Since the olden days, castor oil has been widely used because of its detoxifying properties. It has been used since ancient times in Africa, China, Egypt, Greece, India, Persia and Rome. Castor oil is extracted by crushing the mature castor beans. It may be used internally (when in pure form) or applied topically for its laxative and detoxifying natures. When the liver is not capable of expelling the toxins naturally, it may result in the deposition of toxins in the fat cells, leading to serious ailments like uterine fibroids, breast cysts, endometriosis and other complications in women. Hence, liver detox programs are essential for women with these problems.
What Is Castor Oil Therapy?
Castor oil pack is used for curing various reasons like:
- detoxifying the liver
- relieving pain
- removing gallstones
- curing cirrhosis or torpid liver
- reducing inflammation
- curing arthritis, colitis cholecystitis and appendicitis
- improving digestion
Castor oil pack is more commonly used as part of the liver detox program. This pack can be placed on the right side of the abdomen to detoxify the liver.
Detoxifying Functions of Castor Oil
When castor oil pack is placed over the right portion of the lower abdomen, it stimulates the functions of liver and kidney. It aids in the healthy and proper digestion, assimilation of nutrients and bowels elimination. As it increases the lymphatic cleaning and circulation, it is believed to detoxify the body of all harmful toxins.
This pack can also regulate the menstrual cycles of women. When the castor oil pack is applied on the respective body areas, it is found to detoxify the liver and stimulate the reproductive organs by improving the circulation. Hence, it may also cure infertility problems. Apart from all these, this oil pack can also reduce tumors and cysts, thereby reducing the joint pains.
Using a Castor Oil Pack
High-quality cold-pressed castor oil is required if it is going to be used for detox purpose. You will also need a cotton or woolen flannel, hot water pack and plastic wrap.
Warm the castor oil and soak the flannel in it. Place this flannel on your abdomen and secure its position by means of a plastic wrap. Place a clean old cloth over it and apply hot compresses using a hot water pack. Allow this flannel to stay on your abdomen by lying down for at least 2 hours. Then, clean the area with water mixed with baking soda (2 tsp in 500 ml water).
Other Forms of Castor Oil Therapy
To detox the liver, another alternative method of castor oil therapy is to take it orally. Mix 40 ml of pure and organic castor oil in a glass of milk and shake nicely for 5 minutes. Drink this on empty stomach in the morning time. As castor oil is a purgative, it disturbs the enterohepatic cycle and releases heavy amounts of toxins from the liver. Thus, the liver can be detoxified thoroughly.
Word of Caution
Do not use poor quality castor oil as the oil penetrates the skin. Taking castor oil orally is also not advisable if it is of poor quality, and avoid it during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy and also if you are breast feeding.
