Bayou Health | Castor Oil

BY SHANNON DAHLUM, FDN-P 

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m seeing a lot of information pop up lately about castor oil. Social media influencers are touting the benefits of adding drops of the oil into their belly buttons for digestive health, massaging it into their face to reverse aging, and wrapping cloths soaked in it around achey joints for making inflammation disappear. It all sounds a bit far fetched, but I have to admit that I’ve seen positive results from the use of castor oil liver packs in both myself and my clients. Naturally, I had to dive a bit deeper to learn more about the real benefits of castor oil and what it can actually do to support our wellbeing. Here’s what I’ve learned… Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid that accounts for approximately 90% of its composition. Ricinoleic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. This makes castor oil particularly effective when applied to the skin, whether in targeted areas of pain, over the ribcage for liver support, or even as part of a lymphatic drainage routine. Unlike oils that are primarily moisturizing, castor oil has a deep-penetrating effect and acts almost like a carrier, encouraging movement within tissues. It also promotes circulation and lymphatic flow, making it especially useful in protocols aimed at reducing congestion in the body. One of the most common applications for the oil is with a castor oil pack. This typically involves soaking a piece of wool or flannel cloth in organic castor oil, placing it over a specific part of the body (commonly the abdomen or lower back), and then covering it with plastic wrap or a barrier and a heating pad or hot water bottle. Packs are often worn for 30–60 minutes while resting, or even overnight for deeper therapeutic effects. At first, this sort of practice sounds like an old wives tale with no merit, but several modern studies and clinical observations support its benefits for supporting liver function and detoxification, reducing inflammation and pain, and improving lymphatic flow and circulation. One of the most popular uses for castor oil packs is liver support. By placing a pack over the liver (the right upper quadrant of the abdomen), many practitioners believe the oil promotes gentle detoxification. I personally have experienced more solid sleep while wearing a pack overnight, and have seen many of my clients gain the same benefit. Because the liver plays a major role in managing blood sugar regulation overnight, I believe it can help prevent blood sugar crashes from sluggish liver function, which spikes cortisol and wakes us up. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Naturopathic Medicine observed that individuals who used abdominal castor oil packs regularly showed improved liver enzyme levels, suggesting a potential role in supporting hepatic detox pathways. Though the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, the oil’s ability to increase lymphatic circulation likely plays a part. Thanks to its high concentration of ricinoleic acid, castor oil is a natural anti-inflammatory. Studies, including a 2010 randomized controlled trial in the International Journal of Nursing and Health Science, showed that castor oil packs significantly reduced arthritic pain and joint swelling in elderly participants when applied topically to the knees over several weeks. This makes it a promising tool for people dealing with joint pain or arthritis, menstrual cramps (although it may cause heavy bleeding, so proceed with caution during menstruation), lower back tension, and muscle soreness from overuse or injury. Healthy lymphatic flow is essential for detoxification, immune health, and overall vitality. Castor oil packs have been shown to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” state), which naturally promotes better lymph movement and drainage. A 1999 pilot study published in Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery found that patients who used castor oil packs experienced a temporary increase in lymphocyte production, suggesting a positive effect on immune modulation. This is especially relevant for people with chronic fatigue, sluggish digestion, post-viral symptoms, and puffy lymph nodes or fluid retention. Topical application of castor oil over the abdomen can support digestion. Though traditionally used internally as a laxative (with strong and often unpleasant effects), topical use is gentler and still effective at stimulating peristalsis- the wave-like motion of the intestines that moves matter through the system and produces bowel movement. Many users report better bowel movements after using abdominal packs in the evening, especially when combined with adequate hydration and fiber intake. This can be particularly helpful for those experiencing constipation related to stress, travel, or detoxification protocols.

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack: Step-by-Step What You’ll Need 
• *Cold-pressed, organic hexane-free castor oil, packaged in a glass bottle (avoid plastic) 
• *Organic cotton flannel or wool cloth 
• *Plastic wrap or barrier layer 
• Heating pad or hot water bottle 
• Old towel (to protect bedding or clothing) 
*Note that you can alternatively purchase pre-made castor oil packs and oil at Fiesta on Eighteenth.

Instructions
1. Soak the cloth with enough castor oil to saturate it, but not dripping. 2. Place the cloth over the desired area (e.g., abdomen, liver, or joints). 3. Cover with plastic wrap and place a heat source on top. 4. Relax for 30–60 minutes. 5. After use, store the cloth in a sealed container in the fridge and reuse it up to 30 times, adding more oil as needed. 6. Clean the skin with a mild soap or use a mixture of baking soda and water to remove any residue. For general wellness, 2–3 times per week is sufficient. For targeted support (e.g., during a detox protocol or menstrual cycle), packs can be used daily for 4–7 days in a row.

Castor oil is generally safe for topical use, but there are a few precautions:
• Pregnancy: Avoid using castor oil packs on the abdomen during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare provider.
• Skin Sensitivities: Some individuals may develop a rash or irritation. Always perform a patch test before full use.
• Active Infections or Open Wounds: Do not apply castor oil to broken skin or areas with infection.
• In some women, wearing a castor oil pack during menstruation can cause heavy bleeding, and it should be avoided in those cases.

Castor oil may not be flashy and it certainly isn’t a cure-all, but it’s simple and accessible, and studies have shown its effectiveness. Whether you’re looking to support your liver, ease joint pain, or improve digestion, incorporating castor oil packs into your weekly routine is a gentle and effective way to support your body’s natural healing systems.