Generality of Castor oil: an explanation.
In my previous article on castor oil, I introduced the topic well with a brief interpretation. Check the article on:
https://africanutritionscience.wordpress.com/2020/04/21/castor-oil-the-magic-oil-part-1/
There are so many myths, claims and a few truths about castor oil role in nutrition and medicine.
Traditional uses of castor oil
Castor oil has been used as a traditional constipation remedy since civilisation started with references made to earlier civilisations in Egypt and other areas.
Castor oil is also used as a cure or relief medication for stomach and digestive problems like bloating, indigestion and inflammation.
Applications of castor oil
Castor oil in nutritional health
Castor oil is used in treatment of digestive issues. Some studies have shown castor oil to cause the inhibition of water and electrolyte absorption in the gut. Castor oil has also been shown to cause stimulation of water secretion into the intestinal lumen. Other scholars have highlighted that castor oil has been shown to depress small bowel contractile activity.
Conjugated fatty acids from castor oil, have been identified as a novel type of biologically, physiologically and pharmaceutically beneficial functional lipid.
Castor oil role in weight loss
Orally ingested castor oil is carthatic, which has been traditionally attributed to irritant or stimulatory effects of ricinoleic acid on the gastrointestinal smooth muscle.
The ricinoleic acid liberated in the small intestine by the action of pancreatic lipase.
Absorption of ricinoleic acid occurs incompletely in the gut, substantial quantities remain in the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
Since diet palatability is not affected by presence of castor oil. The poor absorption of ricinoleic acid and its potential to reduce absorption of other fatty acids could be responsible for the absence of body weight gain from consumption of castor oil containing diet.
Medicinal uses of castor oil
Castor oil is used as a cleansing laxative and purgative in the medicinal industry. Castor oil is FDA approved as a direct food additive for use as a flavouring agent or adjuvant.
Castor oil can be used to produce conjugated linoleic acid which has been used to:
1. Reduce carcinogenesis
2. Body fats reduction
3. Arteriosclerosis reduction
Castor oil have been shown to cause fat loss and lean gain in humans. Evidence show change of low density lipoprotein/ high density lipoprotein cholesterol rations in rabbits.
Nutritional values of castor oil
Like many vegetable oils, castor oil contains 120 calories per tablespoon. Recommended doses for carthatic adults is 15 to 60 ml. This dosage has been shown to have laxative effects.
Castor oil is a very strong stimulant laxative that offers no nutritional benefits (livestrong.com).
Cautions about castor oil
You should avoid taking castor oil without a doctor’s prescription or recommendation.
Avoid castor oil when pregnant because the natural laxative property causes painful contractions and cramping that may cause premature labour.
Also avoid taking unprocessed or poorly processed castor oil.
The American Cancer Society indicates that some people may be allergic to castor oil.
This is all for the day. Feel free to comment, add suggestions or concerns. Remember to follow us on social media from the home page.
References
American Cancer Society, Castor oil
livestrong.com
healthline.com
Klucky's Nutrition Reviews 