The use of castor oil dates back to Ancient Egypt, where it was used as fuel and for medicinal purposes. Despite its historical use, many people are discovering castor oil for the first time. Some people include it in various folk and alternative medicine applications, while others use it to help encourage healthier hair and skin. 

What Is Castor Oil?

Castor oil comes from the castor seed, which is native to India. Today, the majority of castor oil is produced in India, where it is still used as a laxative and in skin and hair care products. According to the FDA, castor oil is safe for treating constipation, but researchers are still investigating other potential health benefits. As of now, researchers attribute many of castor oil’s purported health benefits to ricinoleic acid. Reportedly, Cleopatra used castor oil to brighten the whites of her eyes, but you shouldn’t put it in your eyes.

Does Castor Oil Induce Labor?

Occasionally, castor oil is used internally to induce labor, but available research doubts its efficacy. Taking castor oil internally can cause intense diarrhea, so the idea is that it can also stimulate uterine contractions. Some people choose to experiment with castor oil to induce labor, but it may come with some side effects. That is why a lot of people prefer the external use of castor oil, so they don’t have to deal with diarrhea.

What Are Castor Oil Packs

Basically, the idea is that you pour castor oil on a piece of cloth and apply it to the skin for at least one hour with a heat source. The idea behind this is that it stimulates lymph and nerve function. Unlike other detox methods, the use of castor oil heat packs is not said to have any negative side effects. Many anecdotal accounts report that castor oil packs help improve sleep, enhance energy levels, and clear skin symptoms. 

Even if you use castor oil for external use, you may want to consult a doctor or naturopath to ensure that it is a safe remedy for you. Do not use castor oil packs if you are pregnant or struggling with a medical condition. Additionally, perform a small patch test with castor oil on a small part of your arm before using it on a larger area of the body. Wait 24 hours to see if you have a skin reaction. When you determine that it is acceptable for you to use, you can place the castor oil pack in certain places for the following benefits:

• Place castor oil packs directly on sore muscles or joints to help reduce inflammation. As a quick note, these packs are not a substitute for medical care; rather, they may help accelerate the healing of minor injuries or soreness. 
• Try to place castor oil packs on the lower abdomen to help reduce menstrual pain and difficulties. 
• Apply a castor oil pack to the right side of the abdomen or the whole abdomen to help support digestive and liver function. Some gallbladder specialists recommend castor oil packs for holistic treatment. 

What Does A Castor Oil Pack Do?

Essentially, a castor oil pack works to harness the anti-inflammatory and lymph stimulating benefits of castor oil for safe external use. What that means is that they aid liver detoxification, support uterine and ovarian health, and improve lymphatic circulation. Unfortunately, there are no conclusive studies involving the use of castor oil packs externally. A long history of traditional use in many cultures, however, does speak to the efficacy of castor oil packs. Some evidence does indicate that castor oil packs may have a suppressive effect on tumors and a positive effect on arthritis. 

How To Do A Castor Oil Pack

You can do a castor oil pack simply at home. When you apply them, you must be still for at least one hour. That is typically a hard task to accomplish! They can also be a bit messy, but if you prepare them properly then it will be just fine. There are also castor oil kits for sale if you do not want to purchase the following items. 

What You’ll Need:

• High-quality castor oil
• Unbleached and dye-free wool or cotton flannel (you can use up to 30 times)
• Hot water bottle or heating pad
• Glass container with lid
• Old clothes, towels, or sheets because castor oil stains
• Patience

How To Use A Castor Oil Pack

• Begin by cutting a large piece of cotton flannel and fold it into thirds to make three layers. If your original piece is 20 inches by 10 inches, it will be seven inches by 10 inches when you fold it. 
• Thoroughly soak (without completely saturating) the flannel in castor oil. The easiest way to do this is by folding the flannel and placing it into a quart-size mason jar. Add the castor oil to the jar one tablespoon at a time, every 20 minutes or so. You can screw on the lid and shake the jar between adding more oil. 
• Carefully remove and unfold the soaked cloth. Lie flat on an old towel or sheet and place the cloth on the desired body part. 
• Cover the area with the wrap or cotton flannel and place a heating pad or hot water bottle on top of it. Lie flat and elevate your feet, relaxing for 30 to 60 minutes. 
• After the desired time, remove the pack and return the flannel to the glass jar. Store in the fridge for later use. 
• Use a natural soap to remove any leftover castor oil on the skin. Relax and rest.

Vincent Stevens

Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.