9 Side Effects Of Castor Oil You Should Be Aware Of

For many years, people from many cultures have used castor oil to treat a variety of medical conditions. Castor oil is well known in both conventional and modern medicine. However, the oil also poses certain risks. The most common side effects of castor oil include skin rashes, diarrhea, nausea, and muscle cramps. In addition, both internal and topical castor oil has been linked with other side effects.

This article discusses the aforementioned side effects in detail, what you can do about them, and the recommended dosage of castor oil. Read on.

Know The Flip Side: Castor Oil

Short-Term Effects
Skin rashes, diarrhea, nausea, and muscle cramps.

Long-Term Effects
Diarrhea, pneumonia, intestinal damage, and malnutrition in infants after birth. Not suitable for pregnant or lactating women due to certain chemical compounds.

Drug Interactions
None.

When To See A Doctor
If you are pregnant or lactating and notice any allergic reactions.

Castor Oil – A Brief

Castor oil is the pale yellow liquid that is extracted from castor seeds (Ricinus communis). Depending on the extraction process of the castor bean, you can obtain a wide variety of this oil, like black castor oil and hydrogenated castor oil. The Egyptians must be credited for recognizing the benefits of castor oil and putting them to use.

Castor oil is a common cooking oil and part of a proper diet. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for managing a variety of health conditions. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties along with potent laxative properties that may boost bowel movement, soften stool, and ease constipation.

Castor oil is used in cosmetics, medicines, skincare products, massage oils, and medicines – given its powerful therapeutic benefits and antibacterial property. Around 90% of the oil is comprised of ricinoleic acid, which is its primary healing agent (1).

Trivia

Castor oil was first used as lamp fuel by the Egyptians before its healing properties were discovered. As evidence of its popularity, castor seeds have been discovered in pyramids dating to 4000 BC.

How Can Castor Oil Cause Side Effects?

Castor oil

is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and effective for use as a laxative. It is processed in the small intestine to release an active molecule called ricinoleic acid, along with other products (2).

Ricinoleic acid was suspected to be toxic to humans. But rat studies under the National Toxicology Program cleared it, stating that castor oil at concentrations up to 10% in the diet of rats was not toxic. A few human studies also produced concurrent results (2).

However, other animal trials with undiluted castor oil showed adverse effects. Ricinoleic acid, though not toxic by itself, may enhance the penetration of other chemicals through your skin. This may result in skin irritation and gut issues (2).

An overdose of castor oil can lead to conditions more severe than irritated skin. It can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and muscle cramps. Other common reactions to castor oil include allergic skin reaction, possible labor induction, and rectal bleeding. You may also experience irregular heartbeat and acute hair felting.

Here are some side effects of castor seed oil you might want to watch out for.

What Are The Side Effects Of Castor Oil?

1. Nausea

Castor oil overdose can cause nausea. Though recovery is likely, not controlling the nauseating symptoms can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyteⁱ  Electrically charged minerals present in your blood and other bodily fluids that influence the body's water and pH balance. imbalance. This oil is also used as a preparation means for radiological and colonoscopyⁱ  A medical procedure in which the colon is examined with a flexible fiber-optic camera inserted through the anus. examinations (3), (4). However, most patients fail to tolerate its aftertaste and oily texture.

While this side effect may not require immediate medical attention from your healthcare provider or the poison control center, this may be followed by other unpleasant adverse effects. As per an Iranian study, castor oil-induced nausea can also be accompanied by vomiting, abdominal fullness, and cramps (4).

2. Skin Rashes

Animal studies found that castor bean plant oil was mildly irritating to the skin of the test subjects.

Skin irritation is a common side effect of topical castor oil. Other allergic reactions to castor oil are redness (erythema) and hivesⁱ  Also called urticaria, itchy skin rashes that develop due to exposure to food, stress, medications, or other allergens. . These can occur on the site where the oil is applied (5).

Castor oil is not a significant skin irritant or sensitizer in human clinical tests. But ricinoleic acid in it may aggravate the condition of patients with pre-existing skin conditions (2). Thus, this component of castor oil contributes significantly to its skin irritant properties and the onset of this skin issue.

Trivia

Castor seeds contain CB1A, an allergen that may affect individuals with hypersensitivityⁱ  Exaggerated or undesirable response of the immune system that occurs within 24 hours of exposure to an allergen or irritant. during the oil extraction process. The oil doesn’t contain this allergen.

3. Muscle Cramps

This seed oil is a potent laxative. However, muscle weakness and cramps could result from a laxative overdose. Castor plant oil can also cause intestinal cramps and abdominal pain if taken on an empty stomach (6), (7).

This is closely linked to the mechanism of action of the laxative property of castor oil. The ricinoleic acid present in castor oil attaches to the smooth muscle cells of the digestive tract, which can result in contractions.

This is why pregnant and menstruating women are advised against using castor oil as a laxative. It may also induce uterine contractions (in pregnant women) in some cases (7). It may also lead to premature labor. Do not use this oil for induction of labor unless directed by your healthcare professional.

Hence, unless advised by your doctor, do not self-medicate with castor oil. The dosage is said to make all the difference, and it is best decided by a healthcare provider.

4. Dizziness

Dizziness is another symptom of castor oil overdose. Other castor oil side effects include fainting, shortness of breath, and, in rare cases, hallucinationsⁱ  A false perception of seeing, tasting, or touching objects or hearing sounds that are not present. (3).

Synthetic derivatives of castor oil are administered with other chemotherapy medications to manage breast, lung, ovarian, and skin cancer in patients. Also, cancer medications can lead to a host of adverse effects. Thus, inform the doctor if subjects experience hives, dizziness, difficulty in breathing, tiredness, chest pain, and/or irregular heartbeat (8).

However, the mechanism behind this effect is not established yet.

5. Lethal For Newborns And Children

In traditional Indian medicine, castor oil is given to infants 2-3 days after birth. This practice can result in severe intestinal damage, diarrhea, pneumonia, and malnutrition (9). Thus, the dosage of castor oil to manage any medical condition without causing any harmful drug interactions can only be determined by your healthcare provider.

Consulting your doctor before taking such dangerous steps is recommended as there is insufficient literature about the safety of castor oil use in lactating women, new-mothers, breastfeeding infants, and children (9).

You may also be asked to consume castor oil supplements by your doctor, in a few cases. Castor oil supplements come in gelatinous capsules and are available only on prescription. They have similar side effects if you don’t stick to the clinically-set dosage (9).

However, you can prevent these side effects by taking the necessary precautions.

Side Effects Of Castor Oil Supplements

Castor oil supplements are usually in the form of gelatinous capsules. Generally, individuals use this oil to manage hair fall and control skin conditions like dry skin. While the properties of castor oil supplements may improve the appearance of your hair, excess consumption of these capsules may show side effects. Though there is less research on the safety or toxicity of castor oil supplements, anecdotal evidence suggests that they carry the risk of higher levels of contamination.

Also, it is highly likely that castor oil supplements contain castor beans, which are highly toxic (27).

Other side effects of excessive consumption of the supplements could be similar to that of castor oil – abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, uterine contraction, allergic reaction, abdominal pain, etc.

Since their safety is not yet established, pregnant or lactating women should specifically avoid these supplements. Also, castor supplements containing other natural herbs or oils like olive oil may increase the risk of allergies.

Consuming castor oil in any form may have harmful side effects. Hence, it is crucial to consult a doctor before using it. Your physician can advise you on the appropriate dosage of castor oil and tell you whether it is right for you.

What Precautions Are Needed While Using Castor Oil?

• Before you intake castor oil, you must first let your doctor know if you are allergic to plant oils or any part of the castor oil plant.
• Health conditions of the heart, brain, lungs, and vital organs must not be hidden from your healthcare provider.
• Castor oil is not usually taken late in the day because its results occur within 2 to 6 hours.
• If you are using castor oil for the face or skin, it is recommended to perform a patch test to avoid allergic reactions. Also, opt for cold-pressed organic oil without additives.

The side effects may have largely to do with the dosing. What could be the ideal dosage?

What Is The Safe Dosage Of Using Castor Oil?

For adults and children over 12 years of age, 1-4 tablespoons maximum (15-60 mL) in a single daily dose may be safe (10).

For children of 2 to under 12 years of age, 1-3 teaspoons maximum (5-15 mL) in a single daily dose can be tried (10).

For children under 2 years of age, it is best not to give either castor oil or its supplements. Consult a doctor about the amount of castor oil you can take before taking the plunge (10).

When using castor oil for eyes or skin, there is no suggested safe dosage. Always consult a doctor before it and avoid using more than 2-3 drops.

Infographic: Safer Dosage Levels Of Castor Oil

Castor oil is a multipurpose vegetable oil with a number of applications. In addition, it is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, you must be aware of the adverse reactions that come with excess usage. So to avoid its adverse reactions, one should use it in recommended dosage. Check out the infographic below to learn about safer dosage levels of castor oil.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Does castor oil affect hormones?

According to Mary Sabat, MS, RD, LD, “Castor oil has been suggested to help with balancing hormones, including estrogen. It contains ricinoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that is thought to help reduce inflammation and balance hormones. It can also help reduce the symptoms of estrogen dominance, such as weight gain, mood swings, and fatigue. Castor oil packs have been used to pull toxins out of a specific organ by placing the packs over that part of the body. Removing toxins would definitely have a positive effect on hormonal balance.”

What does castor oil do for a period?

Sabat says, “Castor oil has been used for centuries to help ease period cramps and improve menstrual flow. It can be taken orally, applied topically, or used in an enema. Additionally, massaging castor oil on the lower abdomen can help reduce cramping. Castor oil enemas can help stimulate the uterus, which is thought to improve menstrual flow and reduce period pain.”

Does castor oil affect estrogen?

Mary Sabat says, “Castor oil is believed to have anti-estrogenic properties, meaning it can help reduce the amount of estrogen in the body. It is thought to reduce estrogen levels by stimulating the liver to flush out excess hormones and toxins and is also believed to help balance other hormones in the body, such as testosterone and progesterone. Castor oil can also help reduce inflammation, which can help regulate hormone levels.”

Does castor oil make you sleepy?

Sabat says, “Castor oil is a natural laxative, and it has been used as a home remedy to treat insomnia or difficulty sleeping. When taken orally, castor oil stimulates the small intestine to contract and move food through the intestines more quickly. This helps reduce the time it takes for food to move through the body.” She adds, “The increased movement of the intestines can help regulate the body’s natural sleep hormones and relax the brain, allowing for better sleep. Additionally, castor oil has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help ease pain and relax the body, making it easier to drift off to sleep.”

Is castor oil bad for your hair?

Sufficient research regarding the side effects of using castor oil for hair is unavailable. The oil has antimicrobial properties that may fight bacterial or fungal overgrowth. It may also prevent hair-damaging inflammation.

What does castor oil look, taste, and smell like?

The oil has a yellow-greenish appearance. It has a characteristic odor and a nauseating taste.

What is castor oil made of?

The oil mostly contains triglycerideⁱ  A type of converted fat stored in your blood and used by the body to give energy between meals s. The major ingredient is ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains oleic and linoleic acids.

Where is castor oil produced?

India, Brazil, and China are the primary producers of castor oil. The three countries account for over 90% of the world’s castor oil production.

Is castor oil safe for eyes?

Though it is not harmful, applying castor oil on your eyes may not be desirable. This is because castor oil might dry out the skin way too much as the skin around the eyes is delicate.
It is said that castor oil can probably be good for the growth of the eyebrows and eyelashes. But there is no supporting evidence for this application. So, if you really have to use castor oil for your eyes, it is recommended to consult a doctor before doing so.

Does castor oil expire?

Yes. Good castor oil is clear and not cloudy. It can be anywhere between a light straw color to the color of gold, but not dark brown. Also, good castor oil is odorless.

How does castor oil work for an itchy scalp?

Castor oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that help treat an itchy scalp. Mix a tablespoon of castor oil with olive oil and the juice of half a lemon. Apply to your hair and rinse after half an hour. This may help cure dandruff as well.

Do castor oil packs also have side effects? If yes, what are they?

Actually, no. At least not as severe as oral ingestion of castor oil would cause. Castor oil packs are known to decrease inflammation, liver detoxification, and stimulation of the thyroid gland (beneficial for hypothyroidism).
Making the pack is simple. Simply soak a flannel cloth in castor oil. Place a heating pad over it, and directly apply it to the infected area for an hour.

Does castor oil make skin dark?

According to anecdotal evidence, castor oil may help reduce pigmentation and minimize blemishes. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove the same.

Can castor oil cause bleeding?

Possibly. According to anecdotal evidence, excess intake of castor oil may lead to gastrointestinal (especially rectal) bleeding.

Get the real scoop on castor oil and what they don’t tell you about it in this revealing video. Separate fact from fiction and make informed choices for your hair and skin. Watch now for the truth.

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Reviewer Expert Author Editor Fact Checker

Madhu SharmaRD

Madhu Sharma is a member of the National Executive Committee of IDA. She has been associated for almost three decades with Pediatric Nutrition at PGI while serving in the Gastroenterology Department (20 years) and then the Advanced Pediatric Center (10 yrs) at PGIMER, Chandigarh.

Read full bio of Madhu Sharma

• 
  Mary SabatMS, RDN, LD Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian and a certified in personal training by the American Council of Exercise. She has 30 years of experience in nutrition education, wellness coaching, fitness training, holistic health, and weight loss coaching. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Delaware and master’s degree in Human Nutrition with an emphasis on Exercise Science from Rutgers University.
  
  Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian and a certified in personal training by the American Council of Exercise. She has 30 years of experience in nutrition education, wellness coaching, fitness training, holistic health, and weight loss coaching. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Delaware and master’s degree in Human Nutrition with an emphasis on Exercise Science from Rutgers University.

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