Castor Oil Benefits

Castor oil is a pale yellow liquid extracted from castor seed Ricinus Communis. This wonderful oil is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant used for many centuries for its therapeutic and medicinal benefits. It is not recommended to use these packs while pregnant, discuss this with your care provider before use when pregnant.

Castor oil can be used as a pack on the abdomen and helps with many issues and ailments such as :

·        Constipation

·        Gall bladder and liver inflammation

·        Gastrointestinal issues

·        Abdominal inflammation

·        Menstrual disorders 

·        Arthritis

·        Nerve inflammation

·        Sore muscles

How to Do a Castor Oil Pack

You will need the following

1.     Hexane free castor oil – organic if possible

2.     unbleached and dye-free wool or cotton flannel or organic material

3.      A large piece of cotton flannel  or plastic wrap like Saran Wrap (not optimal)

4.     glass container with lid –use a quart-size mason jar for storing the oil-soaked flannel between uses

5.     old clothes, towels, and sheets – castor oil does stain

6.     Heat pack/wheat bag/rice pack or heating pad

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack

1.     Cut a large piece of cotton flannel and fold into thirds to make three layers. This should cover the entire area you are wanting to treat such as your abdomen

2.     Thoroughly soak (but not completely saturate) the flannel in castor oil. I save the jar since this is where I keep the flannel between uses, it may take some time for the oil to soak into the flannel

3.     Carefully remove and unfold the castor oil-soaked cloth.

4.     While lying on an old towel or sheet, place the cloth on the desired body part.

5.     Cover with the wrap around pack or saran wrap and place the heating pack on top of this. Less optimally, a plastic grocery bag can be used to prevent any oil from getting on the heating pad. A hot water bottle, electric heating pad can be used, but hot water bottles and rice packs may need to be reheated several times.

6.     Lie on back with feet elevated (I typically lie on the floor and rest my feet on the couch) and relax for 30-60 minutes.

7.     After the desired time, remove the pack and return the flannel to the glass container. Store in the fridge.

8.     Use a natural soap or a mix of baking soda and water to remove any castor oil left on the skin.

9.     Relax and rest. Make sure to drink enough water and stay hydrated after doing this to support detox.

Dr. Joelle Johnson from Family First Chiropractic and wellness is located at 142 Erickson drive, Red Deer, Alberta . www.family1stchiro.ca 403-347-3261