Castor oil is tasteless and odorless oil that is extracted from castor seeds obtained from the castor plant, which is scientifically known as ricinus communis. The health benefits of castor oil include relief from rheumatism, menstrual disorders, and constipation. It also helps in oral care, proper lactation, birth control, hair care, and skin care. Health benefits of castor oil rheumatism: the ricinoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and other fatty acids found in castor oil are very effective in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, and gout. They easily penetrate through the skin. Castor oil is many a times mixed with other medicines for rheumatism to facilitate their penetration and to enhance the effects. Birth control: castor oil contains a toxin called ricin (a protein) which, if administered in very low dosages, acts as a germicidal substance. Due to this property, it is also used as a spermicide in spermicidal gels, and lotions. If administered to pregnant women in higher dosages, it may also cause abortions. However, this second mode of birth control can be fatal for the mother too and is never recommended. Menstrual disorders: ricinoleic acid, present in castor oil, is an emmenagogue by nature and helps open menstruation in cases of delayed, painful, or obstructed menstruation. It also helps to relieve pain during menstruation.