Castor Oil Packs

Castor Oil Packs

Although popularized by American mystic Edgar Cayce, castor oil has been used as a healing agent since ancient times. Castor oil is pressed from the large beans of the castor plant.  Also known as Palm Christie ( literally the hand of Christ ), castor is a heavy oil used for sealing in moisture. It is safe and soothing for all types of skin.

Castor Oil packs are easy to make, and a powerful aromatherapy tool.  Used together with essential oils, they can help relieve back, joint or trauma pain, promote uterine and ovarian health, support healthy digestion, stimulate the lymph system, help manage adrenal fatigue, support liver detoxification and much more.

Make sure to test any essential oils you wish to use on a small patch of skin before using them with Castor Oil Packs.  Avoid using any essential oil which produces irritation or an allergic response.

Castor Oil Pack DIY Instructions

Materials :

Good quality cold pressed castor oil

Essential oils of choice

Clean cotton or wool flannel ( 4 times the size of the area you wish to treat )

Bowl or Jar ( I use a wide-mouth quart mason jar with a lid, and store the flannel in it for the next use. )

Heating pad or hot water bottle

Towel to wrap the flannel pack or lie on, to stabilize the pack and catch any leakage.  Please note that castor oil will stain fabric.

Directions :

1) Prepare the area where you will be resting while the packs are on. I like to set up a diffuser with soothing essential oils, play soft music, have a good book handy and prepare a cup of tea. Turn on the heating pad to medium setting or have the hot water bottle ready. Have a blanket or fan handy in case you will need them. Use the restroom if needed before you start. Wear clothing that you don't mind getting stained and protect the surface that might see leakage.

2) Pour castor oil in bowl or jar.  Fold flannel to make 4 layers and soak in the oil.

3) Apply the essential oils directly to the skin on the area to be treated. Wring the flannel to be moist but not dripping wet, and place over the essential oil. Cover flannel with plastic wrap or bag. Use a towel to stabilize the pack or lie down on a towel if treating the back. Apply heat directly over the pack.

4) Relax during the treatment. Most treatments last 30 minutes to 2 hours.

5) After treatment is finished, remove the flannel and dispose or store for the next use. If not soiled, the same flannel can be used for up to a month with the same essential oil blend.  Wipe excess castor oil off the skin, or gently wash with a natural soap and rinse.

References :

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari and Pounds, Lorraine (2013), Integrative Aromatherapy Certificate Program, The Institute of Integrative Aromatherapy, The Woodlands, TX.

McGarey, William A. (1993), The Oil That Heals, A.R.E. Press, Virginia Beach, VA.