Signs and Symptoms that a Castor Oil Pack is just right for you
What if I told you there is a quick and easy way to increase your health that is inexpensive and can easily be integrated into your day? Welcome to the wonderful world of castor oil packs.
The Beauty of Castor Oil
Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. Even better, it has been shown to be anti-inflammatory, too. This powerful plant is native to India, Eastern Africa and the Mediterranean has been used for centuries for its healing properties and as a beauty aid. In fact, many women still use it today for dry hair, brittle nails and around their eyes and on their eyelashes.
As a pack, castor oil positively influences the smooth muscle in your body. Smooth lining can be found in the hollow organs of your body, throughout the digestive tract, and reproductive organs (for both men and women).
Castor Oil Packs are indicated if you suffer from the following:
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headaches
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constipation
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low bile production
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digestive issues
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hormonal issues
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IBS
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acute and chronic inflammation
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arthritis
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uterine fibroids
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endometriosis
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ovarian cysts
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breast cysts
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pelvic adhesions
In addition, castor oil packs support immune health and lymph circulation and increase lymphocytes. Placed directly over the liver it increased circulation to this organ and increases detoxification.
How often should I do a Castor Oil Pack session?
Constipation: Once a day for 3-4 days. Take a break and see if things have gotten better. Repeat on day 6 for another 3 days if necessary.
During detox: Once a day for 5 days, 1-2 day break. Repeat 5 days on 2 days off for the duration of your detox. Place the cloth from front to back over your liver.
Light periods, short periods (1-2 days) brown spotting before/after your period: Every other day during your cycle, then every day during your period.
Polyps / Fibroids: Every other day until you get your period.
Preconception: Everyday except for your period. Typically I find 3 times a week, for example, Monday, Wednesday and Friday is quite doable for my clients.
Trying to conceive (TTC): During the first half of the menstrual cycle up to ovulation.
Castor oil packs can be placed over the abdomen – all the way to the pubic bone unless otherwise indicated. Women with an IUD should place the castor oil pack over their liver, not their abdomen as this might be too stimulating to the uterus.
Please note castor oil packs are contraindicated during menstruation and pregnancy – the exception is to induce labor. A qualified mid-wife or OBGYN can opt to use castor oil to induce contractions to move labor along. Castor oil packs are not to be used with cancerous tumors.
Castor oil packs are fantastic for your overall health and well-being and are easy to use. Learn here how to do a castor oil pack.
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In health,
Anne
The information provided is for informational purposes only. This article is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness. For your specific health concerns, please consult your physician or a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Sources:
Prevention of adhesion formation, European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Biology, 2012 Dec; 165 (2) 337-41 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22921574
Grady H. Immunomodulation through castor oil packs. The Journal of Naturopathic Medicine. Vol 7 Jan 1 1998; (7) 84-89
Vieira C et al. Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflammation, 2000;9 (5) 223-228
Kennedy D, Keaton D. Evidence for the Topical Application of Castor oil: A Systematic Review. CCNM. Presentation 2010 AANP