@
Bublin:
What do you think causes the itchies?
JulietWhiskey
I think it's highly stimulating as it's a well known growth aid. I had to cut it with Jojoba or Sweet Almond Oil.
Another poster mentioned JBCO doesn't make them itch. That is true when I think about it. I was sent two bottles of it recently and I applied direct to my scalp. I remember wondering when my scalp was going to explode but it didn't.
Historically I have a bad scalp - ie easily builds up and in the past I have had huge nasty scales. Castor Oil is the only oil that has banished it. My intial itching and sometimes headaches MAY have been due to it going through a healing process since the oil is also antibacterial and antifungal. I don't know, just my thoughts.
Here is what I found on the web.....
Properties
Castor oil contains vitamin E, minerals, proteins, antibacterial and anti-fungicidal properties. The Castor Oil website attributes its healing benefits to its unusual chemical composition, which consists of a triglyceride of fatty acids with ricinoleic acid of up to 90 percent. In addition to healing benefits, castor oil also contains anti-inflammatory properties, all of which are related to healthy hair growth.
Improves Circulation
Target Woman, an online health and beauty magazine, lists good circulation as an important factor for hair growth. Sufficient circulation in the scalp area helps stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles. When the roots of your hair are properly nourished, your hair strands will be stronger and more resilient, allowing them to grow longer without breaking. Castor oil on your scalp can help to increase circulation. In addition, castor oil has a strengthening effect on hair follicles and can stimulate hair growth in cases of alopecia, or hair loss, according to Live and Feel, a health and beauty website
Controls Split Ends
Castor oil as a conditioning treatment can help reduce split ends, which in turn prevents hair loss and breakage. Omega 6 essential fatty acids, vitamin E, proteins and other nutrients in castor oil can penetrate dry and damaged hair, smoothing rough cuticles and helping the hair shaft retain moisture. Castor oil has a viscous consistency, so mixing it with lighter oils -- such as olive and jojoba -- makes it easier to evenly and sufficiently distribute it throughout your hair.
Moisturizes Scalp
Omega 6 fatty acids in castor oil help keep your scalp from drying out, while regular use of castor oil may encourage thicker hair growth, according to the Black Women Beauty Central website. Unrefined castor oil is preferred over refined types, because it contains more nutrients and healing properties. Use castor oil for hot oil treatments and scalp massages to stimulate hair growth and keep your hair soft and manageable. Leave the oil in your hair overnight, covered with a plastic cap to trap heat and enhance penetration. In the morning, wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo to remove all traces of castor oil, then style as usual.