Castor Oil
Castor oil is a natural vegetable oil used as a laxative to relieve temporary constipation by stimulating bowel movements.
Castor oil is a natural laxative that stimulates bowel movements to provide short-term relief from constipation.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A06AB02
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Castor Oil
- Class
- atc-a06
- Brands
- Optase, Venelex
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical, oral
- Forms
- liquid oil, soft capsules
- Regions
- United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, Germany, France
- Monitoring
- electrolyte balance, hydration status
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Temporary constipation relief, bowel preparation for medical procedures, and occasionally used topically for minor skin irritation, dryness, and as a hair and scalp treatment.
Castor oil works primarily as a stimulant laxative. When taken orally, it is metabolized in the intestines into ricinoleic acid, which stimulates the muscles of the intestines (peristalsis) and increases fluid secretion, promoting bowel movements typically within 2-6 hours.
Not recommended for long-term use as it can lead to dependency and electrolyte imbalances. Should not be used during pregnancy due to risk of uterine stimulation, or by individuals with intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. May cause abdominal cramping. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy