If you're tired of battling painful cramps every month during your period, you're not alone.
Many women seek natural remedies to ease the discomfort, and one such remedy that's been gaining popularity is the use of castor oil packs.
Castor oil packs have been used for centuries for various ailments, and they can be a game-changer for achieving pain-free periods. In this blog, I'll guide you through the process of using castor oil packs to help alleviate menstrual pain and promote overall well-being.
You can use Castor Oil packs for a variety of gynecological issues including:
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids
- Menstrual cramps
- Infertility
- Endometriosis/Adenomyosis
What Are Castor Oil Packs?
Castor oil packs are simple yet effective natural remedies that involve applying a cloth soaked in castor oil to the skin. Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis), has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. When used on the lower abdomen, it can help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation in the pelvic area and reduce menstrual cramps.
Important info before using castor oil
To begin with, it's advisable to conduct a small skin patch test using castor oil for 24 hours as a precautionary measure. This test helps identify any potential adverse reactions. If you observe any skin discoloration, discomfort, or the development of a rash during this period, it's an indication that castor oil may not be suitable for your skin.
When you start using the castor oil packs, pay close attention to your comfort levels. If you ever experience discomfort while the pack is on, don't hesitate to remove it. Keep in mind that the duration for which you can comfortably wear the pack may vary from person to person. For those who require extensive detoxification or have heightened sensitivity, it might take some time to build up to wearing the pack for an hour. Initially, you may only be comfortable wearing it for 15 minutes, while others may find an hour comfortable. Listen to your body and let it guide you.
How to make a castor oil pack:
Materials You'll Need:
- Pure castor oil - good quality, organic & cold pressed is essential (readily available at natural food stores or online)
- 50 cm piece of wool, cotton or flannel - preferably undyed & organic (large enough to cover your lower abdomen) OR buy a castor oil pack like this one to make it easy for you
- 2 x Old bath towels (castor oil stains, so don’t use anything good!)
- Hot water bottle (or heated rice pack, or heating pad will do, but hot water bottles provide the best heat)
- Wear clothing you don’t mind getting oily
- A towel OR piece of plastic wrap (large enough to cover the castor oil pack)
How to Make and Use a Castor Oil Pack:
Prepare the Castor Oil Pack:
- Fold the fabric into a three-layered square, making it large enough to cover your lower abdomen.
- In a glass container, pour enough castor oil to saturate the fabric, but not so much that it's dripping.
- Fold the fabric into a square, soak it in the castor oil, and then unfold it to ensure it's evenly saturated.
Apply the Pack:
- Lie down on your back, on a towel in a comfortable and quiet space.
- Place the castor oil-soaked fabric on your lower abdomen, or over your liver area under your rib cage.
- Cover the fabric with another towel OR piece of plastic wrap or a plastic bag to prevent the oil from leaking.
- Place the hot water bottle or heating pad on top of the pack.
Relax and Soothe:
- Set a timer for 30-60 minutes.
- Use this time to relax, meditate, or read a book to enhance the benefits.
- You may feel a gentle warmth and a sense of relaxation during this time.
Remove and Clean:
- After the designated time, carefully remove the pack.
- Wipe off excess oil with a small towel or washcloth.
- Roll up your fabric & store in a glass sealed container in the fridge for future use. You can reuse multiple times. Just remember to take it out of the fridge an hour or so before you use it next. Don’t put a cold pack on your tummy!
- You may need to wipe the excess castor oil off using some bi carb & warm water, or pop on a very old t-shirt that you don’t mind getting stained.
Repeat Regularly:
- For best results, use castor oil packs 2-3 times a week
WHEN?
- Do NOT use during your period
- Do NOT use if you are pregnant
- Do NOT use during an acute illness
- Use from the time your period ends until a few days before it begins
- For severe pain use daily for 30-60 days, except during menstruation
- For moderate pain use every other day for 30-60 days, except during menstruation
- For mild pain use 2-3 times a week for 30 days, except during menstruation
- You can reduce the frequency of packs once symptoms begin to improve and then just use once or twice a month to maintain the results.
Benefits of Castor Oil Packs for Period Pain:
- Castor oil packs help relax the pelvic muscles, reducing cramps and pain.
- They improve blood circulation in the pelvic area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
- Castor oil's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the severity of PMS symptoms.
- They provide a calming and soothing experience, reducing stress associated with menstruation.
- Using castor oil packs for pain-free periods is a natural and holistic approach that many women have found to be effective.
- With regular use, you can experience reduced menstrual pain, improved overall well-being, and a more comfortable period. Remember that while castor oil packs are generally safe, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before adding them to your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
For a step by step approach to eliminating period pain watch my Painless Periods Bootcamp here.
If you want more personalised strategies to relieve period pain naturally you can apply to work with me 1:1 for Nutrition & Hormone Coaching here.
