Castor Oil Packs
Castor Oil Packs for Fertility
Castor oil is from the seed of the ricinus communis plant. Castor oil is know for its detoxing and anti-inflammatory effect on the body. A castor oil soaked cloth applied over the the uterus using heat, a method know as a castor oil pack, helps to increase uterine circulation, decrease inflammation of the uterus, calm endometriosis and fibroids, resolve scar tissue, and decrease pain.
How to Apply a Castor Oil Pack
You’ll need a good quality castor oil, a natural flannel cloth, and a hot water bottle or heating pad. Cut the flannel cloth to fit over your lower abdomen to cover the area between your navel and pubic bone. You can use 2-3 layers of cloth for a more substantial application of castor oil. Soak the cloth in castor oil and apply it over your abdomen. Apply a hot water bottle or heating pad over the castor oil and allow it to do its magic for 30-60 minutes. Some people like to put some type of plastic wrap between the cloth and the hot water bottle/heating pad. Skip this if you are worried about exposure to plastics. You can save the castor oil soaked cloth in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Just add an additional 2 tablespoons of castor oil during your next application.
You can apply castor oil packs any time during the follicular phase of your cycle if you are trying to conceive or anytime throughout your entire cycle if you are confident you are not pregnant. Do not use castor oil packs if you are pregnant.
Keep in mind castor oil does not wash out easily. It’s best to wear old clothes and lie on an old towel or sheet.