Castor Oil

• Castor Oil promotes hair growth, moisturizes skin, and supports digestive health naturally.
• Castor Oil is widely used in cosmetics, medicines, and industrial applications for its healing properties.

General Information of Castor Oil

• Synonyms: Oleum Palmae Christi, Ricinus Oil.
• Biological Source:
  • Derived from seeds of Ricinus communis.
• Family: Euphorbiaceae.
• Geographical Source:
  • Major producers: India, China, Brazil, USA, Thailand.

Macroscopical Characters of Castor Oil

• Color: Pale yellow to colorless.
• Odor: Mild characteristic odor.
• Taste: Slightly acrid, unpleasant.
• Consistency: Viscous liquid, non-drying oil.

Chemical Constituents of Castor Oil

• Fixed Oils:
  • Ricinoleic Acid (85-90
  • Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Stearic Acid – Minor components.
• Toxic Components: Ricin (a highly toxic protein present in raw seeds).

Mechanism of Action

• As a Laxative: Ricinoleic acid stimulates the intestinal mucosa, increasing peristalsis and water secretion.
• As a Drug Carrier: Enhances solubility and bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs.

Preparation

1. Seed Collection & Cleaning: Seeds are harvested and dried.
2. Cold Pressing or Solvent Extraction: Oil is extracted from seeds.
3. Purification: Degumming, neutralization, bleaching, and deodorization.

Evaluation

• Solubility: Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water.
• Identification Tests:
  • Ricinoleic Acid Test – Castor oils reacts with potassium hydroxide, forming a viscous gel.
  • Iodine Value Test – Determines unsaturation level.

Preservation & Storage

• Stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool place to prevent rancidity.

Therapeutic Uses

• Strong laxative (purgative).
• Lubricant in eye drops and ointments.
• Used in drug formulations (carrier oil for hydrophobic drugs).

Commercial Utility

• Used in cosmetics (moisturizers, hair oils).
• Used in paints and coatings (as a plasticizer).

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