Is It Safe To Use Castor Oil For Eyes?
Yes. Castor oil contains powerful fatty acids and other antioxidants that can benefit your eyes (3), (4). But it is always best to use safer castor oil products available particularly for your ailment, which are sterile and chemical-free. You can procure them following an appointment with an ophthalmologist. The American Academy of Ophthalmology doesn’t recommend the use of just about any castor oil (or any other non-sterile material) for the eyes (5). It recommends the use of safer products for your eyes. Simply put – please discuss the remedies we mention here with your ophthalmologist and use the castor oil that he/she recommends. The only issues are sterility and safety, which may not be matters of major concern with your nearest supermarket store. Because they may not care about your vision health. But your ophthalmologist does. Which takes us to our next section.
What Type Of Castor Oil Is Good For Your Eyes?
Whatever your ophthalmologist recommends. Though there are different types of castor oil, the one that works best for your eyes is cold pressed castor oil. This type of castor oil involves pressing organic seeds without adding heat. It has the maximum nutrients and comes in two varieties – refined and unrefined. Refined has its impurities removed. Use 100% organic castor oil for eyes. Also, ensure it is ‘hexane-free’. There are other varieties of cold pressed castor oil that your doctor might recommend – these can include pharmaceutical grade castor oil or sterile castor oil. But like we said, go by what your ophthalmologist recommends. Post that, you can go by these benefits.
What Are The Benefits Of Castor Oil For Eyes?
The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil (thanks to the ricinoleic acid) help reduce redness and swelling of the eyes (4). The oil also soothes the skin, and this can help reduce wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.
1. Treats Eye Allergies
Castor oil encourages lipid production in the eyes and inhibits the evaporation of tears, treating dry eyes (1). And the anti-inflammatory properties of the oil help treat allergies and eye redness (6).
2. Treats Bloodshot Eyes
This condition is a severe form of redness, where you might also see red veins in your eyes. The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil can help ease bloodshot eyes.
3. Might Supplement Cataract Treatment
Severe forms of cataract require surgery, and there is no other way. Not yet. But you can use castor oil to accelerate recovery post surgery or even use it before surgery to reduce damage.
4. Treats Itchy/Irritated Eyes
The oil works as a great moisturizing agent, and this helps treat itchy eyes (1).
5. Treats Puffy Eyes
Pour two drops of castor oil on your fingertip. Gently apply to the puffed up areas under your eyes before bedtime. Wash your face the next morning. Repeat this every night – you will see results in a few days. The same remedy can work well for sunken eyelids as well. The soothing properties of castor oil benefit you in this regard.
6. Treats Swollen Eyes
Also called blepharitis, this condition causes inflammation or swelling of the eyelids (7). Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.
7. Removes Under-Eye Dark Circles
The important fatty acids in the oil nourish the skin and lighten dark circles.
8. Reduces Wrinkles Around The Eyes
The emollient properties of castor oil can help reduce wrinkles around the eyes. You can also use rose water instead of a facial toner. Rosewater and castor oil work wonders for the eyes and skin. Continue this remedy every day until you see visible results.
9. Thickens Your Eyebrows
The proteins and fatty acids in castor oil nourish the hair follicles and promote eyebrow growth. Can we use castor oil for eyes daily? Check out the infographic below to discover how castor oil works and how it can improve your eye health. Yes. Castor oil can be applied multiple times a day and can help lower inflammation, manage dry eyes, and deal with an infection. However, consult your ophthalmologist before use. Which oil is best for use under the eyes? Castor oil, almond oil, lavender oil, tea tree oil, and fennel oil are some of the oils good for use under the eyes. They also help manage under-eye dark circles. Can I put oil in my eyes? Yes, but only a few drops. Oils are rich in essential fatty acids and nutrients that are beneficial for supporting the vision and managing eye health issues like dry eyes.
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