It’s been so cold across the country – we’ve even had some cold, dry days in Florida. This type of weather makes for dry, cracked skin. It can also cause more aches and pains then usual. Even having the heater on can make your eyes, sinuses and skin extremely dry.
But I’ve got something for your hacks today that is going to fix a lot of those winter woes.
It’s all about the amazing benefits of castor oil. Castor oil has been used worldwide for thousands of years, and for more than just a laxative. Some benefits might just surprise you.
Here are ways to use this wonderful oil, hack style:
The fatty acid, ricinoleic acid, found in castor oil has been studied for its anti inflammatory properties. When applied topically it has been extremely effective in reducing pain and inflammation. You’ll want to warm the oil and rub into the area for 15-20 minutes. You can stop there or apply a hot-water bottle/hot pack. For best results use this technique once or twice a week.
This one may seem a bit odd, but castor oil is a great treatment for dry eye. You have to use organic cold-pressed hexane-free castor oil. The easiest way is to purchase the oil in a dropper bottle. Or you can buy the dropper bottle separately, but make sure it’s sterile. Apply a drop to each eye before bedtime. You can also use a little bit of the oil for crows feet.
Castor oil has wound-healing properties which makes it a great treatment for dry, cracked heels. Apply castor oil to the affected area before bedtime and put on socks. Do this nightly until your skin is healed. You can also do this to your hands and just wear gloves.
Repair winter lips with an equal mixture of coconut oil and castor oil. Apply as needed.
The dry air from the heater, or even using a neti pot, can really dry out your sinuses. Apply a couple of warm drops of castor oil to each nostril. It’ll be the lubrication your nose needs.
Castor oil makes a great moisturizer when mixed with equal parts of any carrier oil (almond, olive, coconut, grapeseed, etc). Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to scent.
Need to calm down the electric static and dryness from your hair? Try a castor oil treatment. Mix equal parts of melted coconut oil and castor oil. Apply to the scalp and throughout the hair to the ends. Cover with a shower cap and leave on for 20 minutes to an hour. Rinse and then shampoo. Style as usual.
Have a great week!
For a healthier you!
Sandy DeRose
References:
Narayanan S., Et. al. Comparison of pressure ulcer treatments in long-term care facilities: clinical outcomes and impact on cost. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2005.
National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database.
Vieira C., Et. al. Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflamm. 2000.
Boddu SH., Et. al. Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery. Int J Pharm. 2015.
