All About Castor Oil
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
What is Castor Oil?
Castor oil comes from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, and is made up of about 85-90% ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that is uncommon in meaningful amounts in mother other plan oils.
Oils like olive and coconut are primally made of fatty acids that are great for nourishing and protecting tissue, but ricinoleic acid has documented pharmacologic activity, particularly In the digestive tract.
Research shows it can stimulate intestinal smooth muscle and increase bowel motility, which if you missed it...comment HEALING for my constipation guide. It also has been studied for topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and emerging research for circulation and lymphatic support.
Castor Oil Uses
Constipation, bowel motility bloating
Lymphatic stimulation, fluid retention
Join pain, muscle soreness, menstrual cramping
Coughs, congestion, sore throats
Fascia softening, tissue mobility
Scar tissue and stretch mark support
Tummy massage, cradle cap support
What to Look for in Castor Oil
Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil packs work through a combination of the oil itself, the warmth against the skin, and gentle pressure. This combo helps increase local circulation, which supports tissue repair and overall organ function. Ricinoleic acid, the primary fatty acid in castor oil, has studied anti-inflammatory properties that may help calm irritated tissues and reduce tension.
The warmth and pressure also help localize blood flow, encourage lymphatic movement, soften fascia and connective tissue, modulate pain signals, support organ motility, improve topical absorption, and shift the body into a more parasympathetic, “rest and repair” state.
Common Castor Oil Pack Placements
How to Do a Castor Oil Pack
If you don’t have a pack, you can DIY with a cotton, wool, or flannel cloth. And cover it with plastic wrap or a towel to hold it in place.
Start with ~15-30 min and then you can work your way up overnight
*do not use if pregnant
COMMON QUESTIONS
click to enlarge
Comments