If you’re of a certain age, chances are you’ve heard some pretty nasty things about castor oil, like that it tastes terrible and makes for a “powerful” laxative. Yikes. The younger set will recognize it for its purported ability to help grow magnificent eyebrows. (Sorry kids, science doesn’t back this up: https://www.allure.com/story/castor-oil-for-hair-growth.) No matter what, castor oil has some amazing benefits, like it: 

1. Can help heal wounds

2. Has Anti-inflammatory properties

3. May help with acne

4. Improves circulation

5. Reduces cellulite (What?! This one is news to me and I’m def going to try it out. I’ll report back.)

6. Has cleansing properties and produces a luxurious, creamy lather in soap

Castor oil is the third most used ingredient used in our soap. A little bit goes a long way with this powerful oil — we use just 3 ounces in a 3 pound batch of soap. It is rich in fats that act as humectants. (hu·mec·tant | \ hyü-ˈmek-tənt  \ Definition: a substance that promotes retention of moisture.) “Humectants retain moisture by preventing water loss through the outer layer of the skin.” 

Pipit & Finch’s soap recipe uses castor oil in place of palm oil. It’s important to us to offer soap that is palm free due to the destructive production practices surrounding palm oil. Through our partnership with One Tree Planted, we’re focused on reforestation, not deforestation. For more on the problems with palm oil and possible solutions, visit https://www.wwf.org.uk/updates/8-things-know-about-palm-oil.

Comment below if you have any favorite uses for castor oil.

p.s. You know I gotta say it, Pipit & Finch doesn’t make any claims to treat or cure skin conditions.