Castor oil is derived from the bean of the castor plant.  When taken internally it acts as a powerful, purgative laxative, and as such has a negative image among people familiar with this effect.  (So please don’t take it internally!)

When applied topically the oil has the ability to penetrate up to 10cm of tissue.  As it moves through the tissue it causes a very mild irritation – not enough to cause discomfort, but enough to stimulate local circulation and increase blood flow to the area.  Increased circulation means an influx of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue, and improved removal of cellular waste products.

A castor oil pack (COP) may be a useful adjunctive therapy for digestive support and other conditions.

NB.  As COPs help to stimulate circulation, do not use over the pelvis during menstruation.  Consult your ND prior to using COPs, particularly if you have a bleeding disorder, ulcer, or other potentially relevant medical condition.

To make a COP:

  • Make a compress from large square of undyed cotton or wool cloth.  An old pillow case works well.
  • Drizzle the compress with ~1Tbsp of castor oil, or massage a handful of oil to the area and cover with the compress.
  • Apply the compress to the body, such as over the liver (the right ribcage above the waist), the entire abdomen, or painful joints.
  • A second layer of cloth and/or a layer of thin plastic applied over the COP prevents messiness, as does a large, dry towel placed over the plastic.
  • A hot water bottle may be used over the compress.   This makes the treatment more soothing and increases the effect of the COP as the heat helps to drive the oil into the body.
  • Leave in place for 30-60 min and repeat daily if possible, but even weekly is better than nothing!

Alternately (Dr. Wiley’s preference as it is much tidier AND includes a relaxing bath)…

  • Apply ~1Tbsp of castor oil to the part of the body to be treated before getting into a bath.  As oil and water do not mix, both the heat of the bath and the water itself help to drive the oil into the tissue.
  • Relax for 20-40 minutes.
  • Castor oil may be removed with soap prior to exiting the tub.
  • Enhance the experience further with Epsom salts and/or diluted essential oils in the bath!

Be sure to choose a castor oil that is specified to be “Cold pressed” or “Expeller pressed”  for best results.