A dangerous TikTok trend is gaining momentum as experts warn of dire consequences. Castor oil has become a social media craze, with posts using the hashtag “#Castoroil” being shared more than 60,000 times.
The seed oil from this plant is highly regarded as a remedy for hair growth and complexion problems, and TikTok creators say it can also “detoxify” the body. Aside from detoxifying, they also recommend drinking the oil to help with weight loss and fighting off serious illnesses.
But experts don’t think so: They say castor oil, extracted from castor beans, can cause “severe diarrhea.”
Castor oil consumption may increase risk of ‘dehydration and electrolyte imbalance’
“The most dangerous myths I see time and time again on platforms like TikTok, not just from creators themselves but especially in the comments sections, are that 1) castor oil cures all diseases, including cancer, and 2) castor oil is a miracle weight loss treatment,” Jane Clark, a continence nurse at The Confidence Club, told Newsweek. “There is no scientific evidence that castor oil has any effect on any serious disease, including cancer. This is completely false and these myths are harmful.”
Because the oil is such a powerful laxative, frequent use can pose serious health risks: “It’s likely to lead to malnutrition, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance,” Clark said.
“When ingested, castor oil activates prostaglandin receptors, causing rapid contractions that push contents out of the small intestine at high speeds without giving them time to fully digest the contents and form solid stool,” Clark added. “Castor oil also inhibits water absorption in the intestine, accelerating bowel movements and increasing the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.”
These side effects can include “severe diarrhea,” nausea and vomiting, Clark said. “For this reason, despite what TikTok influencers would have you believe, it’s best to avoid taking castor oil altogether.”
She adds: “In the past, castor oil was used medically as a laxative to cure constipation and to induce labour in pregnant women who were past their due date. However, it is no longer recommended for these purposes due to safety concerns. In fact, in 2024, we no longer need to rely on the same laxatives that the ancient Egyptians needed. Medicine has advanced and there are now safer options.”
Clark added that the oil is safe for external use, though he noted that “putting it on your belly button won’t cure you and it may stain your clothes.”
