There is a growing buzz around using castor oil for the eyes, especially as a natural solution for dry and other eye-related issues. People swear by its moisturising properties and lubricating effects. But is this vegetable oil worth the hype? While many people claim that it can help with dryness and discomfort, there is no scientific evidence to back up these claims. Moreover, improper use of castor oil may lead to adverse effects like irritation, swelling, and other complications. This article explores the scientific reasoning behind castor oil for the eyes, explains the potential benefits and risks, how to use it properly, and offers insights into its effectiveness and safety. Read on to understand if it’s worth trying!
Is Castor Oil Safe For Eyes?
Yes. Castor oil can be safe for the eyes if used correctly and with necessary safety measures. However, it is essential to use high-quality, cold-pressed castor oil, specifically labelled as ‘safe for ophthalmic use’. Although castor oil has several advantages, it may also cause allergic reactions, irritation, or temporary blurry vision. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure your castor oil is formulated appropriately for your particular condition. Always consult an ophthalmologist before applying it in or around the eyes.
Types Of Castor Oils You Can Use For Eyes
It is essential to choose high-quality oil to ensure safety and avail the benefits of castor oil for the eyes. Here are some types of castor oils that are commonly recommended:
- Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil: It is extracted from castor seeds without using heat, which helps maintain its natural nutrients and purity during extraction. Because they do not contain any chemicals, organic castor oils are safe for sensitive areas like the eyes.
- Cosmetic-Grade Castor Oil: It is a refined and purified castor oil that meets specific quality standards for cosmetic use. It is free from impurities and designed for the eyes.
- Hexane-Free Castor Oil: It is extracted without using hexane (a chemical solvent commonly used in oil extraction), making it safer for delicate areas around the eyes.
Although these oils are safe for topical use, always do a patch test before applying them. This helps ensure there will not be an adverse response. Also, always read the label to ensure the oil is safe to use near the eyes. Speak with a medical practitioner or an eye expert if you have any questions or concerns about any particular condition.
Eye drops containing castor oil are widely used to manage symptoms of various eye conditions, including dehydrated eyes. Researchers have found that they may have several benefits. Let’s understand them in the next section.
Castor Oil Benefits For Eyes
Castor oil has been utilised as a natural remedy for several eye-related treatments and has several advantages.
1. May Help Treat Dry Eyes
Nearly 16 million people in the US have dry eyes. Castor oil has the potential to soothe the symptoms of this condition. It has lubricating properties and is widely used in eye drops. It helps create a protective barrier over the eye surface that may relieve the symptoms of dry eye conditions. According to one study, castor oil-containing eye drops could increase the lipid layer of the tears, reducing evaporation and keeping eyes moisturised, which helped to relieve dry eyes. However, more human studies are needed to understand the safety and efficacy of using castor oil for dry eyes.
2. May Help Improve Dark Circles
Castor oil’s moisturising properties may even help improve dark circles. There is no strong scientific evidence to support this claim, apart from a single study that found topical castor oil cream effective for reducing hyperpigmentation (dark spots) around the eyes. However, more clinical trials are required to substantiate this claim. Anecdotal evidence suggests that castor oil keeps the under-eye area moisturised. As a result, it may reduce dryness and help improve blood circulation, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
3. May Boost Eyelash Growth
Castor oil contains around 90% ricinoleic acid (a hydroxylated fatty acid), which has also been demonstrated to affect hair growth positively. It’s been used for ages to thicken eyelashes and boost eyelash hair growth. However, no concrete evidence demonstrates the efficacy of castor oil for eyelashes or explains the mechanism. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the fatty acids in the oil keep the eyelashes moisturised, which helps nourish hair follicles and stimulate hair growth.
4. May Help Treat Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eye condition that causes symptoms, such as dry eyes, redness, irritation, discomfort, and blurry vision. These glands in the eyelids produce oils to form the tear film on your eyes. A study published in an Ophthalmology journal found that low-concentration homogenised castor oil eye drops may help treat this condition by managing the symptoms.
5. May Help Reduce Blepharitis Symptoms
Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce symptoms of Blepharitis, which causes inflammation or swelling of the eyelid margins. A 2025 study, published in The Ocular Surface Journal, found that applying castor oil twice daily for 4 weeks may help reduce blepharitis symptoms. Castor oil has antibacterial properties, which may help reduce redness and irritation and prevent mild eye infections.
6. May Help Reduce Eye Puffiness
Castor oil is often touted as an effective natural remedy for reducing puffiness around the eyes due to its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. It has ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory effects. Anecdotal evidence suggests that massaging the area with the oil may help reduce swelling, promote blood circulation in the area around the eyes, and reduce puffiness.
7. May Reduce Wrinkles
Using castor oil on the face may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, especially those under the eyes. Castor oil is rich in fatty acids and exhibits emollient properties, which may help hydrate the skin and reduce the look of wrinkles under the eyes and Crow’s feet. The fatty acid in castor oil may penetrate the skin and moisturise it from deep within, which may help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
How To Use Castor Oil For Eyes
Here are some tips to follow while using castor oil for the eyes:
- Choose high-quality, cold-pressed, hexane-free castor oil labelled ‘safe for the eyes’.
- For dry eyes, you may use an eye drop containing castor oil. These drops are designed to provide the appropriate dosage and ensure safety for ocular use. Use a sterile dropper to put one drop into each eye whenever needed.
- Apply a small amount of cold-pressed castor oil to the area around the eyes. Gently dab the area with your fingers, paying attention to the regions with puffiness or dark circles.
- Apply a thin layer of organic, cold-pressed castor oil around the eyes, focusing on areas with wrinkles. Leave it on for a few minutes or overnight, and wash it off.
Side Effects Of Using Castor Oil For Eyes
Castor oil may cause potential adverse effects, especially if it is not handled correctly or is not of pharmaceutical grade. Here are some side effects of castor oil for the eyes:
- Castor oil eye drops may cause irritation and discomfort, as the oil contains ricinoleic acid, which may trigger hypersensitivity in the long term.
- Using non-sterile castor oil for the eyes may lead to allergic reactions like swelling or rashes and an increased risk of infection. Anecdotal evidence suggests the oil may clog tear ducts, leading to excessive tearing or dry eyes.
- Application of castor oil may cause temporary blurred vision, which usually resolves independently after some time.
- A blogger with dry eye condition shares her experience using castor oil on her eyes in her blog post. She says, “My routine has been putting a small amount of castor oil on my eyelids before sleeping. Wiping it off in the morning. Usually by midday and evening, my eyes feel like they are on fire. They can sting terribly, burn, be extremely red, and be so “exhausted” that I can sometimes hardly open my eyes.
This highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and avoid the risk of adverse reactions. Scroll down to learn more.
Precautions To Take While Using Castor Oil For Eyes
Here are some key safety measures you must follow:
- Always wash your hands and face thoroughly before using castor oil to avoid getting bacteria or other contaminants into your eyes.
- Before applying castor oil to your eyes, do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for allergic reactions.
- Remove contact lenses before using castor oil, and then wait at least 15-20 minutes before putting them back in.
- Start with a small amount of oil and observe how your eyes respond. If there are no adverse reactions, you can progressively increase the dosage.
- Watch for any signs of allergic reactions, redness, or irritation. If you experience discomfort after using castor oil, immediately discontinue it and consult a healthcare professional.
- Store castor oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain effectiveness.
Is It OK To Use Castor Oil For Eyes During Pregnancy?
While castor oil is generally considered to be safe to use during pregnancy, it is still advisable to proceed with caution and see a doctor before beginning any new treatment. It is also best to avoid consuming castor oil at this time because it has been known to induce labour.
Conclusion
Castor Oil For Eyes: is a popular natural remedy often touted for its potential therapeutic benefits for various eye issues. It is also used in eye drops that are commonly used for managing the symptoms of dry eyes. Castor oil is also said to reduce dark circles and address puffiness and inflammation around the eyes. All these benefits are claimed to be due to its ricinoleic acid content. While it might have some benefits, ricinoleic acid is also a potential irritant and might cause discomfort and hypersensitivity. Moreover, concrete scientific evidence regarding the positive effects of castor oil on the eyes is limited. Therefore, avoid using castor oil without consulting a doctor, especially if you have sensitive skin and pre-existing eye conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for castor oil to work for dry eyes?
Castor oil’s effectiveness for dry eyes may vary from person to person. Some people may find relief after a few hours of using it, while others may need to use it continuously for a few days or weeks to see a noticeable difference in the symptoms. You must use it as prescribed, usually one drop in each eye before bed.
Is castor oil like Botox?
No. Botox and castor oil are different; castor oil cannot yield the same results. Botox is a neurotoxin injection that temporarily paralyses muscles to decrease wrinkle formation instantly. At the same time, castor oil is a natural moisturiser that may help improve skin texture over time.
Is castor oil good for eye floaters?
There is no solid scientific evidence that supports the effects of castor oil on eye floaters. Consult an eye care expert and undergo an evaluation, as eye floaters are typically caused by changes in the vitreous fluid within the eye.
Does applying castor oil under the eyes cause milia?
Applying heavy oil, such as castor oil, under the eyes might cause milia. This is mainly because the oil might trap dirt and dead skin cells and clog the pores. Therefore, cleaning your skin properly to remove oil residue and using such occlusive oils sparingly is important.
Does castor oil improve eyesight?
No. No scientific evidence supports the claim that castor oil can help with eyesight. Although castor oil is often used in eye drops to reduce irritation and dryness, it has no therapeutic benefits for vision-related problems.
What happens if castor oil goes into the eyes?
If castor oil gets into the eyes, it may temporarily blur your vision and cause a greasy sensation. It may even trigger an allergic reaction and irritate your eyes. If castor oil gets into your eyes accidentally, wash them with warm water immediately. This should provide relief. However, immediately consult an eye care specialist if you still experience redness, irritation, or blurred vision.
Who should avoid castor oil for the eyes?
Castor oil should not be used by people with pre-existing eye conditions, individuals with sensitive skin, or those who are allergic to castor oil and its products.