Castor-Oil Packs – A Possible Panacea?

Considering castor-oil packs? If you’ve ever heard of castor oil itself, you might think of an old-time remedy having something to do with digestion. If you’re of a certain age, you might remember children enduring occasional doses of castor oil, to keep them “regular” or even as a punishment. While some people still ingest castor oil, many others find great value in a transdermal (through the skin) application to treat a variety of ailments.

According to an article in the science-of-longevity journal, Nutricula, castor-oil packs have shown effectiveness in treating uterine fibroids and non-cancerous ovarian cysts, as well as “headaches, liver disorders, constipation, intestinal disorders, gallbladder inflammation or stones, and conditions with poor elimination.”

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil originates in the seeds of the castor-oil plant (ricinus communis). Frequently used as a food additive and preservative, its ingested claim to fame is as a laxative, and it is possible to overdose on castor oil, which can be fatal. Castor oil is known as a natural remedy with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

The castor-oil plant is native to India, and it thrives in tropical latitudes, where it grows into a 30-foot-tall tree. In Mediterranean countries it reaches about 10 feet and half that farther north, where it looks more like a shrub than a tree. A detailed description of castor-oil plant farming and seed processing can be found at Botanical.com.

How Castor-Oil Packs Work

Castor-oil packs, applied directly to the skin and warmed, allow the oil to penetrate the skin and relax the smooth muscle underneath. The oil is said to increase circulation and stimulate the lymph system. The increased circulation helps cells receive nutrition and eliminate waste. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, applying castor oil directly to the skin can improve immune function by increasing the lymphocyte count (disease-fighting cells). “One benefit of this is the more efficient removal of toxins from your tissues, which promotes faster healing,” says Mercola, a licensed physician and surgeon, who is also a New York Times best-selling author.

How to Make and Use Your Own Castor-Oil Packs

You can make your own castor-oil packs by soaking a piece of cotton or wool flannel with castor oil and applying the soaked flannel to the affected area. Cover with plastic wrap and a heating pad or hot-water bottle for an hour, at varying frequencies. The temperature should be as hot as bearable, because this will help to force the castor oil into the skin. Be aware that castor oil will stain clothing.

Considerations on the Use of Castor-Oil Packs

Before you run out to your local pharmacy or alternative-health store, you will want to consider a few considerations regarding castor-packs. Skin irritations are possible, and when used for extended sessions, gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported. You might wish to discuss the use of castor-oil packs with your health professional, especially if you are pregnant. It’s also important to consider the source of the castor oil you purchase. According to Dr. Mercola, a lot of commercial castor oil has been extracted from pesticide-treated seeds. Solvents are often used in the extraction and chemicals in the processing. “This damages the quality of the oil and even raises your risk of being contaminated with agricultural toxins,” he says.

The list of uses for castor-oil packs seems to be endless—from soothing wounds to treating skin cancer, and within the abdomen, for treating a variety of ailments, detoxing, and improving overall organ health. As with all treatments and remedies, performing a reasonable amount of research, using reputable resources, will help you decide if castor-oil packs are for you.

Ann Silverthorn writes about a wide variety of topics in numerous genres. She recently completed a biography of William E. Dimorier (1871-1951), a forgotten poet and educator, who dedicated his life to service and leadership and is seeking publication. Several new projects are imminent.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AnnSilverthorn

Twitter: @annsilverthorn

Instagram: ann_silverthorn