512-668-9918
Castor Oil Overview
Castor oil is a natural oil obtained from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant (castor bean plant). It is also known as ricinus oil, palma christi oil, or castor seed oil and has pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and manufacturing uses. Thanks to its viscosity, excellent lubricity, and unique chemical composition, it serves as a useful and indispensable product in many industries.
Cold-pressed and refined castor oil has been employed for thousands of years because of its anti-inflammatory, emollient and lubricating effects. Nowadays, castor oil plays an important role in laxatives, skin creams, hair conditioners, lubricants, coatings and most unusual biodiesel.
Because of its versatility, and plant-based origins, castor oil has a growing global demand and is expected to exceed a $1.8 billion market value by 2028. This article describes the properties, uses, and sourcing considerations associated with castor oil so you can assess which grade of castor oil to incorporate into your process and products.
An Overview of the Properties of Castor Oil
Castor oil has a distinct chemical profile that differentiates it from other vegetable oils. Its high concentration of ricinoleic acid gives it unique physical and chemical properties that influence how it performs in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial formulations. By knowing these key properties, formulators and buyers can evaluate its performance, compatibility, and stability in different applications.
Key Facts About Castor Oil:
- Compound Name: Castor Oil
- Synonyms: Ricinus oil, Oil of Palma Christi, Castor seed oil
- Chemical Nature: Mixture of triglycerides, primarily containing ricinoleic acid (a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid
- Main compound: Ricinoleic acid
- Chemical formula (ricinoleic acid): C₁₈H₃₄O₃
- CAS Numbers:
- Castor oil (whole): 8001-79-4
- Ricinoleic acid: 141-22-0
- Molar Mass:
- Castor oil: Not applicable (mixture)
- Ricinoleic acid: 298.49 g/mol
- Appearance: Pale yellow to nearly colorless viscous liquid with a smooth texture and mild characteristic odor
Density
Castor oil’s density ranges between 0.960 and 0.970 g/cm³ at 20 °C. This is a higher density than most vegetable oils and therefore contributes to its performance in lubricating and thickening applications.
Boiling and Melting Points
The boiling point of castor oil is around 313 °C (595 °F), making it suitable for use in high-temperature industrial and mechanical processes. Its melting point ranges from -10 °C to -18 °C (14 °F to 0 °F), which allows it to remain liquid in typical storage and handling environments.
Castor Oil is a vital ingredient in skin treatments and skincare products. Skincare and dermatology labs in the United States looking for Castor Oil, call Lab Alley at 512-668-9918 to order the ideal size and grade for your application.
Solubility Profile
Castor oil is insoluble in water. Its long hydrocarbon chains and hydrophobic nature prevent it from mixing with aqueous systems, making it an excellent choice for water-repellent formulations.
Castor oil is also soluble in alcohol, chloroform, ether, acetic acid, and other organic solvents. This profile enables its use in a wide range of organic formulations and chemical processes, including cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
pH Level
Because castor oil is non-aqueous, it does not have a measurable pH value. It is considered neutral and skin-compatible when formulated correctly, which contributes to its popularity in personal care products.
Reactivity
The hydroxyl groups present in ricinoleic acid make castor oil chemically reactive and versatile. It is commonly used in esterification processes for plasticizers and lubricants, transesterification for biodiesel production, and polymerization for creating polyurethanes and resins.
While it blends well with many oils and additives, Castor oil should be stored away from strong oxidizing agents to prevent degradation or unsafe reactions.
Castor Oil sold by Lab Alley comes in multiple grades and sizes, ranging from 500mL to 55-gallon drums.
Lab Alley
Staff Writer
Related Articles
Uses & Benefits
Thanks to its rich composition and multifunctional properties, castor oil is an important ingredient across industries, ranging from large-scale manufacturing to personal care products. It is a valuable choice for formulators looking for performance, stability, and plant-based solutions.
Industrial Applications
In manufacturing, castor oil serves as a raw material for lubricants, greases, and coatings. It delivers performance in high-temperature and high-stress environments. In paints and varnishes, castor oil acts as a plasticizer and stabilizer, improving flexibility and durability.
The polymer industry uses castor oil to produce polyurethanes, nylon 11, and bio-based plastics. Adhesives and sealants include castor oil for better adhesion, elasticity, and chemical resistance.
Scientific & Laboratory Uses
In laboratories, castor oil works as a reagent and carrier medium for organic synthesis and chemical processing. It provides stability in pH-controlled formulations and helps adjust viscosity in experimental products. Castor oil also serves as an embedding medium for microscopy and supports research on drug delivery, bio-lubrication, and biopolymer performance.
Consumer & Household Uses
In the consumer market, castor oil has a long history of use in skin and hair care products. You can find it in moisturizers, shampoos, soaps, and hair oils, where it helps retain hydration and adds shine. For home care, pharmaceutical-grade castor oil is traditionally used as a laxative under medical supervision. It is also applied topically as a massage oil or to help soothe sore muscles.
Specialized Applications
Castor oil has important roles in several specialized fields. In pharmaceuticals for instance, castor oil acts as an excipient in oral and topical medications and as a vehicle for injectable drugs.
In cosmetics, it is common in lipsticks, conditioners, and cleansing products. On the other hand, agriculture relies on castor oil as a natural pesticide and fungicide and in some soil treatments. And in food processing, food-grade castor oil serves as a mold inhibitor and release agent for baking.
Beyond the Salon: Surprising Ways to Use Acetone Around the House
Beyond the salon: Acetone is a versatile solvent for sticky residue, ink stains, and degreasing.
Can You Gargle Hydrogen Peroxide?
Can you gargle hydrogen peroxide? Learn safe usage for whitening and mouth care.
Impress Your Students with Elephant Toothpaste
Elephant Toothpaste: A safe, simple, and exciting classroom experiment using potassium iodide.
You’ll Never Guess the Key Ingredient in Soda
Discover phosphoric acid's secret role in soda! Enhances flavor, stabilizes color, and preserves.
Personal Care Products
Ethanol is a common ingredient in many cosmetics and beauty products.1 It acts as an astringent to help clean skin, as a preservative in lotions and to help ensure that lotion ingredients do not separate, and it helps hairspray adhere to hair.
Because ethanol is effective in killing microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses, it is a common ingredient in many hand sanitizers. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of hand sanitizers in situations where soap and water are not available.2 Practicing hand hygiene is also an important part of helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. Using hand sanitizers or alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR) can help to inactivate SARS-CoV-2, the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Household Products
Ethanol mixes easily with water and many organic compounds and makes an effective solvent for use in paints, lacquers and varnish, as well as personal care and household cleaning products. As an additive to cleaning products, ethanol is also used as a preservative because it is effective in knocking out organisms that could pose a danger to consumers.3
Food Additives
As a food additive, ethanol can help evenly distribute food coloring, as well as enhance the flavor of food extracts. For example, vanilla extract, a common food flavoring, is made by curing and processing vanilla beans in a solution of ethanol and water. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only allows vanilla to be called “extract” when it has an alcohol or ethanol base.4
Fuel
More than 98 percent of U.S. gasoline contains ethanol, typically in a mixture called E10, made up of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline, to oxygenate the fuel and reduce air pollution.5) Ethanol has a higher octane number than gasoline, providing premium blending properties, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.5 Minimum octane number requirements prevent engine knocking and maintain drivability.
Safety Information
Castor oil has a low hazard profile compared to many other industrial chemicals. It is non-flammable, non-corrosive, and generally well-tolerated when used correctly.
Keep in mind that prolonged or repeated skin contact can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals and ingesting large amounts has a laxative effect. Avoid inhaling mists or aerosolized forms of the oil.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
It’s important to use basic protective equipment when handling castor oil in industrial or laboratory settings: wear nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves to protect your skin and use safety goggles or a face shield when handling large volumes or if splashing is possible.
A lab coat or protective apron can provide additional protection during handling. Make sure to work in well-ventilated areas, especially when heating the oil or working with sprays and mists.
Storage Guidelines
Castor oil should be stored at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Keep it in tightly sealed, inert containers such as HDPE or glass bottles. Protect it from heat and direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
While castor oil is stable under normal conditions, exposure to air over time can lead to oxidation. Keep it away from strong oxidizing agents to prevent unwanted chemical reactions.
Spill & Disposal Procedures
In the event of a spill, absorb the oil using inert materials like sand, earth, or commercial absorbents. Clean the affected area thoroughly with detergent and water. Prevent large quantities from entering drains or natural water sources.
Dispose of small amounts as non-hazardous waste according to local regulations. For larger volumes, use a licensed waste disposal contractor and follow regional and federal guidelines.
For more detailed information, including first aid instructions, ecological data, and regulatory compliance, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for castor oil.
How to Safely Dispose of Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is one of the most common acidifying reagents and sulfur sources, essential across multiple industries. At the same time, it is also a toxic and highly hazardous chemical reagent, requiring safe handling and disposal by trained personnel.
Acetone Safety: Proper Storage and Disposal Methods
Acetone is a staple chemical solvent in most laboratories. It is also perhaps one of the most recognizable chemicals to the layperson, best known as the pungent solvent comprising nail polish remover.
Personal Care Products
Ethanol is a common ingredient in many cosmetics and beauty products.1 It acts as an astringent to help clean skin, as a preservative in lotions and to help ensure that lotion ingredients do not separate, and it helps hairspray adhere to hair.
Because ethanol is effective in killing microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses, it is a common ingredient in many hand sanitizers. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of hand sanitizers in situations where soap and water are not available.2 Practicing hand hygiene is also an important part of helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. Using hand sanitizers or alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR) can help to inactivate SARS-CoV-2, the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Household Products
Ethanol mixes easily with water and many organic compounds and makes an effective solvent for use in paints, lacquers and varnish, as well as personal care and household cleaning products. As an additive to cleaning products, ethanol is also used as a preservative because it is effective in knocking out organisms that could pose a danger to consumers.3
Food Additives
As a food additive, ethanol can help evenly distribute food coloring, as well as enhance the flavor of food extracts. For example, vanilla extract, a common food flavoring, is made by curing and processing vanilla beans in a solution of ethanol and water. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only allows vanilla to be called “extract” when it has an alcohol or ethanol base.4
Fuel
More than 98 percent of U.S. gasoline contains ethanol, typically in a mixture called E10, made up of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline, to oxygenate the fuel and reduce air pollution.5) Ethanol has a higher octane number than gasoline, providing premium blending properties, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.5 Minimum octane number requirements prevent engine knocking and maintain drivability.
Ethanol For Extraction
You can order food grade ethanol, extraction grade ethanol, ACS grade ethanol, FCC grade ethanol, USP grade ethanol, HPLC grade ethanol and kosher ethanol from Lab Alley. Perform ethanol (EtOH) extraction at ultra-low temperatures for the best yields.
Ethanol extraction is a cost-effective way to use ethanol as an industrial solvent to produce high quality botanical extracts from large volumes of medicinal herbs or plants.