Made from the castor seed, castor oil is high in triglycerides and ricinoleic acid. These two items make it a potent medicinal oil that can be used both internally and externally. For some, having castor oil is the cure-all to their ailments.

Good for the skin, digestion and hair, castor oil is a tried-but-true remedy. Check out the 7 things that castor oil can do for you. You may decide to become a faithful user of this vegetable oil.

1. Constipation

WebMD says that castor oil taken orally acts as a stimulant to the intestines which may aid in relieving constipation. Consult your doctor on dosage, though.

2. Relieve dry, itchy skin

Another great use for castor oil is hydrating dry skin. Medical News Today says that castor oil may contain a humectant, allowing it to draw moisture from the air to hydrate your skin. Whole New Mom offers an easy lotion recipe. Combine 3/4 cup shea butter, 4 tablespoons castor oil and 5 to 10 drops of lavender oil, Roman chamomile or carrot seed oil. Whip the shea butter and oil together to get the consistency you want. Add your essential oil and mix some more. Pack it into jars and use freely.

3. Clean face

Castor oil contains antimicrobial properties which may help prevent acne. It also is thick enough it won’t clog the pores and create blackheads. SC has several recipes for facial cleanser. For oily skin, you want to mix 1 part castor oil with 3 parts of safflower oil or primrose oil. For combination skin, mix 1 part castor oil with 4 parts Argan oil. For dry skin, mix 1 part castor oil with 10 parts Camellia oil.