Castor Oil: Health Benefits + Castor Oil Packs

Castor oil packs are a regular part of my wellness regime and I have experienced a number of amazing benefits from it.

I first discovered it on one of my many research inquests into ulcerative colitis protocols to help reduce inflammation and to relieve constipation.

Castor oil is known for its unique fatty acid composition, comprising of predominantly ricinoleic acid. Studies suggest it is the ricinoleic acid that is responsible for castor oils healing properties.

Health Benefits of Castor Oil:

• Improved liver detoxification
• Improved lymphatic circulation
• Reduced inflammation
• Constipation relief
• Supports uterine and ovarian health
• Improved sleep
• Clear skin
• Increased energy
• Decreased menstrual pain

How to Make a Pack

Materials:

• Glass jar i.e. mason jar
• A piece of natural/ organic cotton to cover the abdomen area
• Certified organic castor oil
• Plastic wrap
• Hot water bottle
• Additional – a tea towel to wrap the hot water bottle

Instructions:

• Cut a size of organic/ bamboo cotton material to cover your abdomen
• Place material in a glass jar and soak with castor oil
• Place the saturated material over your abdomen area
• Wrap with cling wrap
• Apply a material barrier (i.e. tea towel) between your skin and the hot water bottle
• Lay on your back and place the hot water bottle over your stomach
• Relax for 30-60 minutes

When you’re finished, remove everything and place the soaked material back in the glass jar and store it in the fridge for next time. I reuse mine for up to 3 months adding a little extra oil during each application.

Tips:

• Wear old clothes as the oil stains everything!
• Try to aim to do the protocol 3 times a week and make it part of your wellness routine
• You can also buy packs online to avoid the use of plastic

Warnings:

• Ensure to do a test patch before applying it to your skin to rule out any allergic reaction
• If ingested, castor oil can be fatal
• Consult your health care practitioner before engaging in the protocol

xXx

Chae @ The Wellness Emporium

Supporting Research:

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. (2011) An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly.

Phytotherapy Research. (2009). Comparative clinical trial of castor oil and diclofenac sodium in patients with osteoarthritis.

Mediators of Inflammation. (2000). Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation.

Mercola article (2012)