As this list will come to show, there are a number of seemingly abnormal uses for this medicine - some of which will surely surprise you!
Use it to relieve arthritis pain
To get some relief from pain caused by arthritis, massage castor oil onto those achy joints. For added benefits, create a paste by mixing some castor oil with turmeric or cayenne pepper. Be sure to keep it away from your eyes, particularly if using cayenne pepper.
Use it to promote hair growth
Whether you want thicker hair, or would like to cover up a balding area on your scalp, massage some castor oil into the area for about 6 minutes every day to promote natural hair growth. It can also be used on the eyebrows. For a thicker brow line, just massage a few drops for a couple of minutes every day.
Use it to promote healthy bowels
Ingesting castor oil is a great way to alleviate constipation. On this note, however, caution is advised - the oil does work extremely well as a laxative. Simply mix a teaspoon into orange or cranberry juice each morning to keep your bowels working regularly.
Use it to remove warts and skin tags
To remove unsightly warts and skin tags, opt for castor oil. Just apply the oil to the wart or skin tag every day for a few weeks - you should begin to see the mark disappear. Unfortunately, castor oil will not work on moles, so be sure you know what you are trying to remove before using it.
Use it to perk up ferns
If your ferns haven't been looking their best, a mixture including castor oil will perk them right up. Just combine a tablespoon of the oil with 4 cups of warm water and a tablespoon of baby shampoo. Drip about 3 tablespoons into the soil around the fern, then follow with regular water.
Use it to relieve calluses and corns
When applied directly to the affected area, castor oil will help get rid of calluses. Simply massage a bit of the oil into the corns to help alleviate the pain and the swelling that they cause. Though it may take a couple of applications, you will see them disappear over time.
Use it to promote healthy skin
One of its lesser-known uses, castor oil works wonderfully at eliminating and preventing wrinkles. It is also ideal for pregnant women - rubbing castor oil onto the skin can help improve elasticity and prevent stretch marks caused by pregnancy. For a youthful glow, just apply it directly to your skin.
Use it to relieve pain from scratches
To relieve pain from scratches and other abrasions, opt for castor oil. Simply add a few drops to your scratches, allowing the healing properties of the oils to heal them. Castor oil is also a great option for treating ringworm and other fungal ailments.
Use it to relieve sore muscles
Castor oil makes for a wonderful massage oil that can be used to alleviate sore muscles. Just apply it to the affected area and massage. It may also be used as an oil for general massages - due to its Vitamin E content, it is great for your skin.
Use it to treat hemorrhoids
Castor oil is great at shrinking hemorrhoids and alleviating the pain and itching that they cause. Simply soak a cotton ball in the oil and apply it to your hemorrhoids. You may leave the cotton ball for about 15 minutes or so. It is important to note, however, that this only works for hemorrhoids that are outside the body.
Use it to treat insomnia
If you've been suffering from sleepless nights of late, castor oil is an effective remedy. Just rub a bit on your eyelids before getting into bed (make sure that you don't actually get any in your eyes). The castor oil will help bring about a peaceful night's sleep and will have you feeling refreshed in the morning.
Use it to soothe tired eyes
In removing tiredness from around the eyes, castor oil works much like petroleum jelly. Before you go to bed at night, rub a little around your eyes and just a tad on your eyelashes, allowing the oil to soak in overnight, leaving you looking and feeling a little more refreshed in the morning. Again, just be careful not to get it in your eyes.
