Is Castor Oil Safe?

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Castor oil is widely-used for treatment of a range of health problems. Is castor oil safe? It has been known as a laxative remedy, skin and hair care product, as a means to induce labor in overdue women for centuries. Are there any possible side effects of castor oil known?

Castor oil and constipation

According to Wikipedia the United States Food and Drug Administration considers castor oil a safe and effective laxative product. Castor oil can be used to treat constipation as the ricinoleic acid in its composition stimulates the muscles in the intestines and reduces fluid absorption. Is castor oil safe for use as a laxative? It is safe when applied according to the instruction:

• Castor oil shouldn’t be applied by pregnant women.
• Castor oil shouldn’t be used for a long period of time, longer than 5-7 days.
• Before using castor oil make sure that you are not allergic to it. Read more about castor oil side effects.

Castor oil has several contraindications. It is not allowed in case of gastrointestinal and bowel disorders. Consult your doctor before taking castor oil internally.

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Castor oil for skin

Castor oil is highly efficient for skin care. As Wikipedia states the ricinoleic acid in castor oil is a great emollient and has the anti-inflammatory effect. The undercylenic acid treats fungal diseases and kills bacteria. As a result castor oil may take care of your skin as well as treat all skin diseases, including moles, eczema and athlete’s foot. Is castor oil safe for skin? YES. It has no chemicals and artificial ingredients. The only thing is that you should know that you are not sensitive to castor oil before applying it on your skin.

Is castor oil safe to induce labor?

Castor oil is used to induce labor by overdue pregnant women. The oil has been used with this aim for a long period of time. Is castor oil safe for women?  The main disadvantages of the oil to induce labor are:

• Castor oil may cause side effects in women. They feel nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
• The oil may induce excessive dehydration. It prevents fluid absorption.
• Castor oil may lead to the meconium passing and it may enter the future baby’s lungs.

There are no scientific proves that castor oil is safe or dangerous for inducing labor. Consult your doctor before castor oil application.

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Castor oil for pregnant women

Pregnant women should remember that they may take castor oil only after 40 weeks of pregnancy. The oil is dangerous for pregnant women according to Mayoclinic as it may induce contractions of the womb.