BENEFITS OF CASTOR OIL: For Skin and Health

 

Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant, scientifically known as Ricinus communis. It is a pale yellow liquid with a distinct taste and odor. Castor oil has been used for various purposes for centuries, ranging from medicinal to industrial applications. It is extremely high in ricinoleic acid, which is thought to be responsible for its health-promoting abilities. In fact, it was once called Palma christe because its leaves resembled the hands of Christ. It is important to note that while castor oil is said to have health benefits, the castor seed itself can be deadly. Internal use of castor oil can be safe, but warrants caution.

   The best and most efficient way of using castor oil is to make castor oil packs.

What It Is:

The idea is to keep castor oil on a piece of cloth on the skin for at least an hour with a heat source to stimulate lymph and liver function. Unlike some “detox” methods, this is not said to have any negative side effects and there are many accounts of people who noticed immediate better sleep, more energy, and clearing of skin symptoms.

NOTE: Even for external use, I’d consult with a doctor or naturopath to make sure that this natural remedy is OK for you. It should not be used if pregnant or struggling with a medical condition. I also test any new oil (or any substance) on a small part of my arm before using it on a larger area of the body.

What It Does:

Castor oil packs harness the anti-inflammatory and lymph stimulating benefits of castor oil but allow safer external use. Generally castor oil packs have been said to help detoxify the liver naturally, support uterine and ovarian health, improve lymphatic circulation, and reduce inflammation. 

There aren’t any conclusive studies on the use of castor oil packs externally (though there are some preliminary ones), but a long history of traditional use in many cultures. There is some evidence that it can have a suppressive effect on tumors and a positive effect on arthritis when used externally. Castor oil packs also provide a time of quiet relaxation, which comes with its own set of health benefits!.. 

How to Do a Castor Oil Pack

Castor oil packs are simple to do at home. Tho it's not always easy to accomplish!! They can be really messy if proper care and attention is not observed. You can also buy a complete castor oil kit rather than assemble all of the items below. 

Materials Needed For a Pack

° High-quality castor oil (hexane free)

° Unbleached and dye-free wool or cotton flannel (like this) – can be reused up to 30 times

° A wrap-around pack (or large piece of cotton flannel) or plastic wrap (not optimal)

° Hot water bottle or heating pad

° Glass container with lid – I use a quart-size mason jar for storing the oil-soaked flannel between uses

° Old clothes, towels, and sheets – castor oil does stain!

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack

To use a castor oil pack, follow these steps:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need a few items to create a castor oil pack. These include castor oil, a piece of flannel or cotton cloth large enough to cover the desired area, plastic wrap or a plastic bag, a heating pad or hot water bottle, and old clothes or towels to protect your bedding or furniture.

2. Prepare the pack: Fold the cloth into several layers to make a thick pad. Place it in a bowl or container and saturate it with castor oil. Make sure the cloth is soaked but not dripping.

3. Position yourself: Find a comfortable place to lie down, such as a bed or couch, and protect the area with old clothes or towels. You may also want to have a pillow or cushion for support.

4. Apply the pack: Place the castor oil-soaked cloth directly on the desired area of your body. For example, if you're using it for abdominal issues, position it over your abdomen. If you're using it for joint pain, place it over the affected joint. You can also use the pack on your liver, back, or other areas as needed.

5. Cover the pack: Cover the castor oil pack with plastic wrap or place it inside a plastic bag to prevent staining. This step is important to protect your clothing and bedding.

6. Apply heat: Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle over the plastic-covered pack. The heat helps the oil penetrate the skin and enhances its therapeutic effects. Make sure the heat is comfortable and not too hot to avoid burns.

7. Relax and rest: Lie down and relax for at least 30 minutes to an hour while the castor oil pack is in place. You can use this time to meditate, read, or listen to calming music.

8. Clean up: After the recommended time, remove the pack and store it in a sealed container for future use. It's best to designate a specific pack for reuse. Clean the area where the pack was applied with a mild soap and warm water to remove any oil residue.

Other Ways to Use Castor Oil

Castor oil is handy to have around the house for other uses as well. It is rich in fatty acids and it contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the body in many ways. Use castor oil externally to:

° Apply to acne, dry skin, rashes, boils, age spots, and warts to improve complexion and boost moisture

° Treat toenail fungus

° Soothe a sprain, injury, or sore joints

° Apply to areas of back pain

° To cleanse and soothe abdomen when having digestive or reproductive trouble

  For best results, apply castor oil packs for 60-90 minutes as soon as trouble starts. Also, It's generally recommended to use a castor oil pack 3 to 4 times a week for several weeks to experience its benefits. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.