The claim: This article via theheartysoul.com recommends using castor oil to resolve a variety of ailments. It also promotes the oil for its supposed ability to prevent hair loss, thicken eyebrows and lashes, and encourage new hair growth.

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Fake or fact: Half-fake

Why: Like a lot of plant-based oils, there are many health benefits to castor oil, says Fusco. "Castor oil is rich in minerals, proteins, and omega fatty acids," she explains. She also notes that the oil has natural antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

"When applied to scalp and hair, it might be helpful in reducing build-up of dead skin cells, and [hydrating] the scalp," Fusco says. But would it actually prevent hair loss? "If someone is losing hair due to extensive build-up of dead skin cells, this would help," she responds.

However, if you've got normal, healthy hair, don't count on castor oil to make it thicker or speed its growth.

"[Castor oil's] omega-9 fatty acids can certainly help keep hair well-nourished and prevent it from drying out and breaking," says Sobel. "This will help maintain the hair growth you already have, but there are no studies to show that it can stimulate new hair growth."

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