Raleigh Chiropractor Recommends Castor Oil Packs

Castor Oil Packs

One of the most useful home therapies I recommend to patients is the use of castor oil packs.  I've read that humankind has been using castor oil packs for about 3000 years.  During the Middle Ages, castor oil was known as the Oil of Christ. 

I recommend castor oil packs for their detoxification and anti-inflammatory properties.  The packs can be applied to the lower abdomen for assistance with digestive distress (constipation, IBS, chronic indigestion and bloating), menstrual cramps, uterine fibroids, UTI prevention, cystitis, as well as to the breasts and liver.  The heat provided by the castor oil pack helps to provide warmth to organs that are over-stimulated.  The pack also has strong detoxifcation qualities and has been known to assist with bile flow in the liver and inflammation in organs or joints.  I do not recommend using the packs on the head.

To make a castor oil pack, you’ll need a good quality castor oil, a wool flannel, hot water bottle/heating pad, plastic and rags/towels. Most natural food stores sell both the castor oil and wool flannel.

First, cut in half a plastic grocery bag and lay flat. Pour or soak the flannel in the castor oil until saturated but do not let it drip. Lay the soaked flannel across the abdomen and place the open plastic bag on top. Next, place a rag or old towel on top and then the hot water bottle/heating pad. Lie still for 45-60 minutes. When finished, remove the flannel and wash the area with a solution of baking soda and water. Beware that castor oil can stain so keep away from clothing. 


I generally recommend the castor oil pack every 2-3 days until symptoms improve. 

Jennifer Greenfield D.C.

Raleigh Chiropractor Recommends Castor Oil Packs