Castor Oil has been used for centuries for eye infections, digestive issues, as respiratory aid and most popularly for constipation in children.
Made from the seed or bean of the Castor oil plant called Ricinus communis, Castor Oil has no taste or smell and is a very thick clear oil which is great for reducing inflammation in the digestive system, liver, joints, skin disorders and boosts lymphatic drainage.
What to look for?
Castor Oil is easy to find especially in health food stores. I always recommend Organic Expeller pressed ‘hexane free’ Castor oil (hexane is a neurotoxic petrochemical which is best to avoid).
There are many good brands on the market, I personally use St. Francis Herb Farm Organic Castor Oil.
Castor Oil consumption in small quantities may have some benefits but I like to use Castor Oil directly on the skin instead of ingesting it. It is especially effective for the following conditions:
- Constipation, digestion (gas & bloating) and menstrual cramps Apply all over the stomach area, including below the belly button.
- Detoxification of the organs e.g. liver, kidneys etc. apply on the skin covering that organ, e.g. the liver is on your upper right side, just below the chest so apply there
- Inflammation For joint, muscle pain and stiffness apply to the actual joint e.g. all over the knee
- Cysts, Tumours and Skin disorders Apply to the affected skin and/or the area of the cyst/tumour
How to?
Most Practitioners suggest making Castor Oil Packs however I personally find direct application faster and more effective.
Before bed simply take some castor oil in your hand and apply it all over the affected area, put on some old nightwear (it may stain) and laydown with a hot water bottle/heating pad for 30-45mins.
This may also be done a couple more times during the day if needed.
Note: Never use heat when menstruating, pregnant or on a cancer site, you can still apply the oil.
Castor Oil is such a wonderful natural product for reducing inflammation, detoxification and boosting circulation that it really deserves to be in every home!