Healing with Castor Oil Packs

In an era filled with high-tech health trends and quick fixes, some of the most powerful remedies come from ancient traditions. One such treasure is the castor oil pack—a natural therapy praised for its ability to support detoxification, relieve pain, improve digestion, and balance hormones. Simple, affordable, and deeply therapeutic, castor oil packs are becoming a favourite in holistic wellness routines.

What Is a Castor Oil Pack?

A castor oil pack consists of a piece of flannel or cotton cloth soaked in organic, cold-pressed castor oil, placed on the skin—usually over the abdomen—and warmed with a hot water bottle or heating pad. Castor oil, extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has been used medicinally for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and folk medicine.

When applied topically, the oil is absorbed through the skin and works to stimulate circulation, support lymphatic drainage, and reduce inflammation—all crucial functions for maintaining good health.

Benefit Area	How It Helps	Benefits	Recommended Placement
Liver Detoxification	Increases circulation to the liver and supports detox pathways	Better digestion, more energy, balanced hormones	Right upper abdomen (over liver)
Lymphatic Drainage	Stimulates lymph flow and reduces stagnation	Less puffiness, boosted immunity, fewer infections	Lower abdomen, neck, armpits, or over lymph nodes
Digestive Relief	Promotes peristalsis and soothes inflamed digestive tissues	Regular bowel movements, reduced bloating/gas, less IBS discomfort	Middle to lower abdomen
Hormonal Balance	Assists liver in hormone metabolism and enhances circulation to reproductive organs	Reduced PMS, fewer cramps, more regular cycles	Lower abdomen (uterus/ovaries) or over liver
Pain & Inflammation Relief	Delivers anti-inflammatory effects to joints, muscles, and tissues	Arthritis relief, relaxed muscles, soothed menstrual or pelvic pain	Directly over affected joints or pain area
Immune Support	Enhances lymph and blood flow, lowers inflammation	Stronger immunity, faster recovery, reduced chronic fatigue	Upper abdomen (liver), chest, or neck
Skin & Scar Healing	Nourishes skin with fatty acids and supports tissue regeneration	Smoother skin, faded scars/stretch marks, calmer eczema/psoriasis	Directly over scars or irritated skin
Stress Relief & Relaxation	Activates parasympathetic nervous system (rest & digest mode)	Lower stress, improved sleep, enhanced mood and relaxation	Abdomen, chest, or over the vagus nerve (left side of neck)

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack

What You’ll Need:

• Organic, cold-pressed castor oil

• A piece of flannel or cotton cloth (about 12” x 10”)

• Plastic wrap or old towel

• Heating pad or hot water bottle

• Old clothes or sheets (castor oil stains)

Instructions:

1. Soak the cloth in castor oil until saturated but not dripping.

2. Apply the cloth to the desired area (liver, abdomen, joints, etc.).

3. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel to protect clothing or bedding.

4. Add heat with a hot water bottle or heating pad.

5. Relax for 30–60 minutes, ideally while lying down.

6. Clean the skin with a gentle soap or baking soda solution.

7. Store the cloth in a sealed container in the fridge. Reuse up to 30 times, adding oil as needed.

How Often Should You Use It?

• For general wellness: 2–3 times per week

• For acute concerns (e.g., PMS, constipation): Daily or as needed

• For relaxation and stress: Whenever you feel overwhelmed