Ricinus Communis Seed Oil (Castor Oil)

Castor Oil is a thick, viscous vegetable oil extracted from castor beans. It is uniquely rich in ricinoleic acid (about 90%), an unusual fatty acid that gives castor oil its distinctive properties. Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) is a roasted variant with additional ash content that is particularly popular in natural hair communities.

Source: Castor bean plant (Ricinus communis) seeds

Origin: Natural

Also known as: Castor Oil, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, JBCO, Cold-Pressed Castor Oil

Castor Oil coats the hair shaft with a thick, protective layer that seals in moisture and prevents water loss. Ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may benefit scalp health. The oil's high viscosity and humectant properties help attract moisture to the hair, though it is too thick to penetrate the hair shaft significantly.

Best For

Dry hair, coarse hair, curly hair (3B-4C), natural hair, thinning edges, dry scalp

Not Recommended For

Fine hair, oily scalp, low-porosity hair

Concentration Matters

1-100% (pure oil or blended)

Safe for topical use. Very thick and can be difficult to wash out. Undiluted castor oil may pull on hair and cause mechanical breakage. No evidence supports claims that castor oil stimulates hair growth, though it excels at moisture retention and scalp health.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics and classifies as GRAS for food use. Castor oil is also an FDA-approved OTC laxative.

EWG Score: 1/10

Hair oils, scalp treatments, edge control, deep conditioners, hair growth serums

If you want to avoid Ricinus Communis Seed Oil (Castor Oil), look for products with these ingredients instead:

Jojoba Oil, Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, Olive Oil