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Castor oil has long been reputed to promote the growth of strong, long, healthy hair. All castor oil is not created equal though. Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) and Traditional (Yellow) Castor Oil happen to be two versions that are very popular. More often than not, people tend to confuse one for the other or use them interchangeably. These two actually come from the same castor bean. Their processing methods and properties differ greatly.
Jamaican Black Castor Oil: Unique Processing and Deep Scalp Benefits
Jamaican Black Castor Oil rubs down the skin by roasting the castor beans before grinding and boiling them so as to extract the oil. The roasting process gives a dark color, and it develops a particular smell that is quite specific to it. What really makes JBCO different from normal castor oil is the content of ash—not only does it change the color but makes it more alkaline and mineralized.
The ash increases the pH level of the oil, hence making it more alkaline. Alkaline oil slightly opens up the hair cuticle and therefore allows for better penetration of the oil into the hair shaft and scalp. This condition is most preferable to people who have thick and coarse low-porosity hair because such type of hair repels moisture. JBCO has a higher pH that allows absorption to go deep down to the roots where it can effectively deliver ricinoleic acid in order to stimulate circulation as well as nourish hair follicles.
Also, JBCO has cleansing benefits. It breaks down residue and product buildup while treating scalp conditions such as itchiness and dandruff. People who have tightly curled or Afro-textured hair often use it because it moisturizes deeply and helps undo tangles at the same time making the hair stronger.
Traditional Castor Oil: A Gentler Option for Sensitive Scalps
Yellow castor oil is obtained by pressing the beans without roasting them. This produces a lighter oil that keeps a more neutral smell and has a somewhat lower pH. It does not harm the scalp therefore it is very good for people who have sensitive or irritated skin.
Cold-pressed yellow castor oil has never seen heat, therefore is able to retain more raw state nutrients from the plant. Cold-pressed organic castor oil has never seen heat, therefore is able to retain more raw state nutrients from the plant. Nutrients it shares with us include ricinoleic acid, vitamin E, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. These are the essential nutrients for hair growth benefits as well as anti-inflammatory properties that strengthen scalp health.
Nutrients it shares with us include ricinoleic acid, vitamin E, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. These are the essential nutrients for hair growth benefits as well as anti-inflammatory properties that strength scalp health.
Yellow castor oil does not have ash content, therefore it does not open the cuticle as much. People with fine, thin, or straight hair prefer this because their hair shows more signs of buildup or weighs down very easily. It is also very commonly used for Do-It-Yourself treatments and scalp massages because it gives a soft experience without giving a strong smoked scent or thick feeling.
To boost its powers, yellow castor oil may be mixed with other natural things. For instance, putting cacao powder—full of magnesium and flavonoids—can better blood flow to the scalp and strengthen hair roots, making the oil even more powerful for hair regrowth cures.
Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Traditional Castor Oil are great natural remedies for hair growth. The decision of which to use should depend on your type of hair and its condition. JBCO works best on coarse, dry, or thick hair because it penetrates deeply and cleanses well meanwhile traditional castor oil presents a milder nutrient-rich option for sensitive scalps and finer hair.
