Find out the differences between castor oil and Jamaican black castor oil plus how to choose the best one for hair growth.
Best organic castor oil for hair growth examined what makes castor oil suitable for hair growth as well as the best organic brands of castor oil.
Jamaican black castor oil (JBCO) is another type of castor oil, which also helps with hair growth.
However, there’s some debate on the differences between the two, if any as well as the effectiveness of one over the other.
The Differences Between Castor Oil & Jamaican Black Castor Oil
1. Color
Castor oil is a clear light yellow liquid while Jamaican black castor oil is dark brown to blackish in color.
2. Processing Method
Castor oil is cold-pressed from the seeds while the castor seeds are roasted, ground, and boiled first before being cold-pressed for Jamaican black castor oil.
3. Pricing
Castor oil is slightly cheaper than Jamaican black castor oil because the processing method for JBCO is more labor-intensive.
4. Availability
Castor oil is more readily available than Jamaican black castor oil. You can find castor oil in most supermarkets and pharmacies.
5. Purposes
Castor oil can also be used for medicinal purposes – as a laxative or to relieve constipation while Jamaican black castor oil wouldn’t be consumed internally.
Is Castor Oil More Effective than Jamaican Black Castor Oil?
There has been no scientific evidence to prove that one works more than the other. Personally, I’ve used both and the results are the same.
I use JBCO for my scalp massages because I like the smell for some reason.
For the LOC/LCO method and use in a pre-poo mix, I prefer the clear castor oil.
For hot oil treatments, I tend to mix equal amounts of the two into the hot oil concoction.
Which Castor Oil is the Best?
There are some castor oils on the market that have been adulterated with mineral oil and other additives so check the ingredient list thoroughly before purchase.
I’ve made the best recommendations for clear castor oil at Best Organic Castor Oil for Hair Growth.
For Jamaican black castor oil (JBCO), some dubious manufacturers have been known to add dark rye to clear castor oil to make it look like JBCO.
The top recommendations for JBCO are – Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil.
TROPIC ISLE LIVING JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL
SUNNY ISLE JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL
If you enjoyed this post, you’ll be interested in The Ultimate Hair Growth Guide, a comprehensive tool for recovering from hair loss, regrowing bald spots, and filling in thin areas of your scalp.
There’s a whole chapter in the book dedicated to using oils for hair growth. Learn more and grab your discounted copy HERE.
More Healthy Hair Growth Resources
- How to Grow Your Hair Healthy & Long with Natural Oils
- Tea Rinsing Secrets for Healthy Hair Care & Growth
- 365 Days of Moisture for Dry and Parched Hair
- Natural Butters for Hair: A Guide for Creating Recipes for Healthy Hair
More Jamaican Black Castor Oil Articles
Regrow Bald Spots with Jamaican Black Castor Oil
The science behind regrowing bald spots with Jamaican black castor oil plus recipes and before and after pictures...
How to Grow Longer & Thicker Hair with Jamaican Black Castor Oil
Jamaican black castor oil can help thicken hair strands in addition to improving healthy hair growth. See recipes and best recommendations...
Reader Question: Jamaican Black Castor Oil Causing Breakage & Shedding
A reader is surprised Jamaican black castor oil appears to be causing breakage and shedding and wants to know what she's doing wrong plus how to rectify it...
This post contains affiliate links which means I will make a small commission if you purchase through those links. Read full disclosure HERE.
Sharon Shaw
Sunday 16th of January 2022
I have used castor oil every night for the past week to help my thinning hair. It works! My hair is shinier, a bit thicker and growing. I have noticed the oil is darkening my hair a little. Is this usual? Might it get too dark?
Haircare | Fitness | Beauty
Sunday 16th of January 2022
Hmmm, JBCO shouldn't darken the hair. What brand of JBCO is this? What's your original hair color?