothing irritated skin.
- Antimicrobial properties: Its antimicrobial properties can help combat acne-causing bacteria, reducing skin breakouts and inflammation.
- Scar Reduction: Regular application of castor oil may aid in fading scars and promoting skin regeneration.
- Anti-aging properties: Vitamin E and other antioxidants present in castor oil help fight free radicals, thereby reducing signs of aging including wrinkles and fine lines.
Hair Benefits:
- Hair Growth: Massaging castor oil into the scalp stimulates blood circulation, which promotes hair growth.
- Antifungal properties: It has antifungal properties that can help deal with scalp conditions including dandruff and fungal infections.
- Emollient properties: Castor oil’s rich emollient properties help condition and nourish hair, thus making it smoother and more manageable.
- Split End Repair: Applying castor oil to hair ends can help repair split ends and prevent further damage.
- Natural Shine: Regular use of castor oil adds luster to hair, enhancing its natural shine and vitality.
Castor oil truly is nature’s gift, giving a plethora of benefits for both skin and hair. This elixir has earned its place as a staple in skincare and haircare regimens. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology published research that highlights the various uses of castor oil. [1]
Now, let’s focus on Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the skin. Its impact extends far beyond its physical manifestations, it affects the emotional well-being of those living with it. As the red, scaly patches emerge on the skin’s surface, individuals often find themselves dealing with a myriad of emotions, ranging from frustration and embarrassment to anxiety and depression. Here, we will focus more into the emotional issues of psoriasis, shedding light on the profound psychological toll it exacts on individuals.
The Emotional Journey of Psoriasis:
1. Frustration and Helplessness:
Psoriasis is unpredictable in nature, which can leave individuals feeling frustrated due to being helpless. Its flare-ups occur seemingly without reason and out of nowhere. And despite adhering to treatment regimens, some people may find their symptoms persisting, which exacerbates feelings of helplessness and powerlessness.
2. Embarrassment and Self-consciousness:
The visible nature of the psoriatic lesions can cause feelings of embarrassment and self-consciousness, particularly in parties and other social settings. People avoid going out altogether. Individuals may become overly self-conscious and may become reluctant to expose affected areas, leading to social withdrawal and avoidance of activities they once enjoyed. It may be a common inflammatory skin condition, but affects the psyche.
3. Anxiety and Stress:
Living with psoriasis can result in anxiety, as individuals worry over the perception of others. The stress of managing the chronic symptoms, along with concerns about worsening factors such as lifestyle choices and environmental triggers, can contribute to heightened anxiety levels.
4. Depression and Isolation:
The emotional burden of psoriasis can result in feelings of depression and isolation, as individuals try to cope with the psychological toll of their condition. The feeling of ‘why me’ can impact one’s mental wellbeing. Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness may arise, fuelled by the challenges of coping with a chronic illness.
Cultivating a network of understanding friends, family, and professionals can provide invaluable emotional support. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, and meditation can help individuals manage anxiety and promote overall well-being. Research by doctors on the topic has been published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 1995. [2] It is said that there are an estimated 7.5 million people in the United States alone who deal with psoriasis.
How To Use Castor Oil for Psoriasis
We unveil the step-by-step process for effectively harnessing the healing power of castor oil in managing psoriasis.
Patch Test:
Before using castor oil into your psoriasis skincare routine, conduct a patch test to look for any potential allergic reactions such as skin sensitivities. Apply a small amount of castor oil to a discreet area of skin and monitor for any adverse reactions over 24 hours.
Choose High-Quality Castor Oil:
Opt for cold-pressed, organic castor oil to ensure maximum potency and purity. Buy from reputed brands and check for authenticity. Cold-pressed extraction preserves the oil’s compounds, making it effective for skincare applications.
Dilution:
Castor oil is a viscous oil, which may be too concentrated for direct application to the skin, especially for individuals with sensitive or inflamed skin due to psoriasis. Dilute castor oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil to reduce its thickness and enhance spreadability.
Application Methods:
a. Topical Application:
- Gently cleanse the affected areas of skin with a mild cleanser and pat the area dry with a soft towel.
- Using a cotton ball or clean fingers, apply or pat the diluted castor oil to the affected areas. Make sure that the oil is applied comprehensively.
- Massage the oil into the skin using circular motions, allowing it to penetrate deeply for maximum benefit.
- Leave the oil on overnight for moisturization and healing. For daytime application, cover the treated areas with breathable clothing to prevent staining.
b. Castor Oil Packs:
- Castor oil packs involve saturating a piece of cloth with diluted castor oil and applying it to the affected skin.
- Place the castor oil-soaked cloth over the affected areas and cover with plastic wrap or a towel to retain heat and moisture.
- Leave the pack in place for 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the castor oil to penetrate deeply into the skin. Use this method 1-2 times per week for best results.
Consistency is Key:
Make use of castor oil in your psoriasis skincare routine consistently to experience its full benefits. Regular application over time can help soothe inflammation, reduce itchiness, and promote skin healing. People apply the oil before bed and allow it to absorb.
Monitor and Adjust:
Pay close attention to how your skin responds to castor oil treatment for psoriasis. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist.
DIY Recipes for Castor Oil for Psoriasis
Here are a few DIY recipes using castor oil for psoriasis:
Recipe #1 – Simple Castor Oil Blend:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or sweet almond oil (carrier oil)
Instructions:
- Mix the castor oil with the carrier oil in a small bowl.
- Apply the blend to the affected areas of skin and gently massage in circular motions.
- Spread the oil evenly.
- Leave it on overnight for maximum absorption and hydration.
- Repeat daily for best results.
Recipe #2 – Castor Oil and Essential Oil Balm:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 1 tablespoon of shea or cocoa butter
- 5-8 drops of lavender or frankincense essential oil (anti-inflammatory properties)
Instructions:
- Melt the shea butter or cocoa butter over low heat in a double boiler.
- Add castor oil and lavender essential oil to the melted butter.
- Stir well to combine and pour the mixture into a container.
- Allow it to cool and solidify before applying a small amount to affected areas as needed multiple times in a day.
Recipe #3 – Castor Oil and Aloe Vera Gel Gel:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel
- 3-4 drops of tea tree essential oil (antimicrobial properties)
Instructions:
- Combine castor oil, aloe vera gel, and tea tree essential oil in a bowl.
- Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Apply the gel to affected areas and gently massage till it is fully absorbed.
- Repeat 2-3 times daily for soothing relief from psoriasis symptoms.
These DIY recipes harness the moisturizing, antibacterial properties, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties of castor oil to provide relief from psoriasis symptoms. However, do remember to perform a patch test before using any new skincare product, to check for side effects and avoid risk of an allergic reaction. Reduce psoriasis and relieve the symptoms by applying the oil liberally to reduce inflammation.
Conclusion
Castor oil is a carrier oil extracted through the process of cold pressing from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. The oil has many health-related properties due to the presence of several compounds. It is extensively used in skin care and hair care. Psoriasis is a skin condition that manifests as red scaly skin. It causes emotional distress to the affected person.
Castor oil for psoriasis is useful for providing relief from the symptoms of psoriasis. It also helps moisturize and nourish the skin and help a person carry on with regular activities. Blends with castor oil for psoriasis can be formulated to enhance the effectiveness of the remedy. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, it is a relatively safe home remedy for people to try.
Source:
- Scarpa, A. and Guerci, A., 1982. Various uses of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis L.) a review. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 5(2), pp.117-137.
- Greaves, M.W. and Weinstein, G.D., 1995. Treatment of psoriasis. New England Journal of Medicine, 332(9), pp.581-589.