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This post is all about how to make your own castor oil pack at home and the 5 Surprising health benefits of castor oil packs.
What is a castor oil pack?
A castor oil pack is a popular natural remedy consisting of a piece of cloth that is saturated with castor oil and then applied to a desired area of the body. Typically, a plastic wrap or towel is placed over the top along with a heating pad to encourage deeper penetration which also promotes relaxation due to the heat.
Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant which is native to tropical regions and has been used to treat various health issues dating back many years in history. It has a thick odourless consistency and is often used topically like with castor oil packs and it can also be taken orally.
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The benefits of castor oil packs
5 Health benefits of castor oil packs:
- Lymphatic drainage
- Aids in liver detoxification and support
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes clear skin
- Improves immune function
Ricinoleic acid (RA) is the main component present in castor oil which brings forth many health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties, pain-reducing and lymphatic drainage effects.
One of the many amazing benefits of castor oil packs is that they can improve immune function. It is known that castor oil increases a type of white blood cell (T=11 cells) which gives immune-boosting effects.
Due to castor oil packs being able to assist with stimulating the lymphatic system, this excellent natural detoxification method not only helps to flush toxins from the body but it can also contribute to clearer skin in the process.
Benefits of castor oil packs summary
Notes + Who should not use castor oil packs
It is recommended to avoid using castor oil packs:
- If you have an IUD because it can become dislodged
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- It is typically not recommended to use whilst menstruating as it can cause heavier bleeding
Important notes:
- Do not use on children unless advised by a doctor or a qualified medical professional
- Do not heat the oil and the cloth in a microwave as it can catch fire
- Castor oil can stain fabric so make sure to lay down a towel before use
- It is recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin at least 24 hours before use
- Stay hydrated after using a castor oil pack to support the body with the detoxication process
How to make a DIY castor oil pack at home
What you will need:
- Good quality organic castor oil (hexane-free)
- Large towel
- Hot water bottle
- Cloth (Unbleached/organic cotton is recommended)
- Plastic sheet/bag
- Glass container or bowl
- Old clothes (If preferred as the oil can stain)
You can also use a wrap-around castor oil pack compress like this one here that has a zip compartment for your hot water bottle. It also comes with different size variations of packs for various parts of the body.
How to use a castor oil pack
Step 1. Place your cloth in the glass container and drizzle the castor oil over it until saturated
Step 2. Prepare your hot water bottle
Step 3. Prepare your area by placing a towel down (a couch or bed works great!)
Step 4. Lay down and place the cloth over your desired area (The liver is a common placement, just below your ribcage on your right side)
Step 5. Place the plastic wrap over the cloth covering it
Step 6. Then place your hot water bottle over the top
Tip: If you feel that the hot water bottle is too hot when placed over the top of the plastic, you can add an old towel over the plastic and then place the hot water bottle on top
Step 7. Relax for 30-60 minutes with your feet slightly elevated. You may wish to grab some reading material or put on some relaxing music to pass the time!
Step 8. When the time is up, wipe off the excess oil with natural soap or a mix of baking soda and water
Other ways castor oil can be used
Castor oil is also commonly used for cosmetic purposes. It is super moisturizing on the skin and when applied to the face, it is said to reduce the look of wrinkles and dark circles leading to a rejuvenated, firmer-looking appearance of the skin. It is also said to reduce acne with its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties however there is not much evidence currently to back this up in regards to the treatment of acne.
Castor oil is used in both DIY and commercial haircare products due to its nourishing effects, it also contributes to hair growth!
Tip: Mix together a few drops of rosemary essential oil + 2 tbsp of castor oil + 2 tbsp of coconut oil and use as a pre-wash hair mask treatment to moisturise the scalp and stimulate hair growth. Repeat once a week for best results.
For another simple and natural DIY hair mask hack, check out this two-ingredient recipe for hair growth.
Many people also add castor oil to their eyebrows overnight for thicker, fuller hair. It can also be added to the eyelashes with a spoolie brush overnight however, you should ensure that your eyelashes are fully clean before application.
Thanks for stopping by & reading!
This post was all about the health benefits of castor oil packs and how to make your own DIY castor oil pack at home.
