I first came across castor oil when I was nearing the due date of my first pregnancy. Like many expectant mothers, I was anxious to meet my baby and turned to Google for advice on how to naturally expedite labor.
I discovered numerous home remedies intended to trigger labor, which I tried, such as walking, eating spicy foods, bouncing on a medicine ball, consuming pineapple, dancing, drinking raspberry leaf tea, among others. However, I also found a few methods I wasn’t brave enough to attempt—particularly castor oil, which I’m glad I skipped for reasons I’ll explain.
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil, derived from the castor seed (Ricinus communis), originates in India and is rich in ricinoleic acid, believed to be the source of its health benefits. Historically, it was known as Palma christe because its leaves resembled the hands of Christ. Although castor oil is reputed for its health benefits, the castor seed itself is toxic. While its internal use can be safe, it should be approached with care.
Used in ancient Japanese healing arts and other historical cultures, castor oil boasts a long-standing heritage. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical texts dating to 1550 B.C., notes the application of castor oil by the early Egyptians. The FDA considers it "Generally Regarded As Safe," approving up to a tablespoon per day for internal use, though it may cause severe digestive issues for some individuals. As I’m not a healthcare professional, consult with yours before using castor oil or similar remedies internally.
Does Castor Oil Really Start Labor?
While some advocate for using castor oil to induce labor, research is skeptical of its efficacy. Internally, it can cause severe diarrhea, potentially leading to uterine contractions. I decided against using it because of the potential risk of causing the baby to pass meconium before birth. It’s also sometimes used as a remedy for constipation, again involving intense diarrhea.
Personally, I prefer external applications and do not use it internally. Castor oil is part of my daily skincare routine, and I’ve noticed remarkable improvements.
Castor Oil Packs (& Why to Do One)
When I found out about my MTHFR mutation, I explored another use for castor oil: castor oil packs.
What It Is
A castor oil pack involves applying castor oil to a cloth on the skin for an hour or more while using a heat source to encourage lymphatic and liver function. Unlike some detox methods, this approach purportedly has no adverse effects, and many report improved sleep, energy, and clearer skin.
Even for external use, I suggest consulting with a healthcare provider. Pregnant individuals or those with medical conditions should avoid it. I always test new oils or substances on a small skin area first.
Reasons for Using Castor Oil Packs:
- Applying on the right side of the abdomen or entire abdomen is believed to support liver and digestive health. Certain gallbladder experts recommend castor oil packs as part of a broader treatment plan.
- Applying to strained joints or muscles may help alleviate inflammation. (This should supplement, not replace, medical care for minor injuries.)
- Placing on the lower abdomen can aid menstrual discomfort.
What It Does
Castor oil packs leverage the anti-inflammatory and lymph-stimulating effects of castor oil while ensuring safer external application. A 1999 study found that, following a two-hour application, castor oil packs significantly increased T-11 cells, enhancing the body’s immune defenses. These lymphocytes are responsible for defending against pathogens and toxins, originating from the thymus and bone marrow, and they combat viruses, fungi, bacteria, and cancer cells.
In essence, castor oil packs may assist in liver detoxification, support reproductive health, promote better lymphatic flow, and reduce inflammation.
While conclusive studies on external use of castor oil packs are lacking, preliminary research and traditional usage suggest potential benefits. Some studies indicate a tumor-suppressive effect and promise in alleviating arthritis.
Besides these physical benefits, using castor oil packs can offer a period of relaxation, which in itself is beneficial for health.
How to Do a Castor Oil Pack
Using castor oil packs is straightforward to do at home. They require an hour of relaxation, which can be challenging to set aside, but with careful preparation, they aren’t messy. For convenience, complete castor oil kits are available, though you can assemble the materials yourself as follows:
You’ll Need:
- High-quality castor oil (hexane free)
- Unbleached, dye-free wool or cotton flannel (reuse up to 30 times)
- A wrap-around pack or large piece of cotton flannel or plastic wrap (not ideal)
- Hot water bottle or heating pad
- Glass container with lid (a quart-size mason jar works for storing the cloth)
- Old clothes, towels, and sheets (castor oil will stain)
- Patience (hardest to acquire!)
Note: Prepare the area where you intend to use the pack carefully to avoid stains. Position an old shower curtain with a sheet on top to protect surfaces. Between uses, the sheet can be folded and stored for future use without frequent washing.
How to Use a Castor Oil Pack:
- Cut and fold a large piece of cotton flannel into thirds for three layers. My piece was 20×10 inches, folded to about 7×10 inches. Size can vary depending on the area of application.
- Soak the flannel thoroughly with castor oil without oversaturating. To do this, fold the flannel and place it in a mason jar, adding a tablespoon of oil every 20 minutes, shaking the jar to distribute evenly. Ideally, prepare the day before use for optimal saturation. Store the flannel in the jar for reuse.
- Remove the soaked cloth and unfold.
- Place the cloth on the desired body area while lying on an old towel or sheet.
- Cover with a wrap-around pack or cotton flannel, and place a heat source on top. A plastic bag can protect the heating pad from oil stains. Use a hot water bottle or rice pack, reheating as needed.
- Lie down with feet elevated (e.g., on a couch) and relax for 30-60 minutes.
- Use this time for deep breathing, reading, meditation, or prayer.
- After the session, remove the cloth and store it in the glass container in the fridge.
- Clean any remaining castor oil with natural soap or a baking soda-water mix.
- Rest and hydrate well post-treatment to aid detoxification.
Where to Buy a Castor Oil Kit
Pre-made castor oil kits include flannel and a non-messy wrap-around pack, eliminating the need for plastic.
- I’ve tried Radiant Life’s kit, which was leak-proof.
- Another kit offers similar quality but features a contoured flannel wrap with easy ties.
Other Ways to Use Castor Oil
Castor oil is useful for various home applications. Rich in fatty acids and possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it benefits the body in several ways. Externally, it can:
- Aid in treating acne, dry skin, rashes, boils, age spots, and warts to enhance complexion and moisture.
- Combat toenail fungus.
- Relieve sprains, injuries, or sore joints.
- Address back pain.
- Soothe the abdomen for digestive or reproductive issues.
For optimal outcomes, apply castor oil packs when symptoms appear, for 60-90 minutes, three times weekly over a three-week period. Check with a doctor to exclude serious health issues.
This content was medically reviewed by Madiha Saeed, MD, a board-certified family physician. As always, this is not intended as personal medical advice, and consulting with your doctor is recommended.
Have you tried castor oil before? I’ll be sharing more of my favorite uses soon, but feel free to share yours!
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