Why I Started Using Castor Oil Packs for my Health

I started using castor oil packs when I was in my early 20’s.

 I had an ovarian cyst rupture and it was the most painful experience of my life to date. No exaggeration.

After a trip to the ER I discovered that I had another small grapefruit sized cyst still intact. I declined surgery or further intervention in search for another treatment option.

Castor oil packs were the obvious choice. For starters, castor oil is most abundant known source of ricinoleic acid at a whopping average of 90% of its composition. Ricinoleic acid has unique properties and is responsible for many of the therapeutic benefits associated with castor oil when used topically.

Castor oil packs are my absolute favorite way of using castor oil topically. Here are some key benefits of using castor oil packs regularly:

1. Liver Detoxification: Castor oil packs are believed to stimulate the liver thus promoting detoxification. The oil is thought to increase circulation and enhance the liver's ability to filter toxins from the blood.

2. Relieves Pain and Inflammation: Applying a castor oil pack to areas of pain, such as joints or muscles, can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. It is commonly used for conditions like arthritis and muscle strains.

3. Improves Digestive Health: Placing a castor oil pack on the abdomen is believed to support digestive health. It may help relieve constipation, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues by stimulating bowel movements and reducing inflammation.

4. Boosts Immune Function: The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil can support immune function by reducing inflammation in the body. This may help the body better cope with infections and other immune-related conditions.

5. Promotes Relaxation: Using a castor oil pack can have a calming effect on the body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. It is often used as part of a holistic approach to managing stress and anxiety.

6. Supports Menstrual Health: Women use castor oil packs on the abdomen to promote regular menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual cramps. It is believed to help balance hormones and reduce pain associated with menstruation.

7. Enhances Skin Health: Applying a castor oil pack to the skin can improve hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and dry patches.

8. Aids in Detoxification: By improving circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage, castor oil packs assist in the removal of toxins from the body. This detoxifying effect can contribute to overall health and well-being.

9. Supports Hormonal Balance: Some holistic practitioners suggest that using castor oil packs over the lower abdomen can help balance hormones, particularly in women experiencing hormonal imbalances or fertility issues.

10. Facilitates Sleep: Due to its relaxation and stress-relieving properties, using a castor oil pack before bedtime may promote better sleep quality and help you unwind.

When using castor oil packs, it's important to follow proper application techniques to ensure safety and effectiveness. You should always consult with a healthcare provider before using castor oil packs.

How I Use Them Today

I use my castor oil pack over my reproductive organs 3-5 days a week (except when I am on my period).

I also use this healing oil whenever I go into my infrared sauna.

The sauna provides the heat to allow the oil to penetrate deeper and applying the oil over my lymph nodes specifically underarms, neck, and breasts helps move lymph fluid and reduce inflammation in these areas speficically.

I also have a pack that is designed for use on my thyroid. I use this very much the same way except I do this 1-3 days a week and I do not sleep with it on. I simply put it on when I wake in the morning while milling around the house and making breakfast for about an hour.

After using the thyroid pack I always follow up with a pack over my liver to help detoxify whatever was dissolved during the thyroid pack.

I love that I can do something for my thyroid as a ritual outside of using supportive herbal medicine. I was diagnosed with Grave’s disease two years ago and I am now in remission. One of my biggest symptoms was a hyper vascular and inflamed thyroid gland. It is so wonderful that I can topically apply a castor oil pack to get rid of this excess inflammation and promote the euthyroid state I finally achieved after years of healing work.

Where to Get Your Own Packs and Oil

I strongly suggest purchasing your pack from Enhanced Health because the packs on Amazon are all from China and it is so hard to ensure their materials are really organic/non-toxic.

I use their “Better Period Castor Oil Pack Ultimate Kit” as well as their “Better Thyroid Castor Oil Pack - Ultimate Kit.” USE CODE ERICA10 FOR 10% OFF

Once you receive your pack you can start using it right away. I do not use my pack when I am bleeding, but I cycle 3-5 nights a week throughout the rest of my cycle.

How to care for your pack:

Every 8 weeks (approximately after 40 uses) wash your insert flannel.

1.  Begin by adding 4 tablespoons of baking soda to hot/warm water.

2. Immerse your insert flannel and leave to soak overnight.  Bicarbonate of soda will pull most of the castor oil up.

2. After soaking the flannel thoroughly wring the flannel and place in the washing machine on a gentle delicate wash with mild natural soap.

Leave to air dry on a line or drying rack. Do not put in the dryer.

Approximately every 6 months replace your insert. EH’s insert flannels feature 100% organic, triple-layered unbleached cotton.

I wish you the same successes I have witnessed in my own health while using this ancient healing oil.