I have using both Tropical Isle brand Jamaican Black Castor Oil, and Home Health Castor Oil, religiously. I’d have to say that both of them have contributed a lot to thickening my hair, as well as growth.
I started off using Home Health Brand Castor oil, but then became interested in using Jamaican Black Castor Oil, because of all the good results people ere having with it.
The differences between the two are physical, again, they both help with thickening, and growth, however, it seems many, including myself have experienced a little more growth with Jamaican Black Castor Oil, but I would say it is due to regular Castor Oil having a thicker consistency. It’s thicker consistency, means that it takes longer for it to absorb into the scalp. It is also easier to apply.
Another thing that makes them differ, is Jamaican Black Castor Oil is less processed, making it more ‘pure’, which means that it has more potency than regular Castor Oil.
It is pricier than regular Castor Oil, and from what I have seen, it is not sold in stores. You can find JBCO on Jamaican Black Castor Oil
A 4oz. of Jamaican Black Castor Oil can run you $5.29 USD, the 8oz can run you $9.99, not including shipping. They also have one that is scented with Lavender. I use this kind, it still has the smokey scent the original does,but you can also smell the lavender, I use this kind.
The Lavender is a bit pricier, the 4oz is $6.99 USD, and the 8oz is $11.99. I have yet to order from the Sams website myself, as I have used my BHP credits to purchase from the forum store! It is a great forum, there are raffles for holidays, and you can earn credits daily just by posting, and logging in daily.
Since JBCO is a bit pricey, I mix it with regular Castor Oil. They both work wonderfully! It also insures I do not use a whole bottle, that way it lasts me longer.
If you are on a tight budget, but still want to thicken your hair, I would suggest using regular Castor Oil. It’s the economical choice, as it is sold in stores like GNC, and Vitamin Shoppe, you can even use the kind they sell in Wal Mart or drug stores. Whereas Jamaican Black Castor Oil can only be ordered online (as far as I know).
They both work, it is just a matter of preference.
Until Next Time, Naomi~
Beautiful kinks 
Aug 31, 2010 @ 14:48:56
You know you can buy unrefined castor oil at health food stores?
Sep 08, 2010 @ 06:09:45
I believe that Jamaican Black Castor Oil is the closest thing to being unrefined, as it is the least processed of the two, but it is harder to find.You may be able to find it in a West Indian Market, or through Amazon. You also can purchase from the Sams247.com website.I think both Castor Oil and JBCO work in thickening, so I would not stress that too much. HTH