From the Research
Effect of Topical Castor Oil Application on Renal Function
There are no direct research papers to assist in answering this question. However, some studies provide information on the safety and efficacy of castor oil in various applications:
- Castor oil is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as generally recognized as safe and effective for use as a stimulant laxative 1.
- The Joint Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/World Health Organization (WHO) Expert Committee on Food Additives established an acceptable daily castor oil intake (for man) of 0 to 0.7 mg/kg body weight 1.
- Castor oil has been used to stimulate labor and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiherpetic properties due to the presence of ricinoleic acid 1, 2.
- Topical application of castor oil has been studied for its effects on skin conditions, such as infraorbital hyperpigmentation, and has been shown to be effective in reducing melanin levels and improving skin appearance 3.
- Castor oil has been compared to diclofenac sodium in the treatment of osteoarthritis and has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms with fewer adverse effects 4.
- However, none of these studies specifically address the effect of topical castor oil application on renal function.
Key Findings
- Castor oil is safe for use in various applications, including as a stimulant laxative and in cosmetic products 1.
- Castor oil has anti-inflammatory and antiherpetic properties due to the presence of ricinoleic acid 1, 2.
- Topical application of castor oil may be effective in reducing melanin levels and improving skin appearance 3.
- Castor oil may be a safe and effective alternative to diclofenac sodium in the treatment of osteoarthritis 4.