Castor Oil Packs
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and includes the opinion of the author. Information is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness or disease. It is simply information found through experience and/or research. Always follow the directives of a licensed health professional. Neither Anita Bastian nor the publisher of the information takes any responsibility for actions readers take in regards to how they use or perceive the information. Readers are encouraged to do their own research.
Originally published December 23, 2021. Revised December 19, 2023.
Castor Oil Packs have been shown to support lymphatic drainage by increasing lymphocyte production and supporting the body’s natural detoxification ability. The body’s lymphatic system drains into the blood that is then sent to the liver for further filtering so waste products can be eliminated via the colon.
Castor Oil Packs are an easy tool to implement at home to support your wellness.
CASTOR OIL PACKS CAN
- Increase lymphatic drainage of toxins
- Support motility (bowel movements)
- Enhance the body’s natural ability to detoxify
- Be helpful in cases of sensitivities to foods etc.
- Decrease inflammation
- Promote circulation and healing to the area supported
- Support overall health and wellness
SUPPLIES NEEDED
Although you can purchase castor oil kits. The following are supplies you can readily purchase at your local health and wellness shops or co-ops.
- Castor Oil (organic, hexane free)
- Flannel Cloth (Organic)
- Plastic wrap
- Hot water bottle, hot gel pack, or heating pad (optional)
WHERE TO PLACE CASTOR OIL PACKS
The two main areas are over the liver and on the abdominal region or over the gut. Packs have also shown to be supportive over the thyroid area and the kidneys as well. In general, I would suggest placing the pack over the liver or gut area. (I have personally used castor oil packs over my liver, gut, and kidneys.)
BASIC DIRECTIONS
- Cut flannel cloth to cover area and allowing for two layers of thickness.
- Apply castor oil (couple tablespoons or so) to one side of the cloth, and place it oil side to your skin.
- Cover the area with the plastic wrap that extends beyond the cloth. (This helps avoid staining your clothes with the oil and keeps in heat.)
- Apply a hot water bottle, hot gel pack, or heating pad on low setting over plastic wrap. (optional)
- Settle into a comfortable reclined position to rest. (*A shorter time may be recommended to start with. Somewhere between 30-90 minutes is a good place to start. You can work up to leaving it on overnight..)
- Wipe off or wash off excess oil from your skin when done.
- You can reuse the castor oil cloth multiple times. Most recommend storing it in a glass jar and placing it in the refrigerator between uses. (Do not warm up cloths in a microwave as it can start on fire.)
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Castor oil pack should be avoided while nursing, during pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or active ulcers. Do not place castor oil packs over open wounds. People who have chemical or other sensitivities may experience an increase in symptoms especially with the initial use of castor oil packs as it is supporting the body with the detoxification and elimination process.
If you are concerned about sensitivity issues, you may want to place a dab of castor oil on your skin for a few minutes to be sure that you will not have any negative response. Personally, I don’t know anyone who has reacted to castor oil, but if you are concerned this is a good way to test it out.
*Always consult with your physician or licensed health professional regarding use of castor oil prior to use.
Don’t want the mess of making your own with cloth and plastic wrap? Check out Queen of Thrones. I love their easy-to-use products.
