All About Castor Oil

Also known as Palm Christi Oil, there are many uses for castor oil. Castor oil has a long history of traditional medical use dating back to ancient Egypt. Here is a short list of the many uses:

Hair growth - known as a hair growth oil, it helps stimulate hair growth and promotes thicker hair, eyebrows, eyelashes. (avoid using in areas that you do not want hair to regrow)
Healer - promotes healing of wounds and cure ailments. Contains anti-inflammatory properties that help with arthritis, sore muscles, skin infections and other skin problems such as sunburn, abrasions, acne, dry skin, boils, warts, stretch marks, stye, and scars.
Moisturizer - Acts as a humectant by attracting and retaining moisture to skin/scalp.Helps prevent wrinkles and keep the skin looking youthful.

We use castor oil in our hair oil products.

Here are some great recipes that you could use at home.

Facial cleanser (early am):
(you can adjust based on your skin type..more EVOO the drier your skin, normal skin equal amounts of both oils)

Since I have oily skin I use:
3 oz castor oil 
1 oz extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

Pour a small amount into palms of hands. Gently rub onto dry skin (do not wet or clean before). Wet a washcloth with hot water and steam the face with the washcloth for a few seconds (40-60sec). Wipe the oil off the face. Do not try to wash with a "soap" cleanser until later in the evening.

Cuticle soother/antifungal nails:
4oz warm castor oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops geranium essential oil
5 drops tea tree essential oil

Add warm castor oil to a dish, add essential oils. Soak fingernails for 5 to 10 minutes. Great to use following a manicure.

Stye Treatment
Add a small drop to stye 2 to 3 times a day

Precautions and warnings
Raw castor oil from the plant may contain deadly poisons, please be sure to buy detoxified castor oil. Most commercial castor oil had been detoxified. Castor oil is normally safe in moderation. Castor oil can induce labor in pregnant and lactating women. People with intestinal blockage, acute inflammatory intestinal disease, appendicitis, or abdominal pain should not take castor oil without their doctor's approval.

All About Patchouli

Patchouli has been around for centuries for its healing properties. Patchouli is a plant native to Asia and is part of the mint family. Patchouli has an earthy strong aroma. This herb has many beneficial uses ranging from cosmetics to medicinal uses. Patchouli is mostly used for it's aroma in a variety of products ranging from perfumes to paper towels. Here at Brown Sugar Naturals, we use patchouli for both the aromatherapy and medicinal uses. We will explore the many different uses of Patchouli.

Medicinal Uses

antidepressant

relaxation

colds

nausea

diarrhea

abdominal pain

venomous snake bites

balance endocrine system

combat fatigue

anxiety

Cosmetic Uses

antiseptic

anti fungal

dandruff relief

dry skin relief

deodorant

athlete's foot

mild acne

eczema

conditioner for locs (dreadlocks)

Other Uses:

insect repellent

spiritual

clairvoyance

physical strength

Cautions:

Do not use Patchouli in large doses since it is a powerful sedative.