Castor Oil Packing for Better Digestion and Detox

Let’s talk about castor oil! A few years ago, I began using this incredible oil and quickly fell in love with its effects. As I journaled my experience, I was amazed by the benefits that unfolded in my body. Now, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned so you can discover the many ways this powerful oil can support your own health and wellness.

WHAT IS CASTOR OIL?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil that comes from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis).  It is a unique fatty acid that is a thick oil, yellow in color and is rich in ricinoleic acid.  It is valued for its remarkable properties which includes:

• Anti-inflammatory – helps calm irritation and reduce swelling

• Antimicrobial – supports protection against harmful microbes

• Deeply moisturizing – nourishes and hydrates skin and hair

This oil is valued not only for its remarkable properties but also for its deep-penetrating effectiveness within the body. 

WHY USE CASTOR OIL?

Individuals dealing with digestive health issues are often faces with inflammation, sluggish lymphatic drainage, poor circulation, and disrupted sleep. Add a stressful lifestyle, or difficulty managing stress, and the body becomes quickly overwhelmed. Here is a closer look at how castor oil packing supports the body in these areas:

• Circulation – can increase blood flow to the liver improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the body

• Lymphatic drainage - encourages movement of lymphatic fluid which supports the body in clearing waste thereby easing the liver’s workload

• Decrease inflammation - because of the anti-inflammatory property in this oil, it decreases inflammation and creates a supportive environment to enhance liver function.

• Relaxation - promotes relaxation which helps reduce stress and also improves sleep.

WHEN TO USE?

If you find you are struggling with any, or all of the issues previously mentioned, I recommend integrating this practice into your self-care routine.

It is best to use at bedtime and while in a relaxing state. You can perform this practice on a regular basis especially when the body needs extra support during times such as:

• During a detox or cleanse

• When taking antibiotics

• During and after chemotherapy

• To periodically support the liver and lymphatic systems

HOW TO USE?

There are a variety of ways you can create your own castor oil pack. You can purchase the oil and pack from a reputable brand, or you can simply use things that you already have in your home. Here is a simple step-by-step guide (courtesy of FxNA*) to start this practice:

1. Put on an old shirt as the clothes will get stained from the oil and the oil is a little bit sticky.

2. Start to heat water for a hot water bottle, or you can use a heating pad.

3. Find the placement of your liver on your body. The liver resides just under the bottom rib on the right side of your body.

4. Pour some castor oil into the palm of your hand (about an inch in diameter) and rub it directly onto your skin.

5. Next, drape an old washcloth, or piece of flannel material over the area. Remember the oil stains, so use something old.

6. Apply the heat. (Hot water bottle or heating pad)

7. Lie down and relax for about 15-20 minutes.

SUMMARY

As soon as I learned about the benefits of castor oil packing, I immediately added this to my self-care routine. I started with sessions lasting a couple of hours, three times a week, and noticed improvements fairly quickly. I kept a journal to track the changes, and these are the benefits I observed:

• Scar tissue reduction: I noticed improvement in the reduction of existing scar tissue

• Joint pain relief: My joints felt less achy and more flexible

• Improved digestion: My digestive system became more regular and comfortable

• Better sleep: Wearing a pack at night helped me sleep more deeply

• Increased energy: My system felt less sluggish, and I had more vitality during the day

• Hydrated skin: My skin became softer and more supple, especially the previously cracked skin on my elbows

• Healthier hair: I noticed slight regrowth and a fuller appearance.

• Facial benefits: Applying the oil to my face helped hydrate my skin, and my eyebrows grew thicker and healthier

Now, add castor oil packing along with the practice of grounding yourself and reap the rewards and benefits you receive when combining these two practices. (See my blog on earthing).

If you’re dealing with digestive imbalances and aren’t sure where to begin, let’s talk. Book a free consultation, and together we’ll take a deep dive into what your body is trying to tell you and explore how to bring your digestive system back into balance.