Pharmaceutical Castor Oil contains high levels of ricinoleic acid (up to 90%), along with oleic, linoleic, and stearic acids, making it a pure, refined, and biocompatible oil used as a solvent, emulsifier, and vehicle for drugs due to its unique fatty acid profile, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, meeting USP/BP standards for use in capsules, ointments, and even injections.
Key Components:
- Ricinoleic Acid: The primary fatty acid (around 90%) responsible for its unique properties, polarity, and therapeutic effects.
- Other Fatty Acids: Contains smaller amounts of oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and palmitic acid.
- Triglycerides: The oil is a mixture of triglycerides, predominantly of ricinoleic acid.
Pharmaceutical Grades & Purity:
- Refined & Purified: Processed to remove impurities, meeting stringent pharmacopoeia standards (USP/BP/EP) for safety.
- Hexane-Free: Often cold-pressed and free from hexane, ensuring higher quality.
Pharmaceutical Uses:
Anti-inflammatory: Its ricinoleic acid content provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
Laxative: Stimulates intestinal muscles for temporary constipation relief.
Drug Delivery: Acts as a solubilizer and emulsifier for water-insoluble drugs, used in capsules, ointments, and emulsions.
Excipient: Functions as a lubricant, plasticizer, and carrier in various formulations, including IVs and eye drops.
