Castor oil packs & navel pulling: Everything you need to know

Castor oil is having a moment – but does it live up to the buzz? What’s the deal with castor oil packs and navel pulling? Our naturopath spills the beans on castor oil (yes, it’s from a bean!). Let’s dive into castor oil uses, the research, traditional use and the best castor oils to pop on your wellness shelf.

Bestselling castor oil: Dolphin Clinic Castor Oil

• HealthPost’s top seller – a popular choice for good reason
• Cold-pressed, packaged in a glass bottle to preserve freshness

Navel pulling - Castor oil pack

Castor oil packs, or applying castor oil to the belly button, have gained attention online for liver detox, abdominal discomfort, and bowel health. While no research supports these claims, here are some key points to consider:

• Origin & tradition: This practice comes from Ayurvedic tradition, where oils are applied to the belly button for absorption - called the petochi intake method. Chinese Medicine (TCM) also embraces this method.
• Massage: Research shows that massage helps alleviate abdominal discomfort. So, if you do decide to give it a go – be sure to incorporate massage into the ritual.
• Ricinoleic acid: Studies show this compound (unique to castor oil) does have soothing properties. So, theoretically you may like to try it to support mild abdominal discomfort when combined with a gentle massage.
• Wellness benefits: As it’s a wellness ritual, it may offer psychological benefits like calmness and stress management, creating a sense of control and carving out time for self-care.

Note: If you have abdominal pain, please consult your healthcare professional before trying navel pulling.

So, while this practice could possibly support relaxation and comfort, the liver detox claim seems unlikely. My first choice for supporting liver health or detox pathways would be a formula that contains researched ingredients. Like this one:

Liver detox support: BioBalance Liver Cleanse & Detox

• Supports whole body detox & healthy digestion
• With 10 science-backed nutrients & herbal extracts
• Support for healthy bile flow & glutathione production

DIY castor oil pack & navel pulling method

• Lay on your back, use an old towel to protect surfaces from oil
• Apply 1-2 tablespoons of oil to a muslin cloth and apply to the navel (keep a muslin cloth dedicated for this use)
• Or pour a few drops of oil directly into your navel and cover
• Leave for 5-45 minutes – some people leave it on overnight
• Use the time as a relaxation ritual – create a calming atmosphere with soothing essential oils and music

Organic castor oil: Green Trading Organic Castor Oil

• BioGro certified organic, cold-pressed
• Packed in a glass bottle

Muslin cloth for castor oil pack: Black Chicken Remedies Muslin Face Cloth Pack

• Super lightweight & soft 100% cotton cloths
• Wash by hand or machine cycle

FAQs – Your castor oil questions answered

1. Is castor oil good for eyelashes and eyebrows?
   Ricinoleic acid and Vitamin E support healthy hair and skin follicles, making castor oil a natural alternative to synthetic lash and brow serums. Plus, it’s safe for use around the eyes.
2. Can castor oil help with acne or other skin conditions?
   Castor oil is antibacterial and soothes irritation, but since it’s an oil, it may not be the best option for acne-prone skin. You could try using it as a DIY face mask and remove thoroughly afterward.
3. Can I use castor oil for a DIY facial mask?
   Yes! Castor oil is soothing and moisturising, making it great as a DIY face mask. Apply 10 drops to clean skin, leave on for 10 minutes, then remove with a natural cleanser or muslin cloth.
4. How often should I use castor oil on my skin or hair?
   You can swap it in for your usual face masks or moisturisers as needed, especially if your skin is irritated or dry.
5. Is castor oil safe for sensitive skin?
   Yes, castor oil is gentle and natural, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Studies show that ricinoleic acid helps soothe and calm irritation.