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| Bought this small bottle from Knight's Pharmacy, Warrens. |
It's just about 3 weeks since I began using Castor Oil on my locs, primarily along the hairline. I do also rub the oil onto on my scalp between the parts and on areas that feel itchy. I like the sheen it gives. I do not over apply given that the oil is so concentrated, a little goes a long way. It is also very sticky. The scent is bland, at least that is best way I can describe it.
For my daughter's hair, I apply to the temple areas primarily. Then, I put one drop on my hands, rub together and then I lightly run my hands onto her hair (covering even down to the ends sometimes), massaging into her scalp and temples. I do that step especially after her weekly washes. Then, I dry and twist. Her hair is shinier, not as frizzy and a bit softer. But, I might also have to attribute these changes to the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Shampoo which I have been using since the beginning of the year. Not sure, but I like what I have been seeing.
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Castor oil properties: germicide and fungicide
Castor oil:
- is made from the seeds of the Castor plant
- contains Ricinoleic acid which is known to inhibit the growth of bacteria
- promotes hair growth. It has properties which are useful in the fight against hair loss
- works to prevent dry scalp
- is a humectant. This means that it helps your hair to retain moisture, whereby eliminating frizziness
- aids in making hair thicker and stronger
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| The Heritage Brand of Essential oils is sold here in Barbados. See Jenn's. Or check Nature's Discount or JNC |
But these points are nothing new. Many older women, those of my Granny's era especially, have long recommended Castor oil to thicken the weak areas of the hairline and other thinning spots.
I am not ready as yet to mix my Castor oil with any other essential oil. But, you may use Castor oil with Sweet Almond oil. Or for a scalp treatment, trying mixing with Jojoba oil. But these other EO's are said to work well with Castor oil to stimulate the follicles and encourage hair repair and growth:
- Rosemary, Grape Seed, Lavender, Cedarwood oils
For deep conditioning purposes:
- evenly distribute Castor oil onto your scalp
- put on a plastic cap and leave on for 10 - 20 minutes
- apply heat if you so desire
- then, remove cap and rinse THOROUGHLY
When using this oil, remember to distribute evenly to the scalp because it is so thick.
Using the refined type oil seems to work better. In its purest form, Castor is richer, darker in colour. The one I have purchased is lighter in colour, but you will read why soon.
On a final note
I have actually been trying to source the Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor oil or Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor oil. But I am yet to find either here in Barbados. Actually, I cannot find any brand of black Castor oil! From reading many, many blog posts and websites, it seems that many women who have been trying to heal their thinning and/or breaking hair, are turning to Jamaican Black Castor oil. And, they are singing its praises. Personally, I believe that it has to do with the fact that the oil used by these companies (or any other company that produces black castor oil) is closest to its purest form, hence the nutrients remain mostly untouched. And, when mixed with some of the other essential oils, you end with a wicked combination of hair goodness!
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| Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor oil |
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| Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor |
