POV: Your sleep hygiene is good, your supplements are on, and you’re eating a lot of protein. But let’s be honest: there is always Room for improvement – especially in the area of hormonal balance. Enter castor oil packets. They’re an underrated wellness tool to add to your self-care list. As a woman with PCOS, they have been extremely helpful in relieving my symptoms. But besides PCOS, there are plenty of reasons to try castor oil packs! If you’re considering giving it a try (thanks to a popular TikTok video or your loyal acupuncturist), scroll on for the scoop on this natural, low-effort way to balance your body.
Featured image taken from Michelle Nash’s interview with Remi Ishizuka.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of Wellness with Edie, a nutritional coaching company. Drawing on her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormonal balance, and postpartum health.
Ancient remedies, modern solutions
While modern health trends come and go, castor oil packs have stood the test of time. They have a rich history (going all the way back to ancient Egypt!) where essential oils were revered for their healing properties. Fast forward to today: These kits are viewed in natural health circles as holistic tools for detoxing, balancing hormones, easing digestion, and more.
What are castor oil packs?
Essentially, castor oil packs are exactly what they sound like – packs soaked in castor oil that are applied to the body, usually with heat. Simple in essence, powerful in effect.
Details are as follows:
- castor oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
- cloth: Use organic cotton or wool flannel to absorb oil.
- Heat source: Place a heating pad or hot water bottle over the pack to help the oil penetrate deeper into the body.
When applied to the skin, castor oil packs can increase circulation and promote healing in the targeted area, whether it’s the liver, abdomen, or joints. Best of all, they’re an affordable and effective tool to enhance your natural health habits.
Who should use castor oil packs?
Overall, anyone looking to enhance their health can benefit from castor oil packs.
- Women with hormonal imbalances: Castor oil packs may help balance hormones and support reproductive health.
- People with digestive problems: If you suffer from bloating, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome, castor oil packs may provide relief.
- People suffering from inflammation: Since castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties, this mask can soothe swollen or uncomfortable areas.
- People with skin conditions: From acne to psoriasis, castor oil packs can help calm irritated skin.
Precautions: Consult your healthcare provider before using castor oil packs, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Benefits of castor oil packs
While most of the evidence is anecdotal, studies suggest castor oil can reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Many women swear by castor oil packs to help treat conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and indigestion. As mentioned, they have been part of my PCOS treatment journey Year. Here are the reasons to use castor oil packs:
digestive system
indigestion? Castor oil packs may help. Applying them to the abdomen may help reduce bloating, improve bowel movements, and soothe inflamed bowels.
lymphatic system
Castor oil is thought to aid in lymphatic drainage, helping to detoxify the body by promoting the flow of lymph fluid, which is essential for immune function.
circulatory system
By improving blood flow, castor oil packs can relieve tension (and pain), including cramps and muscle soreness.
reproductive system
This is where castor oil packs come into focus. Women use them to support menstrual health, aid fertility and balance hormones.
Castor oil packs promote hormonal health
When it comes to reproductive health, castor oil packs can help minimize hormonal imbalances. how so? They promote better circulation to our reproductive organs and liver (where hormone metabolism (i.e. estrogen) occurs). If you regularly experience PMS, period pain, or are dealing with fertility challenges, you may notice improvements with castor oil packs. For hormonal health, specifically, use castor oil packs 2-3 times a week.
Best time of month to use castor oil packs
Ideally, during the follicular phase (first half of the cycle). Note: If you are trying to get pregnant, avoid using castor oil packs during menstruation and after ovulation.
- Follicular phase – first day of ovulation: Consider using castor oil packs during the first two weeks of your menstrual cycle. This phase focuses on building and nurturing the body’s energy reserves and is a great time to promote detoxification, support liver function, and increase circulation to the reproductive organs.
- Luteal phase – after ovulation: You can also use castor oil packs during the luteal phase. However, if you want to get pregnant, avoid After ovulation. Increased abdominal temperature may interfere with early pregnancy.
Have you ever experienced heavy bleeding? Use castor oil packs with caution. On the one hand, you may find relief from period pain, but heat and increased circulation may worsen bleeding.
What are other reasons to use castor oil packs?
In addition to hormonal balance and digestion, castor oil packs can support:
- Beauty and Skin Care: Castor oil nourishes the skin and can be used to treat dry skin and even promote hair growth!
- Pain relief: The soothing properties of castor oil packs can relieve muscle soreness, joint pain, and menstrual cramps.
- Detoxification: Regular use (2-4 times per week) supports liver detoxification and promotes the body’s natural elimination process.
- Reduce stress: Experience the soothing warmth of castor oil packs for instant stress relief and relaxation.
How often should you use castor oil packs?
Ideally, 2-4 times a week. You may notice benefits within a few weeks (but this depends on your consistency and the issues you’re dealing with). In terms of duration, try to keep it between 45-60 minutes. While you’re at it, relax! Read, call a friend, listen to calming music, meditate, or watch a movie. As far as side effects go, most people don’t experience them. (Although you may find that the oil is a little messy or has slight Skin irritation.
How to Make Castor Oil Packets
Ready to make your own? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials required:
- Organic castor oil
- Organic wool or cotton flannel cloth
- Plastic wrap (optional to prevent mess)
- Heating pad or hot water bottle
- Old towels (castor oil will stain)
How to apply:
- Soak the cloth in the castor oil until saturated but not dripping.
- Place the cloth over the desired area (most commonly the liver or abdomen).
- If desired, cover the cloth with plastic wrap and place a towel on top.
- Use a heat source and heat for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Relax – read a book or listen to soothing music while the backpack works its magic.
Safety tips: Always test a small amount of oil on skin first to rule out any allergic reaction. If you are pregnant, avoid using castor oil packs unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
The same cloth can be reused multiple times by storing it in a clean, sealed bag between uses.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
For best results, store the cloth and oil in an airtight bag or container between uses. This will help you avoid contamination. Most importantly, stay consistent! Regular use will help you get the most out of your castor oil packs. Last but not least, consider combining it with other natural health habits such as dry brushing, Epsom salt baths, or herbal teas to enhance its effects.
How to tell if your castor oil pack is actually Employed
Tune in to how your body responds during and after each session. You may feel an increase in warmth in the applied area along with a wave of relaxation and stress relief. Also, look for signs of relief such as discomfort or bloating (meaning the backpack is increasing circulation and relieving tension). These are all good stuff! Over time, you may notice improvements in your menstrual cycle or hormonal balance. May your castor oil packs become a much-loved part of your health toolbox.
Before using castor oil packs, talk to your healthcare provider (especially if you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding). While many people find them beneficial, individual results may vary.
