Castor oil: it's not just your grandmother's go-to remedy anymore! This golden elixir has been quietly revolutionizing wellness routines for centuries, but we're betting there are a few tricks up its sleeve you haven't heard about yet. Sure, you might know it as a laxative or hair growth booster, but that's just scratching the surface of what iAMA Castor Oil can do.
Castor Oil for eye health: reducing dark circles, redness and puffiness
Our Founder Steph has written many blog posts and documented how iAMA castor oil was the only thing that improved her sensitive, red eye condition. After trying a handful of eye drops, visiting eye specialists and being on antibiotics, massaging castor oil around her eyelids every night was the only method that she saw a transformative result from.
From this, she started to see other benefits that she was not expecting.
Reduces puffiness
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which has potent anti-inflammatory effects. This can help reduce puffiness and swelling around the eyes.
Brightens dark circles
The high fatty acid content which is found in iAMA's omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, provides deep hydration, helping to soften the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles. By improving skin hydration, ricinoleic acid helps build the strength of the skin barrier, which can be particularly beneficial for sensitive skin around the eyes.
Improved lymphatic drainage
Regular massage with castor oil can improve lymphatic drainage around the eye area, reducing fluid retention and puffiness. This helps to remove excess fluid and toxins from the tissues surrounding the eyes.
How to use: Apply three drops of iAMA castor oil on your fingertips and massage around the eyes before bed. Apply at night for absorption while the body is in recovery mode.
Castor Oil for Gut Health- a natural laxative and constipation relief
iAMA castor oil is FDA approved as a laxative. The miracle molecule it consists of, ricinoleic acid, activates EP3 prostanoid receptors in the intestinal walls.
This activation triggers a series of intracellular signaling pathways that increase the levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and calcium ions, leading to muscle contractions. The stimulation enhances peristaltic movements, which are the wave-like contractions that propel the contents of the intestines forward. This accelerated movement helps to quickly clear the gut and colon of stool and waste material.
The miracle molecule, ricinoleic acid, affects the absorption and secretion processes in the intestines. It reduces the absorption of water and electrolytes from the intestinal lumen into the bloodstream. The combined result is an increase in the water content within the intestines, which helps to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. The higher fluid volume also increases the bulk of the intestinal contents, which stimulates bowel movements.
Ricinoleic acid has demonstrated antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce harmful bacterial populations in the gut. By inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria, castor oil helps to maintain a healthier balance of gut microbiota, which is essential for optimal digestive function.
Ricinoleic acid inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (such as PGE2) in the intestinal walls. This reduction in inflammation can help soothe the gut lining and promote a healthier environment for digestion and waste elimination
When taken orally, iAMA castor oil typically induces bowel movements within 2-6 hours, making it an effective remedy for swift constipation relief. Do not exceed 3 tablespoons per day.
How to use: Consume a tablespoon of iAMA castor oil in a smoothie or drink of your choice. (Ensure you are not due to leave the house after drinking!)
Castor Oil for Menstrual Cramps and Womb Health
iAMA Founder Steph has been pouring castor oil in her belly button, also known as navel pulling since Jan 2023. Although it took a year to see the difference in her menstrual cycle, it had a transformative effect on her life.
- Castor oil has regulated her cycle from 60 days to 28 days
- She no longer feels pain or cramps before, during or after her period
- Her period is now a welcomed guest instead of a dreaded experience
- The length of her period has gone from 8 days down to 4 days
- Her skin and hormonal flare ups have subsided and are under control
The anti-inflammatory properties of ricinoleic acid can help reduce inflammation in the pelvic region, alleviating menstrual cramps. Applying castor oil to the belly button or lower abdomen increases blood flow to the pelvic area, which can help relax uterine muscles and reduce cramping.
Applying castor oil to the abdomen area can stimulate the lymphatic system and enhance lymphatic circulation, which helps remove toxins that may disrupt hormonal balance. Enhanced detoxification supports the liver’s ability to process and eliminate excess hormones, potentially aiding in hormonal regulation. A well-functioning liver can more effectively metabolise and balance hormones, potentially alleviating symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
How to use: Apply generous drops of iAMA castor oil in your belly button and around your abdomen area. Massage for at least 1 minute. Wrap in a cloth or wear old pyjamas to stop the spread. Apply at night for absorption while the body is in recovery mode.
Castor Oil For Insomnia: Promoting Relaxation and Better Sleep
The act of massaging castor oil onto the skin is inherently soothing and relaxing. Not only does it promote self connection, but the gentle, repetitive motion of massage can help to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, which are common contributors to insomnia. You can read more about using castor oil in your sleep routine here.
Ricinoleic acid, the miracle molecule in castor oil, has exhibited mild sedative properties. This can help in inducing a state of relaxation and readiness for sleep.
The thick consistency of castor oil provides a protective barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the night, which can indirectly promote better sleep.
How to use: Apply generous drops of iAMA castor oil to your finger tips. Massage your temples, eyelids and on to the soles of your feet for at least 3 minutes. Apply at night for deeper absorption while your body is in recovery mode.
Try Our Organic, Cold Pressed Castor Oil Today!
If you're curious about using castor oil, give it a go! It's safe, natural and there are no side effects as long as you use a high-quality, 100% organic, cold-pressed castor oil like IAMA's.
P.S To help you get the most out of nature's golden elixir, with every purchase of IAMA Castor Oil, you'll receive our FREE user guide!
P.P.S Check out our favourite castor oil beauty blends, rituals and recipes here
If you're unsure about anything or just want to say hi, you can get in touch by emailing contact@iamawellness.com or alternatively, drop us a message on Insta.
