Castor Oil Vs Black Castor Oil.

Castor Oil and Black Castor Oil. What is the difference?

Pure castor oil is usually made by using the cold press method. It has been used for centuries and it is said that Cleopatra used it to whiten her eyes. Similarly to most carrier oils no heat or chemical is used and it tends to be purely organic. Castor oil is very rich in texture making it very thick whilst light in color.

Black Castor oil, or Jamaican castor oil is also made using the same Castor beans but the method of extraction is different. Unlike Castor oil, this oil is roasted, grounded and then boiled . The ashes of the roasted beans are also added to the oil, altering the color to be a lot darker.

SO AHUVA, what exactly is the difference? Well... other than the differences mentioned above, the only other major difference is that Jamaican Castor oil is more "alkaline" in nature, making it best for our hair when it becomes too "acidic" and helping with penetration of the oil into the scalp.

Both oils are fairly thick in texture, so when used for hair, they are better left on long term for those with thicker hair types (around 3A-4C) or can be diluted into mixtures with lighter oils or else it may weigh your hair down.

Random Fact

Jamaican Black castor oil originated from Africa, during the slave trade (1740 to 1810). It was produced by ex-slaves in rural communities in Africa and brought to the Caribbean by Ancestors. It is a Jamaican product and has been part of Jamaica’s cultural heritage since the beginning of the nineteenth century. Jamaican Black Castor was re-introduced to Jamaica in the 1860s by the colonial government and again in 1937, during world war two to provide fuel for household lamps.

3 Main Benefits of Jamaican Black Castor Oil:

1. On skin, it can fight infections with its antibacterial properties. It also has healing properties that can reduce scaring heal chapped lips and help with aging.

2. On the body, it can improve digestion & bowel health, relieve joint pain, alleviate insomnia, ease menstrual cramps and promote respiratory Health.

3. On our hair, it promotes thickness, moisturizes, heals split ends and strengthens the hair overall. This is especially great for those with a weakened hairline.

3 Main Benefits of Castor Oil:

1. On skin, it can fight fungus and heal wounds as well as hydrate your skin. It is a natural emollient so is great for dry skin.

2. On the body, it is also a great laxative as my grandma often taught us.

3. On our hair, it is great for those with dry, or flakey scalp and has also been said to help boost hair growth.

Disclaimer: Thank you so much for reading, but please note that I am not medically trained and this information has been collected purely on research and advice. Please ensure you do not use or consume these oils without seeking professional advice if necessary.