The Many Benefits of Castor Oil

Today on the blog, we’re talking all about castor oil! It’s been one of our most-popular products lately here at Roberts Creek Well-being, and for good reason. Read on to find out what castor oil is, how to use it, and why you should always have a bottle stocked in your holistic pantry. 

What is Castor oil?

Castor oil is made from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus Communis). It can be used both topically and taken internally, and has ancient roots in Ayurvedic medicine. The oil is rich in fatty acids, and contains a variety of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. 

Castor oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to a multitude of ailments: from easing hormonal conditions, soothing digestion, and relieving constipation, to supporting skin health, boosting immune function, and even kick starting labor!

Today on the blog, we’re sharing a variety of our favorite ways to use this wonderful oil. Pop into Roberts Creek Well-being if you have any questions, or to pick up a bottle for yourself! 

Castor Oil Uses 

Increased Circulation

Castor oil stimulates the circulatory system, sending fresh oxygenated blood throughout the body. This increased circulation nourishes our bodily organs, and aids in their optimal functioning. 

A castor oil pack applied topically is the best way to increase circulation to organs such as the digestive and reproductive organs. Read on to learn how to make a castor oil pack at home. 

Improved Digestion & Detoxification 

Castor oil cleanses the digestive organs and encourages the elimination of toxins by increasing circulation to the liver. This increased circulation stimulates liver function, and helps the body rid itself of various toxins.

Women’s Wellness

Castor oil nourishes the reproductive organs by increasing circulation to the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, which can help support healthy ovulation and increase fertility naturally. In the presence of menstrual conditions such as Endometriosis or PCOS, this increased circulation (along with castor oil’s anti-inflammatory properties) can help relieve pain while treating cysts and scar tissue 

Enhanced Immunity

Castor oil stimulates the lymphatic systems and increases disease fighting white blood cells. White blood cells kill bacteria and viruses, and speed up the healing process.

Nourished Hair & Skin

Castor oil can be applied directly to hair and skin to restore moisture and provide nourishing monounsaturated fats. It can also be blended with other skin-friendly oils such as jojoba to create your own non-toxic facial moisturizer and other body products.

Natural Laxative

Castor oil can be taken internally to help relieve occasional constipation. The oil has a stimulating effect on the intestines, and helps push waist through the body to clear the bowels. This laxative effect is powerful, so we recommend starting with a small dose. Larger amounts can cause cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

How to Make a Castor Oil Pack

When applied topically, castor oil has the ability to deeply penetrate the organs and tissues. The most effective way to do this is by placing a castor oil-soaked cloth directly on your skin along with a heat source for at least an hour. This is called a ‘castle oil pack’.

Castor oil packs are a beautiful way to increase circulation, ease sore and inflamed muscles, soothe tummy troubles, support digestion, and aid in the treatment of hormonal conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and fibroids.

We love the following recipe from Wellness Mama! 

*Please note, it’s not advised to use castor oil packs during menstruation or pregnancy. 

Ingredients Needed

• High quality Castor Oil
• Unbleached, dye-free cotton or wool flannel to soak with castor oil
• A second, larger piece of cotton flannel to wrap around the body to secure the castor oil cloth in place
• Hot water bottle or heating pad
• Glass container or mason jar with lid
• Old towels and sheets that can be stained 

Instructions

1. Cut a large piece of cotton flannel and fold into thirds to make three layers.
2. Thoroughly soak (but not completely saturate) the flannel in castor oil by carefully folding the flannel and placing in a quart-size mason jar. Then add castor oil about a tablespoon at a time (every 20 minutes or so) to give it time to saturate. Gently shake the jar between adding more oil so that the oil can reach all parts of the cloth. Ideally, this should be done the day before to give it time to evenly soak. Save the jar to keep the flannel between uses (it can be used about 30 times).
3. When ready to do your pack, remove and unfold the castor oil-soaked cloth.
4. Lay down on an old towel or sheet (warning, castor oil stains!) and place the cloth on the desired body part.
5. Cover with the larger wrap around flannel to secure in place, then place the heating pack on top of this. A hot water bottle works too, but will need to be reheated more than once.
6. Lie on your back with feet elevated and relax for 30-60 minutes.
7. Use this time to practice deep breathing, read a book, or meditate.
8. After the desired time, remove the pack and return the flannel to the glass container. Store in the fridge.
9. Use a natural soap or a mix of baking soda and water to remove any castor oil left on the skin.
10. Relax and rest. Make sure to drink enough water and stay hydrated after doing this to support detox.

Written by: Hannah Schmitt