Detox with Castor Oil

Castor Oil is often referred to as a powerful tool to aid in detoxification, and for good reason as this oil has been used medicinally for millennia. Let’s learn about it’s history, it’s numerous health benefits, and how to use it.

What is the History of Castor Oil?

Castor Oil has a long and illustrious history as a valuable medicinal oil native to India, the Mediterranean and Eastern Africa. It has been traced all around the world, from Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt through to Medieval Europe and the colonial Caribbean.

One of it’s earliest mentions was found in the fourth century writings of Herodotus. He called it ‘Kiki’, whereas one of its ancient sanskrit names was ‘Eranda’ (एरण्ड), and its Latin botanical name is ‘Ricinus’. The name ‘Castor’ originates from when it was cultivated for European markets in Jamaica in the eighteenth century.

Ancient physicians praised its purgative qualities and it was used externally for skin diseases, treating constipation and liver dis-ease up until the sixteenth century. However it has not been used as only a medicinal oil as it was also used for burning in lamps, and in making leather garments.

What are the Benefits of Castor Oil?

You can think of Castor Oil as a tool to purge your body of toxins, parasites and and infections. It is extremely good at gently, yet deeply cleansing your glands, and is thus a fabulous detox assistant. It has a reputation as a ‘heal all’ oil but it is especially good for liver and gallbladder ailments. You can also use it on warts and tumours. One of the best things about Castor Oil is how it really digs to the root of your disease, which of course then can lead to true detox and healing. It is really thanks to the ricinoleic acid in the oil, which is an unsaturated fatty acid, that the oil provides such great health benefits.

Here is a brief list of some of the dis-ease that Castor Oil can help you overcome:

• Lymphatic System Support
• Helps to Heal Acne
• Eases Constipation
• Fights Fungal Infections, Ringworm and Skin Infections
• Prevents the Growth of Mould, Yeast, Bacteria and Viruses
• Helps Hair to Grow (And Makes It Shinier!)
• Reduces the Pain of Sunburn
• Improves Immune Function
• Boosts Circulation
• Helps to Balance Hormones

How Can I Use a Castor Oil Pack?

It is fairly easy to apply Castor Oil Packs once you get the hang of it, and it’s a great opportunity to give yourself some ‘me time’. We recommend brewing a cup of Heal All Tea to sip while you do it. You can buy pre made packs, but if you want to do it yourself, follow these instructions:

Soak three layers of a cotton cloth with three tablespoons of Castor Oil (just ensure the cotton is free of pesticides otherwise your skin will absorb them). 

Place the cloth over the area you are focusing on, like the stomach.

Cover the cloth with a piece of plastic or clingwrap (so the heating pad doesn’t get oily) and then apply gentle heat for 1 hour.

For best results, aim for two to three sessions per week.

Are There Any Risks?

Pregnant women should not use Castor Oil, as it can induce labour. Also, do not overuse the oil, especially if you are consuming it orally as this can give you diarrhoea and in large quantities the oil is damaging to your health.

Have you used Castor Oil before? What is your experience? Let us know in the comments!