Jojoba oil has become a popular ingredient in skincare and haircare products due to its versatile nature and numerous benefits.
It is known for its deep moisturizing properties, ability to condition hair, and reduction of blemishes.
However, there are concerns about the safety of jojoba oil if ingested.
While it is generally considered safe for topical use, ingesting jojoba oil can lead to serious side effects such as heart damage.
In this article, we will explore the potential toxicity of jojoba oil when consumed and discuss its other side effects.
Read on to learn more about this popular ingredient and whether it is safe for internal use.
Is Jojoba Oil Toxic If Ingested?
Jojoba oil is not intended for internal use and should only be applied topically to the skin or hair. Ingesting jojoba oil can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, restlessness, and dry eyes.
This is because jojoba oil contains a chemical called erucic acid, which can be toxic to the heart and other organs if consumed in large amounts.
While absolute contraindications have not been identified, it is important to note that jojoba oil should not be ingested by humans due to potential toxicity.
What Is Jojoba Oil?
Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the Jojoba plant (Simmondsia chinensis). It is the only unsaturated liquid wax that can be extracted in large quantities from plant sources, making it a valuable commodity in various industries. The Jojoba plant is native to North and Central American deserts but is now cultivated worldwide in countries such as Chile, Egypt, and Argentina.
Jojoba oil has been used for centuries by Native Americans for various purposes, including as a foodstuff and as a therapeutic for multiple ailments such as cancer therapy, liver and kidney disorders, obesity, parturition, sore throat, superficial wound healing, warts, psoriasis, acne, sunburn, and treatment of poison ivy exposure.
In modern times, jojoba oil is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry and cosmetics to restore the natural health of hair and skin. It is also used in various industrial applications such as an extreme temperature/extreme pressure lubricant, extraction and separation of isotopes such as Uranium (VI), Thorium (IV), and Plutonium (IV), and as a surfactant, fire retardant, lamp oil, candle wax, polishes, and antifoaming agents in isolation of penicillin and tetracycline.
Despite its numerous benefits when used externally, jojoba oil can cause some side effects when ingested. It is essential to note that jojoba oil should not be ingested by humans due to potential toxicity. If consumed in large amounts, it can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, restlessness, dry eyes, and even heart damage. Therefore, it is crucial to use jojoba oil only as directed and keep it out of reach from children or pets who might accidentally ingest it.
The Benefits Of Jojoba Oil For Skin And Hair
Jojoba oil has a wide range of benefits for both skin and hair. When applied topically, jojoba oil can help to moisturize and soften the skin, while also promoting wound healing and reducing the appearance of scars.
One of the most notable benefits of jojoba oil is its ability to reduce acne and other facial blemishes. It does this by reducing inflammation and trapping moisture in the skin, which can help to prevent the buildup of oils and bacteria that lead to pimples and blackheads. Additionally, jojoba oil is noncomedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores, making it a great choice for those with acne-prone skin.
Jojoba oil is also effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe dry and itchy skin, while its high levels of vitamin E may help prevent flare-ups of these conditions.
When it comes to hair care, jojoba oil can be used as a natural conditioner to help soften and strengthen hair. Its emollient properties make it an effective treatment for dandruff, as it helps to trap moisture in the scalp and prevent flakiness. Additionally, the antioxidants present in jojoba oil can help to promote hair growth and prevent damage from environmental stressors.
Is Jojoba Oil Safe For Ingestion?
No, jojoba oil is not safe for ingestion. Ingesting jojoba oil can cause serious symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, restlessness, and dry eyes. This is because jojoba oil contains erucic acid, which can be toxic to the heart and other organs if consumed in large amounts.
It is important to note that jojoba oil is intended for external use only and should not be ingested. While studies report no acute toxicity when jojoba oil is ingested or applied topically, there could be potential for an allergic reaction.
If you are interested in using jojoba oil for its skincare or haircare benefits, it is crucial to ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality product that is 100% pure, organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined. It is also advisable to perform an allergy test on a small patch of your skin before using jojoba oil for the first time.
As with any health care product or supplement, it is recommended to check with your doctor or dermatologist before adding jojoba oil to your skin or hair routine.
Toxicity Of Jojoba Oil When Consumed
Studies have shown that the constituents of jojoba oil can be toxic when consumed. Hematological toxicity and histological abnormalities have been observed in animal studies, indicating potential adverse effects on the blood and organs.
Furthermore, erucic acid, a chemical found in jojoba oil, has been linked to serious side effects such as heart damage. This makes ingesting jojoba oil particularly dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.
It is important to note that while jojoba oil is generally considered safe for topical use, it should never be consumed internally. Anyone experiencing symptoms after ingesting jojoba oil should seek medical attention immediately.
Other Side Effects Of Ingesting Jojoba Oil
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, ingesting jojoba oil can also cause hematological toxicity and histological abnormalities. These side effects have been demonstrated in studies, indicating that the toxicity of jojoba oil is not just limited to its effects on the digestive system.
It is important to note that the toxicity of jojoba oil is dose-dependent, meaning that the severity of the side effects will depend on the amount ingested. However, even small amounts of jojoba oil ingested over a long period of time can cause harm to the body.
Therefore, it is crucial to avoid ingesting jojoba oil in any form and to only use it externally as directed. If you experience any adverse reactions after using jojoba oil, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
How To Safely Use Jojoba Oil
To safely use jojoba oil, it is recommended to only apply it topically to the skin or hair. Before using jojoba oil for the first time, it may be a good idea to perform an allergy test on a small patch of your skin to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction. If you experience any itching, redness, hives, or shortness of breath, stop using the oil immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
It is also important to keep in mind that jojoba oil should not be ingested by humans. Ingesting jojoba oil can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, restlessness, and dry eyes due to its content of erucic acid. Therefore, it is crucial to only use jojoba oil externally and avoid ingesting it.
