Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), has a rich history as a health and wellness aid – and is now attracting widespread interest online.
In traditional Indian medicine Ayurveda, castor oil has been used for thousands of years to treat ailments from arthritis to skin problems.
Ancient Egyptians also used it for medicinal purposes. Cleopatra is said to have employed castor oil to brighten the whites of her eyes.
During the Middle Ages it was used in Europe as a remedy for constipation, and to induce labour – and is still sometimes used for these things.
Social media has put castor oil back into the limelight.
The 46-year-old host of YouTube channel Stylish & Grateful, which has more than 74,000 subscribers, Liz (who uses her first name only), has had 3.2 million views on the platform for her video Shocking castor oil results after 60 days! in the year since it was posted.
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