Castor oil as laxative

Castor oil

Castor oil is a vegetable oil. It is obtained from the seeds of castor oil plant. This plant originates from east Africa. Castor oil is pale yellow in color and has mild scent. It has many health benefits and is usually used in treating many health conditions, such as constipation, arthritis and many skin disorders. Furthermore, it is also used for a rapid hair growth, since it has regenerative properties. Castor oil may also be used to induce labor.

Oleic acid, linoleic acid and ricinoleic acid are three types of acids that are main ingredients of the castor oil. These acids are very powerful in fighting against bacteria, viruses and fungi. Therefore, when a person suffers from an infection, castor oil is usually used as a remedy.

Castor oil as laxative

Castor oil is also used as laxative when one suffers from constipation. Castor oil is very effective in stimulating the colon walls to move the fecal material through the bowel. Furthermore, the intestinal absorption of the fluids is refrained by the castor oil and thus the bowel maintains more moisture, which further makes the passage of stools easier.

When one decides to use castor oil as a laxative in cases of constipation, it is important either to consult a doctor, or to follow the instructions on the label of the product exactly as they are written. Castor oil may be available in the form of liquid, but also in the form of tablets and capsules. The dosage of castor oil depends on the age of the person and the person’s reaction to it.

In the cases when it is only used for one time, it is recommended to take castor oil before going to bed at night. Furthermore, when one uses castor oil as a remedy for constipation, it is important to drink plenty of water, at least 8 glasses every day. Castor oil should be used every day at the same time. It is not recommended to use it for more than seven days or when a woman is pregnant, since it can lead to certain complications, such as loss of intestinal function and prolonged constipation. When castor oil is taken in higher doses that it is recommended, several side effects may appear, such as weakness of colon muscles. Furthermore, when one uses it for a long period of time, it usually makes the person become dependent on it for regular bowel movement.