Should you join the #CastorOil TikTok trend? Doctors advise caution

We’ve long known castor oil as a key ingredient for luscious locks and Rapunzel hair dreams. But TikTok users have found a new hack, claiming castor oil can detoxify the body and aid in weight loss. Indianexpress.com spoke to experts to uncover the risks associated with this trend.

“Our body has its own detoxification mechanisms, so relying on anecdotal reports about using castor oil for it is ill-advised,” said Edwina Raj, head of services – clinical nutrition and dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. “Excessive use can lead to laxative abuse, resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, rapid breathing, nausea, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalances,” she said.

While castor oil has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties and is FDA-approved, Raj advised against self-administration. “The toxic impact is also due to the presence of ‘Ricinus communis,’ known to have a toxic chemical called ricin, which can cause symptoms of shock, inflammation, and gastrointestinal bleeding,” she said.

Our body has its own detoxification mechanisms, so relying on anecdotal reports about using castor oil for it is ill-advised,” said Edwina Raj (Source: Freepik)

“Castor oil, made from castor beans, is best known for its role as a laxative,” said Rizwana Sayyed, registered dietician at Apollo Clinic, Viman Nagar. “Ricinoleic acid is thought to be the component responsible for this effect, as it stimulates nerves in the gastrointestinal tract and increases intestinal secretions, allowing food to pass through more quickly,” she said.

Castor oil detox methods claim to remove toxins from the liver by strapping a cloth pack saturated in castor oil to the lower abdomen. However, Sayyed noted that castor oil does not detoxify the liver. Consuming it without medical guidance can cause cramps, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness.

She also warned that pregnant women should avoid consuming castor oil as it can cause the uterus to contract. Sayyed also advised against this practice for children under 12, adults over 60, and those with health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and appendicitis.

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