Continuing our theme of haircare this month we are talking about the many benefits of Castor Oil, a thick pale yellow vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus Communis). It has a long history of use for hair and skin due to its rich content of ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that provides anti-inflammatory and moisture-retaining properties.

Here are just a few of the many benefits of Castor Oil:-

• It is highly moisturising for skin and can help prevent and reduce fine lines. It is quite a viscous oil which can drag the skin, so we recommend adding it to your normal face moisturiser or face oil.
• It is nourishing for dry hair – Amanda loves to put it in to her hair overnight (just through the lengths and ends) and then wash it out in the morning. To make it easier to wash out add a little coconut oil at the same time.
• Style dry hair with a little castor oil to reduce frizz and flyaways.
• Dry, chapped lips feel instantly smoother and more supple with a coating of castor oil.
• Promote healthy eyelashes and eyebrows while encouraging growth by applying castor oil using a clean mascara wand or using the fingertips. 
• Adding a few drops to your body moisturiser is deeply hydrating for the skin, and it is particularly beneficial after dry skin body brushing to support the lymph system.
• Gently massage a little castor oil into the cuticles to reduce dry skin around the nail bed. Castor oil on the nails will help reinforce the nail structure reducing splitting and peeling.
• The anti-inflammatory benefit of castor oil means if used in massage it can relieve soreness related to joints and muscles.

This is why we all love Castor Oil and why it is a household essential, useful for so many things!

Lucia