Hello Folks,

Have any of you ever used a castor oil pack, and if so, did you like it, what did you use it for? I have started to do so this week and am really wanting to have first hand feedback on it, please an thanks

I am doing the typical castor oil pack, I have pulled it from this site, rather then write it out in my own words but its the same process.

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/CastorOilPack.htm

What is a Castor Oil Pack?

A castor oil pack involves the use of cloth soaked in castor oil which is placed on the skin. It’s used by some alternative practitioners to enhance circulation and to promote the healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. Alternative practitioners also use it to improve liver function, relieve pain, reduce inflammation and to improve digestion.

How is a Castor Oil Pack Made?

Castor oil packs are made by soaking a piece of flannel in castor oil and placing it on the skin. The flannel is covered with a sheet of plastic, and then a hot water bottle is placed over the plastic to heat the pack.

A castor oil pack can be placed on the following body regions:

• The right side of the abdomen. Castor oil packs are sometimes recommended by alternative practitioners as part of a liver detox program.
• Inflamed and swollen joints, bursitis, and muscle strains.
• The abdomen to relieve constipation and other digestive disorders.
• The lower abdomen in cases of menstrual irregularities and uterine and ovarian cysts.

Safety

Castor oil should not be taken internally. It should not be applied to broken skin. It should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or during menstruation.

Materials

• Three layers of undyed wool or cotton flannel large enough to cover the affected area
• Castor oil
• Plastic wrap cut one to two inches larger than the flannel (can be cut from a plastic bag)
• Hot water bottle
• Container with lid
• Old clothes and sheets. Castor oil will stain clothing and bedding.

Method

1. Place the flannel in the container. Soak it in castor oil so that it is saturated, but not dripping.

2. Place the pack over the affected body part.

3. Cover with plastic.

4. Place the hot water bottle over the pack. Leave it on for 45-60 minutes. Rest while the pack is in place.

5. After removing the pack, cleanse the area with a dilute solution of water and baking soda.

6. Store the pack in the covered container in the refrigerator. Each pack may be reused up to 25-30 times.