10 Ways Castor Oil Heals
Relieve period pains, acne and constipation with this healing oil
Castor oil is a pale, yellow liquid extracted from castor seeds, derived from the Ricinus communis plant. The primary active ingredient in castor oil is ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid that boasts anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties.
It has been used in traditional medicine around the world, particularly in ancient Egypt and India, for its wide range of health benefits and unique therapeutic properties.
Discover the numerous health benefits of castor oil, how it can help with different ailments such as period pain, acne and dandruff, and ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Health benefits of castor oil
Skin health
Castor oil is renowned for its ability to improve skin health. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective in treating a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Acne: The ricinoleic acid in castor oil can help reduce inflammation and fight off acne-causing bacteria. Applying a small amount of castor oil to affected areas can help clear up breakouts and prevent future ones.
- Dry skin: Castor oil is an excellent moisturiser, thanks to its high fatty acid content. It helps lock in moisture, making it ideal for treating dry, flaky skin. Apply a few drops of castor oil directly to the affected area or mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil to dilute its potency. Use it as part of your nightly skincare routine for best results.
- Wound healing: The healing properties of castor oil can aid skin repair and regeneration of minor cuts and wounds. Applying castor oil to a wound can help prevent infection and promote faster healing.
Hair health
- Hair growth: Regular application of castor oil can stimulate hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the scalp. Massage warm castor oil into your scalp and leave it on for a few hours before washing it out to encourage thicker, healthier hair.
- Dandruff: Castor oil’s antimicrobial and moisturising properties can help combat dandruff and other scalp infections. Mixing castor oil with a few drops of tea tree oil and massaging it into your scalp can reduce flakiness and itchiness.
- Conditioning: Castor oil can deeply condition your hair, making it soft and manageable. Use it as a pre-shampoo treatment by applying it to your hair and leaving it on for about 30 minutes before washing.
Alleviate constipation
Castor oil has been traditionally used as a natural laxative. When taken orally in small doses, it can help alleviate constipation. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil stimulates the intestines, promoting bowel movements. However, it’s important to use castor oil for constipation only under the guidance of a natural health practitioner, as excessive use can lead to adverse effects.
Joint and muscle pain relief
The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil make it an effective remedy for joint and muscle pain. Massaging warm castor oil onto sore muscles or painful joints can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Cover with a cloth and apply heat for 20-30 minutes to enhance absorption and effectiveness. For enhanced relief, you can combine castor oil with essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus
Period pain relief
Castor oil packs are excellent for relieving period pains and pain associated with endometriosis. These packs involve applying castor oil to a piece of cloth and placing it on the skin, often over the lower abdomen, to provide therapeutic benefits. When applied to the skin, castor oil can help reduce inflammation in the pelvic region, easing discomfort and cramps associated with menstruation. The warmth from a castor oil pack, combined with the massage-like effect of applying the oil, enhances blood circulation in the abdominal area which helps relax the muscles and reduces the severity of menstrual cramps.
Aid detoxification and boost immune system
Castor oil packs can support the body’s natural detoxification processes by stimulating the lymphatic system. Improved lymphatic drainage helps remove toxins that may contribute to inflammation and pain, while also supporting immune function. Soak a piece of flannel or cotton cloth in castor oil, place it over your abdomen, and cover it with a heating pad or hot water bottle. Leave it on for about an hour, and repeat this process several times a week.
How to prepare a castor oil pack
What you’ll need:
- Castor oil (organic and cold-pressed)
- A piece of soft cloth (such as flannel or cotton)
- Plastic wrap or a plastic bag
- A hot water bottle or heating pad
- An old towel or blanket to protect your bed or furniture
Preparing the pack:
- Fold the cloth into a size that will cover your lower abdomen.
- Soak the cloth in castor oil until it is saturated but not dripping.
Applying the pack:
- Lie down in a comfortable position on your back.
- Place the castor oil-soaked cloth on your lower abdomen.
- Cover the cloth with plastic wrap to prevent the oil from staining your clothes or furniture.
- Place a hot water bottle or heating pad on top of the plastic wrap to provide heat.
- Relax for 30-60 minutes with the castor oil pack in place.
Usage and storage:
For best results, use castor oil packs 3 – 4 times a week during the week leading up to your period and during your period. Consistent use can help manage pain and discomfort more effectively.
Store the cloth in a reusable bag for future use (it can be reused several times).
Boost your health with castor oil
Incorporating castor oil into your daily routine can enhance skin health, promote hair growth, alleviate constipation, and provide relief from joint, muscle and period pain. Castor oil packs, in particular, offer a simple yet effective method for addressing various ailments, from menstrual cramps to detoxification and immune support.
To learn more about nutrition and natural remedies to boost health:
