Introduction:
Castor oil, derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis, is a vegetable oil that is used in different preparations due to its medicinal properties. It is pale yellow in colour. The contents of castor oil include palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, ricinoleic acid, and linolenic acid. Major castor oil-producing countries are Brazil, India and China. India accounts for approximately 90% of the global castor oil export. Castor oil is considered important in the global chemical industry.
Therapeutic Uses of Castor Oil:
Castor oil contains different medicinal properties like:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Purgative (laxative)
- Expectorant
- Hepatoprotective
- Anti-cancer
- Antioxidant
- Contraceptive
Benefits of Castor Oil:
Benefits of castor oil for Treating Constipation:
- Castor oil functions as a laxative.
- It is used to relieve constipation.
- It can also be used to empty and prepare the bowel for surgery.
Benefits of Castor Oil for Hair:
Castor oil contains omega-6 fatty acids that can promote hair growth.
Benefits of Castor Oil for Joint Pain:
According to animal studies, applying castor oil to the skin might help in reducing pain and inflammation due to its ricinoleic acid content.
Benefits of Castor Oil for Inducing Labour:
- Castor oil can be used as a non-pharmacological method to induce labour in pregnant women.
- Using castor oil does not cause any maternal or fetal complications.
- Using castor oil is associated with a higher chance of labour initiation within 24 hours.
- Castor oil may also enhance uterine function by increasing prostaglandin synthesis.
How to Use Castor Oil?
- Castor oil is taken orally.
- Follow the medicine label’s instructions.
- A marked spoon can be used to measure each dose.
- It is essential to take medicines at regular doses and not more frequently than directed.
- Consult a paediatrician regarding the use of castor oil in children.
- You must contact an emergency room or poison control centre if you feel you’ve taken an excess of castor oil.
Your physician will prescribe you the appropriate form based on your individual needs.
Side Effects of Castor Oil:
- You should report allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue to a doctor as soon as possible.
- Side effects that generally do not require medical attention are diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. However, you must report to your health care professional if these side effects are bothersome or continue.
Precautions to Take With Castor Oil:
Castor oil is unsafe to use in the following medical conditions:
Pregnancy
Castor oil, in some cases, is used for the induction of labour. However, it should be avoided in all stages of pregnancy as it can result in premature contractions.
Abdominal Pathologies
Stimulant laxatives like castor oil should not be used when having problems related to the abdomen like gastrointestinal obstruction, perforation, inflammatory bowel disease, and appendicitis.
Electrolyte & Acid-base Imbalances
Regular monitoring must be done in case of electrolyte imbalances and acid-base disturbances. Imbalances might develop due to the elimination of water, electrolytes, and bicarbonates, and this may worsen with diarrhoea. The patient might present with confusion, sleepiness, weakness, and vomiting. These problems must be addressed as soon as possible as they can be potentially lethal. The doctor should also keep an eye on the patients for signs of laxative abuse.
Interactions With Other Drugs:
It is essential to keep in mind not to use castor oil with laxatives. Taking other laxatives with castor oil can lead to severe dehydration. It is advised to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) What is castor oil?
Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis.
2) In which places are the castor plant widely cultivated?
Major castor oil-producing countries are Brazil, India and China. India accounts for approximately 90% of the global castor oil export.
3) What are the side effects of castor oil?
Side effects to report to a doctor or health care professionals soon as possible are allergic reactions like skin rash, hives or itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or lips. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome) are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.
4) Is it safe to use castor oil during pregnancy?
Since castor oil affects smooth muscles, it is recommended not to use it during pregnancy, as this can result in premature contractions.
5) What side effects can occur due to the intake of castor beans?
Ricinus communis (castor oil plant) contains the toxin ricin. Seeds or beans swallowed whole with the hard outer shell intact usually prevent absorption of significant toxin, whereas purified ricin derived from the castor bean is extremely toxic and lethal in minute doses.
6) What are the constituents present in castor oil?
The contents of castor oil include palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, ricinoleic acid, linolenic acid.