Health, New Zealand (Commonwealth Union) – Castor Oil a natural solution for a variety of health conditions and has been used for centuries for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. This versatile oil is known for its ability to treat a wide range of health issues, from skin conditions to digestive problems. History of Castor Oil Castor oil has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was used for lightening, as a natural remedy, and even as a component in mummification processes. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, where it is known as “eranda taila.” In the 1800s, castor oil became popular in Western medicine as a laxative, and it was also used during World War I as a lubricant for machinery.
The multiple health benefits of castor oil also include ricinoleic acid, which is found in castor oil and has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This makes it useful for treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The substance is also rich in fatty acids, which can help to nourish and moisturize the hair and skin. It can help to promote hair growth and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as well.
University of Auckland researchers are currently conducting a trial to test the effectiveness of castor oil as a treatment for dry-eye disease, with promising results so far. Dry-eye disease affects a significant portion of the population, especially those over 50 years old. Risk factors for developing this condition include advancing age, menopause, increased screen time, and contact lens wear. Blepharitis, a common cause of dry-eye disease affecting over 80% of cases, is a chronic condition with no known cure. The ongoing research at the University of Auckland aims to find a safe and natural treatment for this widespread issue.
Catherine Jennings who is a doctoral candidate and the lead clinical investigator indicated that at present are left to feal with symptoms that include dryness, grittiness and in certain instances watery eyes bringing discomfort to the individuals that effects their quality of life as well as work efficiency.
Researchers of the study indicated that typically, medications like antibacterials and anti-inflammatories pose challenges for sustained usage because of notable side effects and the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Jennings pointed out that patients frequently experience a sense of helplessness in dealing with chronic conditions.
The ongoing trial involves a product comprising cold-pressed castor oil boosted with mānuka and kanuka oils, administered through a rollerball affixed to a compact glass vial.
“The previous pilot study, conducted by our research team, was unique in its use of castor oil in such an application on the eyelids, with the product not known to be used anywhere else in the world for treating blepharitis,” added Jennings.
Derived from the flowering tropical or subtropical shrub Riccinus communis, castor oil has a long history of therapeutic use spanning millennia. Its applications have expanded to include modern uses such as in eye cosmetics and eye makeup removers.
In a preliminary investigation, 26 individuals afflicted with blepharitis underwent a four-week treatment regimen utilizing cold-pressed castor oil. Tangible enhancements in symptoms were observed, including diminished redness along the eyelid margin, reduced thickening of the eyelid, decreased bacterial proliferation, and alleviated eyelash crusting.
Building upon the promising outcomes of the initial study, the research team has embarked on a more extensive double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial. Their objective is to enlist 92 participants, aiming to produce robust scientific validation for clinicians.
Professor Jennifer Craig, the principal investigator, underscores the overarching aspiration to enhance the quality of life for this substantial patient demographic through the utilization of a natural, safe, and efficacious product.
“Castor oil has been proposed as a natural product that could offer a safe, effective and easy-to-use alternative to existing therapies,” said Craig.
“My hope is this study will produce evidence-based guidance for clinicians with regard to offering castor oil as a possible management option for patients suffering from blepharitis, so they continue to enjoy a great quality of life, read the books they love, be productive in their work environment and enjoy other visual hobbies.”
With castor oil having a rich history of medicinal benefits and a variety of other uses, these recent finding on dry eyes are likely to further enhance the significance of castor oil.
