The only drawback as far as I can tell with using castor oil is that its so hard to get off your skin. I've always used paper towels first then washed and washed my hands and whatever part the C.O. is on even after all that my skin still feels sticky.
Today I got the biggest part off with a paper towel then used a handmade soap I bought at the local fair this summer. Its oatmeal/almond and its got real oatmeal in it. I only had to wash my hands one time! It got every tiny little sticky stuff off my hands!!! YAY!!! And they feel soooo soft too!