Tulsa World: Castor oil is a warm, comfy alternative to pain medications

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Castor oil is a warm, comfy alternative to pain medications

By SUZY COHEN Dear Pharmacist
Published: 11/28/2009 2:23 AM
Last Modified: 11/28/2009 8:18 AM

Dear Pharmacist, I've had monthly cramps for years so I take lots of Motrin and Midol. My mom came over and put an old-fashioned castor oil pack on me. It worked like magic. Can I apply it regularly? What else are castor oil packs used for? — C.S. Gainesville, Fla.

Castor oil packs are a safe, natural alternative to relieve many aches and pains. I think it's great for monthly cramping or fibroid pain; many women confirm this comfy benefit, but ask your gynecologist because the heat will increase blood flow and may be inadvisable for you.

I frequently recommend castor oil packs because they're non-medicated, have no side effects, and the moist heat feels good instantly. Castor oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acid; it contains a strong anti-fungal, anti-microbial compound that's why it helps with certain skin problems (keratosis, ringworm).

People with ligament strains, muscle aches, headaches and backaches may reap benefits. It's used most frequently by people who suffer with abdominal discomfort such as constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, spleen or liver problems.

Castor oil is a vegetable oil that comes from the castor bean, which is actually a seed from the plant, India leads the global pack for production. As far back as 4000 BC, castor seeds were found in Egyptian tombs; the famous medical clairvoyant Edgar Cayce recommended it in his readings.

Naturopaths can't agree, but I feel that castor oil should only be applied to the skin, not taken internally. An ideal location to apply the pack is the right side of the abdomen over the gallbladder and liver, because this promotes bile flow, which relieves pain from digestive disorders. If you suffer chronic pancreatitis, a castor oil pack may feel good. Women who get Mittelschmerz (ovulation pain) enjoy a castor oil pack below the belly button.

Did you know?

Pumpkin seeds contain special oils and minerals which may improve symptoms of enlarged prostate (BPH). By SUZY COHEN Dear Pharmacist

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