Castor Oil Pack Therapy*
Procedure:
- Take the organic, unbleached, cotton flannel out of the bag and cut 2 layers.
- The size of flannel cut depends on how large the area to be treated. Example, if using over the lower abdomen, an entire ‘sheet’ size could be used of around 8 ½ x 11”. If a medium sized area is needed for application like a single breast, try a ‘half sheet’ of around 5 x 8”. For smaller areas like a thyroid, use your judgement, so long as the area in question is covered.
- Place a sheet of plastic such as cling wrap or a produce bag on the counter and place the 2 layers of flannel sheets on top, leaving at least 3” or more excess plastic wrap on all sides.
- Apply the castor oil evenly over the flannel. Drizzle it on and spread in with your hand. Don’t worry if every inch is not covered, as most will soak in after a while anyway.
- Apply the soaked flannel to the area needed, with the plastic on the outside. Make sure to wrap well, or some castor oil may leak off the sides. Next, apply a hot pack over the castor pack, on top of the plastic wrap (you’ll be glad you used the plastic wrap). Electric packs are best, as warm water packs or ‘seed’ bags cool off too quickly. Hot packs are not essential, but I've found over the years it makes the therapy a bit more effective.
- Consider using a large towel or similar under your body part so any flooring or furniture is not dripped on by the oil if it leaks. Leave on for 1-2 hours per session. Use 1-5x a week, depending on the issue.
- Each castor pack, once the oil has been applied, may be used 3-4 times. Simply place is a Ziploc bag in the refrigerator between uses. Throw away and start over once all the sessions are completed.
- Do not use heat in cases of any suspected appendicitis, infection, pregnancy, or open wounds of any type.
WHY? Castor oil pack therapy has a long history of clinical use for its anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, analgesic, lymph and immune benefits. Testimonials, clinical experience, and books have shown positive health benefits for over a hundred years.
HOW TO ORDER: The quality of both the cotton (or wool) sheets and the oil vary considerably, which is why I only suggest the versions on our web Virtual Pharmacy. You can often find it as a complete kit. The cotton flannel sheets (or wool option) and the oil may be purchased separately if preferred. Best brands include Baar Products, Premier Research Labs, Heritage, and Banyan Botanicals. Remember all my pharmacy products are 20% off. Always!
References:
1) International Journal of Naturopathic Medicine. 2012 March; volume 5.
2) webMD.com. The Health Benefits of Castor Oil. 2023 September 20.
3) Complementary Therapy in Clinical Practice. 2011 Feb; 17 (1): 58-62.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
