Latest news with #castoroil
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Health
- Forbes
Castor Oil In Belly Button Trend? An Ayurvedic Practitioner Explains
Ayurvedic navel pulling massage getty Once a cult product known for its use in aiding hair growth through scalp massage, castor oil — a natural oil derived from castor seeds — is now sweeping the beauty-sphere with its many uses and purported benefits. The latest trend? Rubbing it all over your stomach, abdomen, lower back, and even adding drops of castor oil in belly buttons overnight has the internet abuzz. 'It's a derivative of a long-standing Ayurvedic practice known as Nabhi Chikitsa, also referred to as navel oiling, navel therapy, or navel pulling. It consists of castor oil massage in and around the belly button, and wrapping packs around the abdomen,' said Christina Miller, a certified Ayurvedic practitioner and founder of Thrive Ayurveda in Santa Barbara, California. 'Castor oil packs have been used for a variety of purposes ranging from improving digestion health, to relieving of menstrual cramping, anti-inflammation and overall skin health. Now it's somehow gotten into the mainstream and become trendy.' The ancient treatment has met the modern world. While some online users film their nighttime routines which involve microfiber-lined body wraps, Miller suggests rubbing organic, cold-pressed, hexane-free castor oil from an amber bottle onto the abdomen before bedtime. 'It's a fairly messy process. In the traditional method, you create a barrier whether it is a muslin cloth or even cellophane wrap to keep the oil as it's very viscous. It's a thicker oil than squalane or jojoba so it won't fully absorb into the skin. The transdermal application is effective for getting into the blood and tissues but it won't full absorb into the skin.' Users in biohacking communities online report using castor oil in their belly buttons before bedtime has improved a range of ailments: digestion, sleep disorders, constipation, menstrual cramping, and skin anti-aging — to name a few. A quick search on TikTok for 'Oiling Your Navel' reveals thousands of videos of women claiming weight loss, improved digestion, relief from endometriosis pains, and even improving the gut's microbiome. 'All of these tie to some degree to inflammation, the circulatory system, the endocrine system. There is not a ton of modern research on the method, but there is so much anecdotal and folk practice of it.' Explained Miller when asked about present scientific research into the practice. The Verdict While many users online report a variety of physical and mental improvements after consistent navel oiling and putting castor oil in belly buttons, little medical or scientific research has been done to back users' many claims. There are, however, medical studies which do show evidence of treating gastroenteric and gynecological diseases through navel oil massage.
Telegraph
5 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
The health benefits of old-fashioned castor oil
The internet is rife with self-proclaimed health experts who insist they have the answers to life's ailments – from taping your mouth shut for better sleep, to juice cleanses, and intermittent fasting for weight loss. Now, traditional remedies are back in vogue. Castor oil may not have the most glamorous reputation, but it's the hottest new trend on TikTok – with influencers touting its supposed stomach-flattening effects. The method? Rubbing castor oil into the belly button, in a process known as 'navel pulling'. In a TikTok video which now has over 7.5m views, Miranda Wilson, an aesthetic nurse practitioner, says she 'started doing castor oil navel pulling to help with digestion', and claims her stomach 'has never been so flat '. It's the latest in a long line of health claims linked to castor oil. Whilst it was used traditionally as a laxative, the humble plant oil has since undergone a renaissance and can supposedly strengthen hair, moisturise skin, and lengthen eyelashes. So, is navel pulling the cure to bloating – and which castor oil trends actually work? What is castor oil? Castor oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, explains Dr Dev Patel, skin doctor and founder of Perfect Skin Solutions. It is thick and a pale yellow colour. For centuries, it has been used in traditional medicine, and today appears in a variety of products. Its main active component is ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, which gives castor oil its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial powers. It can be bought in pure liquid form, in a pack (which can be applied to the skin), and in a variety of hair and skincare products. @ IYKYK #castoroil #navelpulling #digestion #tips #viral #fyp ♬ dźwięk oryginalny - Does navel pulling work? Dr Patel explains that applying castor oil to the navel is inspired by an ancient Ayurvedic belief that the belly button is a central energy point in the body, connected to multiple organs via nerve pathways. Social media users claim it helps digestion, reduces bloating, and can even alleviate period pain. However, navel pulling enthusiasts, look away now. Both our medical and nutritional experts agree this trend is a fictional fad. 'Putting castor oil into your navel seems like just another odd health myth based on no clinical evidence,' says Dr Frankie Phillips, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association. Whilst it's unlikely to do any harm, she says it seems to be, 'entirely pointless with no physiological benefits'. Dr Patel agrees. He says there is no robust scientific evidence to suggest that placing castor oil in the belly button has a direct effect on digestion. 'However, the act of massaging oil into the abdomen may indirectly support digestion by stimulating the vagus nerve, enhancing parasympathetic activity, or simply encouraging relaxation and awareness of the digestive tract,' he adds. So while it may have value as part of a self-care routine, the claimed digestive benefits remain anecdotal rather than evidence-based. Is castor oil an effective moisturiser? Castor oil is an excellent occlusive, Dr Patel says, which means it helps to lock moisture into the skin by forming a barrier. Its high viscosity can help those with very dry or cracked skin, whilst the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory properties which may help to soothe irritation. However, he warns those with acne-prone or oily skin to beware. Due to its thick texture, it can block hair follicles which could lead to more spots or – in extreme cases – folliculitis (infection of the follicles). Dr Patel says it's best used as part of a moisturising blend or for targeting dry areas, such as heels or elbows. Dr Sharon Wong, consultant dermatologist and hair specialist, agrees – and advises people not to apply pure castor oil directly to the skin as it can cause irritation and breakouts. A 2023 clinical trial involving 22 people found that creams containing castor oil appeared to reduce dark under-eye circles – suggesting it could be an effective alternative treatment. However, due to the limited sample size, the researchers said further trials were needed to confirm their findings. Does castor oil improve hair health? Many have claimed that castor oil is the key to hair growth, however there is no scientific evidence to suggest this is true, says Dr Wong. It's not all bad news for those who have been coating their locks, though, as she says the rich proteins and fatty acids in castor oil can moisturise and strengthen the body of hair. Dr Wong warns those using castor oil on their hair not to overdo it as excessive use, combined with infrequent washing, can result in scalp acne, hair follicles becoming clogged, and the worsening of issues such as dandruff and eczema. In rare cases, overuse of castor oil can lead to sudden matting of the hair, known as hair felting. She suggests using a thin coating of castor oil once a week as a conditioning and moisturising agent. 'Focus on application from the mid lengths to the tips of the hair and not the scalp', she says. Can castor oil lengthen eyelashes? This is a very popular claim, Dr Patel says, however unfortunately there's no strong clinical evidence to suggest that castor oil directly promotes eyelash or eyebrow growth. However, there are still some potential benefits for those who have been coating their eyelashes in oily serum. Dr Patel says 'it can improve the appearance and condition of lashes by coating them and reducing breakage due to dryness or environmental damage'. It's best to view castor oil as a conditioning agent, rather than a hair-growth stimulant, he concludes. Is castor oil a useful laxative? In one of its most popular and traditional uses, castor oil is a popular laxative, historically used for short-term constipation relief. The ricinoleic acid is 'released in the small intestine and stimulates intestinal muscle contractions, typically resulting in a bowel movement within two to six hours,' Dr Patel says. In the US, castor oil is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter stimulant laxative for occasional use, however this is not the case in the UK. The MHRA (UK's equivalent to the FDA) can only approve medicine and medical devices if they are marketed as such. However, in the UK, castor oil is typically sold and labelled as a cosmetic or massage oil – not a medicinal product – meaning people use it informally for its laxative effects, Dr Patel explains. It's perfectly safe for most people to take castor oil by mouth for constipation relief, says Dr Tony Fincham, a GP at Benenden Hospital. Adults can take a single dose of one to four tablespoons a day, but it should only be used for short-term relief. It's not suitable for everyone though, Dr Patel warns. Pregnant women, children under 12, people with inflammatory bowel disease, and individuals on certain medications such as steroids, should not use it without consulting a medical professional. Can castor oil heal wounds? In its role as a wound healer, castor oil has traditionally thrived. Ricinoleic acid has strong anti-inflammatory properties and castor oil-based ointments, often made in combination with other ingredients, have been used over the years to improve healing and reduce pain, Dr Patel says. A 2020 study in the Pharmacognosy Magazine highlighted castor oil's anti-inflammatory potential, as well as its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, Dr Fincham says that whilst some plasters used to contain castor oil, this is no longer the case as there was found to be a risk of irritation or allergic reaction. Therefore castor oil should only be used to treat wounds if recommended by a doctor, and under professional guidance. Expert verdict: What's the best use for castor oil? Dr Fincham and Dr Patel both agree that castor oil is best used for moisturising and conditioning – 'particularly for dry skin, brittle lashes, eyebrows, or hair'. It's also a great choice for cuticles, dry heels, and patchy rough areas, Dr Patel says. But he urges those with sensitive or acne-prone skin to use with caution or in a diluted form. 'As a natural, multi-purpose ingredient, it can be a valuable addition to your skincare cabinet,' he concludes, 'But it's not a miracle oil, and I would say its effects are mostly supportive rather than transformative.'
News24
23-07-2025
- Health
- News24
Cold weather hair SOS: Your complete guide to winter hydration
Whether you're trying to prevent damage or already battling with a thinning hairline. These tips will see you into spring and summer with healthier hair The cooler temperatures bring drier weather for those of us in the inland provinces, or wet weather if living in some coastal areas, but both scenarios leave us battling with dry hair. You need to make sure your hair is hydrated and moisturised, and these tips will see you through the cold months. UP THE MOISTURE Your edges and hairline in particular are at even more risk to the harsh winter weather and can become extremely dry. Cut back on the shampoo that can dry out your hair even more, and rather wash your hair weekly with conditioner. Your hair and scalp will remain clean and moisturised. Use a moisturising deep conditioner at least once a week to help repair your hairline and retain moisture, and apply a water-based moisturiser to your hair and hairline twice a day to keep your hair hydrated. Braid sprays containing glycerine and oil are an easy and excellent choice to keep your hair moist and soft. Read more | Essential winter care tips for natural hair ADD OIL Hair growth tends to slow down during the winter months, so if you're looking to gain a few centimetres, massage natural oils into your hairline for a few minutes twice a day. Use oils such as castor and coconut around the edges of your hairline to help increase blood flow and keep your hair hydrated. Castor oil also helps to thicken hair, which is a great help if your hairline is suffering. Adding an oil will also help to seal in the extra moisture you have been applying regularly. SILK FOR YOUR HAIR Your cotton pillowcase may feel warm and soft, but it's a nightmare for your hair, especially in winter, as cotton soaks up moisture. It's best to sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase all year around, but make sure you do this in winter to keep your hair from breaking and losing moisture. A satin or silk scarf is also an option for evenings. Be careful, too, of loose hair brushing up against cotton jackets and coats as it could cause split ends. Read more | 4 Essential tips for long-lasting braided styles LESS MANIPULATION Constant styling contributes to a weak hairline, and your hair is at its most fragile during the colder season. Avoid this by wearing easier styles such as braids, twists, weaves and wigs. These styles also keep the hair protected from the harsh winter elements. But never add extensions to a broken hairline as it will add stress, and your hair underneath will still require regular moisture and conditioning. Always avoid overly tight braiding along your hairline. If you are feeling too much tension, that means your hair is styled too tightly. You may not notice problems straight away, but over time your strands will weaken and break. Be sure to remove these hairstyles after four to six weeks, and give your hair a break in between. Don't add to the extreme elements by applying harsh, excessive heat on delicate edges. Always use a heat protectant styling product and turn down the heat on your hairdryer, flat iron or other tools. This may mean drying your hair will take longer, but there will be less heat damage. However, if your hairline is already damaged, it's best to avoid heat styling.
Daily Mail
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Montana Brown reveals the bizarre health routine she swears by to 'aid digestion and reduce inflammation'
Montana Brown has revealed her bizarre health routine she swears by in an Instagram video on Friday. The former Love Island star, 29, said she uses a caster oil pack every night before bed to aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Sharing a video of herself removing the pack, Montana flashed her jaw-dropping abs. Montana captioned the post: 'Why I use a castor oil pack every night before bed? 'aids digestion, keeps my skin hydrated overnight to help with excess skin postpartum, cheap!, supports lymphatic drainage, reduces inflammation'. Montana is not the first celebrity to use the oil. In March 2021, Dame Helen Mirren told her followers on Instagram: 'Things I oil. Not for its laxative properties, but for hair, skin, nails.' The former Love Island star said she uses a caster oil pack every night before bed to aid digestion and reduce inflammation Castor oil is widely known to be an excellent natural remedy for constipation, but can also be used to benefit your hair, skin, and face. And in September last year, Kelsey Parker claimed that castor oil had changed her life and was her 'new best friend'. Kelsey, who was married to Tom Parker from The Wanted, before he tragically lost his battle with brain cancer, raved: 'I want to talk about castor oil. 'I have this organic castor oil which has become my new best friend. I was recommended castor oil by 'The Skin Angel', but basically castor oil has changed my life in such a short period of time. 'I use the castor oil as a moisturiser because I am so dry. At the moment I'm looking all nice and shiny because this is what castor oil does. 'It also promotes hair growth, so your eyelashes will grow, you can put it on your eyebrows. Kelsey added: 'Also, it's an anti-inflammatory, it's also an antioxidant and its anti-fungal.' Earlier this year Montana - who is already a mum to Jude one - welcomed her second child, Miley, with her fiancé Mark O'Connor via a home birth. Earlier this year Montana opened up about the challenges of having a home birth when her baby daughter Miley was breech She opened up about the challenges of having a home birth when her baby daughter Miley was breech. Montana said she was advised by her NHS midwives to give birth in hospital but she insisted she wanted to follow her head and heart and stay at home. The reality star enlisted the help of a private doula for her home birth, who assured her both she and her daughter were safe. Montana shared that her home birth was 'magical' but she had felt really when her waters broke due to Miley being breech, with one of the baby's legs popping out first. However she thanked her 'rock' Mark, doula Emiliana and midwife Heather for relaxing her before Miley 'flew out' two pushes later.
CNN
13-07-2025
- Health
- CNN
11 of the best castor oils for hair growth and a healthy scalp
Castor oil for hair quick picks Organic pure castor oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Pre-shower scalp treatment: Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil No-rinse conditioning blend: Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil Helping to keep strands hydrated and soothe the scalp, castor oil is commonly found in many hair care products and standalone treatments. Rumors have swirled in online communities that castor oil, much like rosemary oil, not only helps hair look and feel healthier, but it can make it grow faster too. To help investigate these claims, we tapped board-certified dermatologists to better understand castor oil's benefits, how it works and whether it can truly help with hair growth. Keryòl Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, said you can use this richly textured oil as a deep conditioner to treat damaged hair. Harvested and hand-processed in Haiti, this oil can be used on the scalp, hair, skin and beard for adding extra moisture. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil Made with a combination of rosemary, mint, castor and other essential oils, this Mielle treatment helps boost circulation to the scalp, which Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, said helps stimulate hair follicles, aiding in hair growth and thickening. Though your results may vary for hair growth, this under-$10 oil is an affordable option for those curious to try castor oil for themselves. Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil Made with castor oil and ashwagandha, an antioxidant and adaptogen that's believed to lower stress hormones, this Fable & Mane oil is a favorite of Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, is also a fan, noting that the blend also contains dashmool — a combination of Indian herbs that help to calm the scalp. Nioxin Night Density Rescue Treatment Garshick recommends this clinically proven hair treatment for those looking to thicken their hair. It contains castor oil, along with a blend of antioxidants, biotin and hydrating panthenol. Use it as an overnight leave-in treatment and with consistent use, you should notice less shedding and hair fall. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density While you can use standalone castor oil, you'll see it formulated into other hair care products, like this serum from The Ordinary. The water-based formula is lightweight but packed with peptides, antioxidants, vitamins, humectants and conditioners that work to support overall scalp and hair health. In addition to castor oil, this blend also contains caffeine, which Garshick said aids in boosting the scalp's circulation. Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Farber likes this pure cold-pressed castor oil from Sky Organics, which is made for the scalp, hair and other uses. Beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw is also a fan of this organic castor oil and likes the eyelash serum kit that comes with applicators for the brows and lashes. ArtNaturals Organic Rosemary & Castor Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Massager Set This scalp set from ArtNaturals comes with a blend of castor and rosemary oils, and a scalp massager that Spearman said can help further enhance circulation to the head. Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil Suitable for all hair types, this silicone-free scalp oil is made to treat common scalp concerns like dryness and itchiness. You can use it one to two times a week as a pre-shower treatment, or if you have an extra-dry scalp, you can leave the oil on overnight and wash it out in the morning. Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil Infused with 13 oils, including castor, sea buckthorn, baobab, argan and sweet almond, this nourishing hair oil from Beyoncé's Cécred hair care line comes recommended by Camp for its ability to seal in moisture, ensuring hair stays hydrated, soft and flexible. Briogeo Curl Charisma Organic and Cold-Pressed 100% Castor Oil 'This cold-pressed castor oil contains humectants, vitamin E and omega fatty acids, which work together to keep the hair healthy and hydrated,' Garshick said. 'It can be used on the hair, as well as eyebrows and eyelashes.' Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil With a no-rinse application, this Carol's Daughter hair oil is made to be spread over the scalp after hair washing. The lightweight formula is gentle enough to use daily, and the nozzle-tip applicator makes it easy to apply the seven oil blend directly to the scalp. Unlike some oils that are composed mostly of fats, castor oil is rich in protein, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. 'As a result, it can be helpful for the skin, scalp and hair,' Garshick said. 'Castor oil provides hydration and conditions the hair since it's rich in ricinoleic acid and fatty acids, which serve as natural emollients for the hair.' Spearman added that the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help keep the scalp clean while the emollients in castor oil prevent dryness and improve hair texture. Despite all of its great features, there's no concrete clinical evidence to support castor oil's ability to grow hair. However, because of castor oil's antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can help to nourish the scalp and create a healthy environment for hair to grow, which is why Garshick said there are some anecdotal tales of people noticing an improvement in their hair after using it. Farber added that castor oil is also humectant, meaning it helps to reduce moisture loss that can lead to hair breakage. Though there are medications like minoxidil and finasteride that can help increase hair growth, some people prefer natural treatments like oils since they're more affordable, more accessible and made without synthetic chemicals. Though, Camp said you should see a board-certified dermatologist if you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life. After drying and detangling your hair, section it and apply castor oil to the scalp and hair using your finger or a small applicator. If you're new to castor oil, Farber recommends starting with a small amount of oil and leaving it on for only 15 to 20 minutes to prevent clogging pores around the hair follicles. Depending on the specific formulation and what your hair and scalp can tolerate, you can leave castor oil on for several hours or even overnight, according to Garshick. Spearman said some people prefer to leave the oil on overnight for better absorption into the scalp, but she recommends covering your hair with a towel or shower cap to protect your bedding. If you're applying oil during the day, Spearman said to leave it on for one to two hours in order to reap the benefits without risking irritation or buildup. 'The frequency of applying castor oil typically depends on your hair type, but usually applying one to two times per week is enough to benefit from its effects without causing excessive buildup,' Spearman said. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp, Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Joshua Zeichner. What is castor oil? What is castor oil? Castor oil is created by cold-pressing the seeds or beans of the castor plant, which is commonly found in regions of Africa, India and South America. 'Castor oil is loaded with ricinoleic acid, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage that causes collagen damage and wrinkles,' Zeichner said. 'It contains fatty acids [that] naturally have emollient benefits to hydrate and soothe the skin.' How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? Camp said you might notice softer, more hydrated or flexible hair after one to two weeks of using castor oil or castor oil-based hair care products. For hair growth, you should use castor oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Remember, hair grows slowly at around a half-inch per month. Results can also depend on hair type. Spearman said some people might see improvements in hair health and texture after just a few weeks, but more noticeable changes usually occur after around three to six months of consistent application. What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? Castor oil is generally well-tolerated by most people, but any topical treatment risks irritating the skin. 'There have been some allergic reactions to castor oil noted, which may lead to a chance of getting allergic dermatitis,' Garshick said. 'Overuse and improper hair washing of the castor oil may also lead to buildup, which may contribute to irritation and breakouts.' With this in mind, it's always a good idea to patch test some product on a small area of skin before using castor oil all over your scalp. You should also deeply wash your hair and scalp to make sure no oil is left behind post-treatment. Spearman said that if you have fine hair, you may want to be careful of thick oil formulations that can be more likely to clog pores and weigh hair down. What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? Overuse of castor oil can lead to clogged pores, greasy hair or scalp irritation, according to Spearman. She also said that in some cases, castor oil can lead to hair felting, where the hair becomes irreversibly tangled and matted. Other risks include redness, itching, rashes and allergic reactions. Camp also cautions that any oil-based product may exacerbate acne in those with oily or acne-prone skin. Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Spearman said it's common for people to use castor oil for eyebrow and beard hair, though you should patch test beforehand to check for signs of skin irritation. If you are applying castor oil to your eyebrows, you only need to use a small amount and should avoid any contact with the eyes or eye area. A Q-tip or clean brow spoolie can be helpful for getting a more precise application. For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how castor oil can benefit your hair and scalp.
