Frequently Asked Questions About CastorClear
1. What is CastorClear used for?
CastorClear is a petroleum-free balm designed for multi-purpose self-care. Use it as part of your bedtime routine as a chest rub, add a small amount to hot water for a steam inhalation ritual, or massage into your neck and shoulders to wind down at the end of the day. It’s a clean, plant-based alternative to conventional vapour-style balms (such as Vick's VapoRub).
2. Is CastorClear safe for children?
CastorClear is made with gentle, natural ingredients and contains no petroleum, synthetic fragrance, or parabens. However, as it contains strong essential oils, it is only for children aged two and over plus always patch test before use on children, and consulting your healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Although they are natural essential oils, some people can be allergic to certain essential oils. Always apply externally and avoid the face, eyes and nostrils.
3. Can I use CastorClear every day?
Yes, whether you're applying it before bed, or using it in a steam bowl during cooler months, it’s gentle enough for regular use.
4. Does CastorClear replace Vick's Vaporub?
CastorClear is a natural alternative to petroleum-based vapour rubs, made with castor oil and essential oils like eucalyptus, menthol, peppermint, and lemon myrtle, rather than petroleum jelly and other synthetic ingredients. While we don’t make therapeutic claims, CastorClear can be used as part of your winter wellness rituals in similar ways.
5. Is it vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes! We personally make CastorClear in the Biome lab in Brisbane. It is vegan, the ingredients and the balm are not tested on animals, and it is made with only plant-based, ethically sourced ingredients.
What are the synthetic additives commonly found in conventional Vapour Rubs?
Petroleum derivatives
- Petrolatum (Petroleum jelly) – occlusive base; traps moisture but is derived from crude oil
- Mineral oil – petroleum-derived moisturiser
Synthetic menthol and camphor
Often chemically synthesised rather than extracted from natural sources.
Paraffin
- A waxy substance from petroleum used to stabilise or thicken the balm
Fragrance / Parfum
- A concoction of synthetic chemicals that can include allergens or hormone-disrupting phthalates (usually not disclosed individually).
Preservatives
- BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) – synthetic antioxidant used to prevent product oxidation.
- Phenoxyethanol – synthetic preservative with potential skin sensitivity issues.
- Parabens (e.g. methylparaben, propylparaben) – synthetic preservatives with some evidence of hormonal disruption.
Colourants
- Artificial dyes or pigments to give the balm a uniform or branded appearance.
Emulsifiers and stabilisers
- PEG compounds (Polyethylene Glycol) – used to improve texture or absorption
- Carbomers – synthetic thickening agents
INGREDIENTS
- Castor oil: Renowned for its moisturising and healing properties. Cold pressed, hexane free.
- Hydrogenated castor oil: not petroleum-derived PEG-40. It is castor wax, derived from castor beans (Ricinus communis).
- Carnauba wax: Adds a natural, plant-based thickness and protective layer to lock in moisture.
- Coconut oil: Known for its deep moisturising and soothing benefits.
- Pure essential oils: no fake "natural identical" oils, only pure essential oils including two favourite Australian natives Eucalyptus Blue Gum and Lemon Myrtle, plus Camphor White, Menthol, and Peppermint.
Don't miss checking out our original with 140+ 5 star reviews. CastorGuard is nature's Vaseline alternative - a multi-purpose petroleum-free balm made with castor oil. Users report it works for lip balm for dry lips, cracked heels, chafing, dry skin, dermatitis, puffy eyes, scratches, and more.
SHIPPING
Biome ships to Australia and the rest of the world > .
