Ingredient

Ricinus Communis Seed Oil (Black Castor Oil)

Ricinus communis

Castor oil is a potent cosmetic ingredient, used for thousands of years on the skin and hair.

Castor contains ricinoleic acid, an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial fatty acid that helps it soothe and look after sensitive skin. 

What is the difference between castor oil and black castor oil?

Both oils come from the same plant, Ricinus communis, meaning they have similar benefits. However, they are processed differently. To make black castor oil, also known as black Jamaican castor oil, castor seeds are roasted before they are turned into an oil. This extra step results in a thicker dark-coloured oil with a slight smoky aroma and a different composition to regular castor oil. 

What are the benefits of black castor oil?

• Moisturises and deep conditions hair
• Has cleansing antibacterial properties
• Soothes the skin and scalp
• Thicker texture, with a slightly smoky smell

You can read more about Castor here. 

Can black castor oil help hair grow?

Black Jamaican castor oil is particularly popular in beard and hair care products, because the ash from roasting alters its PH level, which is thought to encourage fuller-looking hair. There’s minimal scientific research on its effect on hair growth, but anecdotally, castor oil has long had a reputation for doing just that. This could be thanks to its balancing and soothing action on the scalp, which creates a good environment for hair follicles to develop strong, healthy hair. 

Where do we source black castor oil?

Our black castor oil is made from castor seeds grown in St Ann and May Pen, Jamaica. After harvesting, the beans are sun-dried, roasted, ground into a paste, and boiled to extract the oil, giving it a dark brown colour. Extraction is done naturally without the use of solvents or chemicals.