What is Castor Oil?
When recommending Castor Oil Packs a common response is, “Like, the stuff they put in cars?”. If this thought crossed your mind, please never use motor oil topically! And please continue to read to understand the difference between Castrol Motor Oil and Castor Oil Packs. Castor oil is a natural derivative of the castor bean (Ricinus communis). The main component of castor oil is ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It's known to conventional medicine only as a strong laxative when taken internally (not recommended). However, when applied externally, it can be a gentle, easy-to-use remedy for many ailments. Properties of castor oil are known to improve assimilation, elimination and circulation (especially of lymph). It has long been used as an ingredient in salves for skin problems, hair mask to stimulate growth, as a balms for achy joints and commonly, as a "Castor Oil Pack." These packs are often applied over the liver, colon, breasts and other effected areas. Indicators for this gentile healing remedy include:
Liver congestion
Adhesions/scars/fibrous tissue
Fluid retention
Constipation
Bowel impaction
Swollen lymph nodes
Gall bladder congestion
Swollen/painful joints
How To Apply a Castor Oil Pack
You will need:
Flannel
Heat Pack
Old T-Shirt and Towel
Directions:
Fold cotton flannel over about 4 layers thick to the size of the effected area.
Saturate cloth with castor oil.
Apply the saturated cloth directly to desired area. Some use a plastic bag or wrap to cover and contain the oil, I prefer to skip the plastic.
Place heat pack over the cloth. A hot water bottle, electric or microwavable heat pack can be used.
Relax with the pack in place for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.
Things to note:
This remedy is safe enough to use daily, and is most effective when used frequently, up to once daily.
Be warned, this treatment can be messy. Castor oil is thick in consistency and can stain clothing. I recommend using it while undressed or wearing old clothing/towels and protecting furniture & pillows.
Precautions should always be taken when using heat. Do not use temperatures high enough to burn or apply heat for longer than one hour at a time.
Castor oil has also been said to induce labor and thus is not recommended for use in pregnant women, during heavy menses or during mealtimes.