Castor Carrier Oil

Thick • Nourishing • Strengthening

Castor Oil is a rich, thick, and deeply moisturizing carrier oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. Known for its powerful emollient and conditioning properties, it’s a favorite in hair, lash, and skin care. Its naturally high ricinoleic acid content makes it excellent for soothing dry skin, supporting hair growth, and enhancing natural beauty remedies.

Benefits & Uses:
• Deeply hydrates dry or damaged skin
• Promotes thicker hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes
• Nourishes brittle nails and dry cuticles
• Soothes inflammation, chapped skin, and irritation
• Great for overnight oil packs (e.g. castor oil compresses)
• Adds richness and viscosity to balms and salves
• Natural remedy to support lymphatic circulation when used in abdominal compresses

Properties:
Common Name: Castor Oil
Botanical Name: Ricinus communis
Extraction Method: Cold pressed
Plant Part: Castor bean (seed)
Origin: India, Africa, USA
Color: Pale yellow to golden
Consistency: Very thick and sticky
Absorption: Slow—forms a protective barrier on the skin
Aroma: Mild, slightly earthy or nutty scent


Helpful Tips:
• Due to its thickness, blend with lighter oils (e.g., Jojoba or Almond) for easier application
• Ideal for overnight use on dry heels, hands, and scalp
• Use as a base for DIY lash or brow serum (apply with clean mascara wand)
• Warm slightly before use in massage or compress treatments
• Store in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed; shelf life is 1–2 years

DIY Recipes:

Hair & Scalp Growth Oil
1 tbsp Castor Oil
1 tbsp Jojoba Oil
5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
3 drops Lavender Essential Oil
Directions: Massage into scalp 2–3 times/week, leave for 30 min or overnight

Lash & Brow Serum
1 tsp Castor Oil
1 tsp Sweet Almond Oil
Optional: 1 drop Vitamin E Oil
Directions: Apply with a clean wand before bedtime

Hydrating Body Balm
1 tbsp Castor Oil
2 tbsp Coconut Oil
1 tbsp Shea Butter
10 drops Ylang Ylang or Frankincense Essential Oil
Directions: Melt and mix, then cool to form a balm. Use on dry elbows, heels, or hands.

Castor Oil Pack
Soak flannel in warm Castor Oil
Place over abdomen or sore joints
Cover with plastic wrap and apply heat (heating pad or hot water bottle)
Directions: Use for 30–60 minutes for detox and relaxation support

Carrier Oil Safety Guidelines:
Carrier oils are natural, plant-based oils used to dilute essential oils and help safely deliver them to the skin. While generally safe and gentle, it’s important to follow a few guidelines to ensure best results and avoid skin reactions.

General Safety Tips:
• Patch Test First: Always test a small amount of any carrier oil on your inner forearm or wrist before widespread use—especially for sensitive skin.
• Watch for Allergies: Those with nut allergies should be cautious with nut-based oils like Sweet Almond or Hazelnut. Consider alternatives like Grapeseed, Jojoba, or Sunflower Oil.
• Store Properly: Keep carrier oils in a cool, dark place, tightly sealed. Many are prone to oxidation and can go rancid if exposed to heat, light, or air.
• Use Clean Tools: Always use clean hands, utensils, or droppers when handling oils to avoid contamination.

When to Discard Carrier Oils:
• Off or rancid smell (sharp, sour, or “crayon-like”)
• Cloudy or thickened appearance (except Coconut Oil in cold temps)
• Change in color or separation


Best Practices:
• Choose cold-pressed, unrefined oils for maximum skin benefits
• Label homemade blends with date and ingredients
• Use amber or cobalt glass bottles to reduce light exposure
• Refrigerate oils if not used regularly, especially those prone to oxidation


Storage Tips:
• Keep oils in dark glass bottles (amber or cobalt)
• Store in a cool, dark, and dry location
• Always tightly seal after each use
• For fragile oils (like Rosehip or Grapeseed), refrigerate to extend life
• Label with purchase or open date


Dilution Guidelines (by Age & Sensitivity):

Shelf Life of Popular Carrier Oils: