Castor oil is a naturopathic method for treating many conditions, including:
- Dry eyes- Castor oil adds lubrication to the eyes to decrease dry eyes.
- Inflammation- Castor oil can reduce irritation and inflammation in the eyes.
- Eye infections- By improving circulation and lubrication, castor oil can help prevent eye infections.
- Cataracts-Castor oil can potentially improve vision that has been damaged by age-related cataracts.
- The appearance of eyelashes- Castor oil can make eyelashes look fuller and improve luster.
- Dark circles and under eye wrinkles-Improving skin hydration can lessen dark circles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles under your eyes.
There are potential side effects and possible dangers from using castor oil for your eyes, so be sure to check with your medical provider before using it.
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Improvement of Dry Eyes
Castor oil is one of the main ingredients in several over-the-counter eye drops that are used to improve dry eyes. The oil can help to keep tears from evaporating as fast. This helps to keep your eyes lubricated for longer, which leads to less sensitivity and more comfort.
Inflammation Reduction
Castor oil can also help to decrease irritation and redness around your eyes when applied topically. It acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent that is commonly used to soothe aching joints and muscles during massage.
Eye Infection Prevention
Eye infections are often a common complication and side effect of chronic dry eye. Since castor oil helps with eye lubrication and maintaining your tears, it can also serve as a prevention measure for eye infections, including conjunctivitis or pink eye.
Improvement of Cataracts
Improved blood circulation in your eyes, as well as increased lubrication from castor oil eye drops, has been shown to improve age-related mild cataracts.In conjunction with other homeopathic remedies, castor oil eye drops can be used before bed each night to improve symptoms and vision issues related to cataracts, studies show.
Castor Oil for Eyelashes
Castor oil can improve the appearance of your eyelashes by making them shinier and glossier. It can also help them to seem thicker and less matted together. Castor oil is made up of mainly ricinoleic acid, which is high in triglycerides. The triglycerides in castor oil help to moisturize your eyelashes to give them more luster.
Reduction of Dark Circles & Wrinkles Under the Eyes
Castor oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that act as a natural moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. The active agents of castor oil can help to heal and protect the delicate skin under your eyes, which can decrease the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles.
Along with improved circulation, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil can improve the way the skin under your eyes looks.
Using Castor Oil Safely on Your Eyes
If you use castor oil for eyes, be sure to choose artificial tear or eye drop products made for eyes that contain castor oil and not non-sterile castor oil by it. If applying castor oil topically, be sure to wash your hands before application and gently massage the oil around your eyes.
