How to Do a Castor Oil Pack (and Why They Help With Bloating & Cramps)

If you struggle with bloating, inflammation, period pain, or sluggish digestion, castor oil packs are a gentle at-home therapy I often recommend to patients. They’ve been used for centuries across cultures and continue to be one of the most versatile natural tools for supporting detoxification and pelvic health.

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is made from the bean of the Ricinus communis plant. It has a long history in traditional medicine and is considered to be a natural lymphagogue, meaning it helps stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid through your body.  This matters because your lymphatic system is responsible for collecting damaged cells, waste products, and toxins and moving them out of the body. Supporting lymph flow can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and enhance detoxification

What Does Castor Oil Do?

When used topically, castor oil has been shown to increase circulation and promote healing in the tissues and organs underneath the skin.

More specifically, castor oil packs may help:

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve digestion and relieve constipation

• Support liver detoxification

• Promote lymphatic movement

• Support hormonal balance

• Reduce bloating and menstrual cramping

• Ease pelvic or abdominal tension

  
  

In my clinical experience, castor oil packs are especially helpful for bloating and period pain.

How Do I Do a Castor Oil Pack?

There are two simple ways to use this medicine - the more traditional way (which will give the best effect) and the quick and easy way (still works!)

First you will need

• Castor oil

• A square piece of flannel, an old towel, or an old T-shirt (it will stain)

• Heating pad or hot water bottle

  
  

Traditional How-to

1. Find a quiet place to sit or lie down and relax.

2. Saturate one side of the flannel with castor oil.

3. Place the flannel over your abdomen.

4. Add a heating pad or hot water bottle on top and relax for 45–60 minutes.

5. Remove everything. If oil remains on your skin, wipe it off with warm water or massage in a small amount of a lighter oil (like olive oil) to help remove it completely.

6. Store your castor-soaked flannel in a sealed bag in the fridge. You can reuse it up to 30 times.

   
   

Quick and Easy How-to

1. Before bed, apply a quarter-sized amount of castor oil to your abdomen.

2. Rub it in gently in a clockwise direction.

3. Put on an old T-shirt.

4. Get into bed and let it absorb as you sleep. (Optional: Add a heating pad for 20–30 minutes before falling asleep — but do not sleep with it on.)

   
   

A Few Safety Notes

Castor oil packs are generally very safe, but it is best to avoid using them:

• During pregnancy

• On broken, irritated, or infected skin

• If you have decreased sensation in your abdomen (be cautious with heat)

• Over your uterus while menstruating - however you can still apply it to your upper abdomen for liver support!

  
  

Want to Learn More?

If you’re curious about how castor oil packs can support your digestion, hormones, or menstrual health, feel free to email me or schedule a visit. I’d love to guide you on how to use this therapy safely and effectively.