Castor Oil Pack
Your self-care routine
Castor oil has been around for thousands of years and used for a variety of ailments. It originates from castor seed and contains ricinoleic acid which is believed to have many health benefits.
It is antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and rich in nutrients. It helps to reduce inflammation in the body, stimulate the lymphatic system, the body’s natural detoxifier moving hormones, toxins and fluid through the body, it promotes digestion, increases blood flow and breaks down scar tissues.
A castor oil pack is an external application of castor oil, using a soaked flannel on the abdomen with a warm water bottle or heat pack.
What it is used for
When applied regularly on the lower abdomen covering the reproductive area, it can help to …
-
Stimulate lymphatic system
-
Boost blood circulation to the reproductive organs, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the area
-
Shrink ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids
-
Reduce endometriosis
-
Soften and break down endometrial adhesions, scar tissues
-
Clear fallopian tubes
-
Reduce menstrual cramps
-
Support healthy bowel movements
-
Clear out stagnation
-
Draw out toxins
-
Balance hormones
-
Reduce inflammation
What you need
-
Organic cold pressed castor oil
-
Wool/100% cotton unbleached flannel
-
Hot water bottle or heat pad
-
A bowl
-
Old towels
-
Old clothes
-
Old bed sheets
Note that castor oil can stain and is difficult to remove.
How to make & apply
-
Before using the flannel for the first time, boil it in water for 5 mins and leave to dry (do not use any soap).
-
Add castor oil in the bowl and soak the clean, dry flannel in it. Leave the flannel until it is fully saturated but not dripping.
-
The first soaking requires a lot of oil. After each use you might need to add a little more.
-
Lie down on your back. You may want an old towel underneath in case the oil drips.
-
Depending on the size of the flannel and the area to cover, fold it and place across your lower abdomen to cover your reproductive area.
-
Place an old towel on the top of the flannel.
-
Place hot water bottle on top or heat pack. It should be very warm but not so hot to burn you. Add a towel on the top of that.
-
Cover yourself in towels or blankets to keep the heat in.
-
Make it a relaxing self-care ritual. Listen to a meditation, relaxing music or just rest. Better done in the evening as it can be very relaxing. Do not scroll on your phone.
-
Leave on for 30 minutes for the first three applications. Then you can increase to 40 – 90 minutes.
Removing the pack
-
Remove the flannel and store it in an airtight glass container, in a cool area or even refrigerator.
-
Wipe yourself with an old towel.
-
Do not wash the flannel as you can re-use it. But do wash it after one month of use.
Frequency
-
Repeat every other day. But at the beginning wait a couple of days first and check in how you are feeling before repeating.
-
If trying to conceive castor packs can be done every 2 - 3 days but not after ovulation.
-
If you have endometriosis, fibroids or ovarian cysts you can do it daily.
-
If not trying to conceive you can use packs throughout the cycle every 2 – 3 days.
-
Do not use in pregnancy or if you have an IUD fitted.
-
Do not use when menstruating.
Washing the flannel
-
Wash the flannel after one month.
-
Boil it in water for 5 minutes. Leave in hot water with bicarbonate of soda. Then rinse very well.
Contraindications
Proceed carefully and watch out for any unexpected reactions. However, castor oil pack is not recommended in case of:
-
High blood pressure
-
Pregnancy
-
Menstruation
-
If trying for a baby, between ovulation and menstruation
-
Suspected appendicitis
-
Acute inflammatory intestinal disease
-
Rectal bleeding
