Castor Oil Pack Treatment
Castor oil packs aid in the elimination and detoxification of the body.
Indications: The castor oil pack has many applications and is used in many conditions including uterine fibroids, non-malignant ovarian cysts, headaches, migraines, abdominal pain un-explained, nerve pain, constipation, colitis and other intestinal disorders, gall bladder and liver conditions, arthritis and chest colds.
Contraindications: Do not use heat with uterine growths, bleeding, pregnancy, ulcers or while menstruating. Do not fall asleep while using the electric heating pad.
Supplies:
- Flannel cloth (cotton or wool; 20-40 inches by 24-48 inches)
- Plastic wrap (clear kitchen wrap or plastic bag without ink)
- Glass dish (square 9×9 inch Pyrex or similar container)
- Bath towel
- Hot water bottle or hot gel pack
- Two safety pins
- Six ounces of castor oil
Directions: Choose a container to store and heat the castor oil pack. Fold the flannel or wool cloth 2-4 times, so that it is several layers thick and a suitable size to cover recommended body area.
Pour oil onto flannel until it is well moistened. Heat flannel/oil in glass dish in oven or microwave to a comfortable temperature. The pack should be very hot, but not hot enough to burn your skin. Lie down placing flannel directly on skin over the treatment area. Place plastic wrap that is 1-2 inches larger than flannel on all sides over the flannel and plastic and pin in place. If using heat, apply hot water bottle or hot gel pack over the treatment area. Rest. You may use this time to meditate or use visualization techniques.
Treatment should continue for at least 1 hour. Longer treatments are not harmful, though it is not advisable to fall asleep with the heating pad on. You may replace the flannel pack in the glass container and store in refrigerator. This flannel and oil may be used for 20-25 applications.
To remove the oily feel to skin afterwards, wash skin or towel in a solution of 3 tablespoons baking soda/qt of water.
Usage of Castor Oil Pack
Your clinician will recommend the frequency of use. Typically, the castor oil pack is used 1-3 times/day in acute situations, and 1-3 times/week in more chronic situations.