castor oil packets

The first time I used a castor oil pack was on my right ankle in 1995 (through 2000 after my second surgery) - I'd torn all the ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, soft tissue in the foot and ankle.

While many of the "alternatives" I tried didn't work for me, the packs seemed to help. Fortunately, I now enjoy the return of more than the 60% functioning the doctors expected.

Regular use of castor oil packs was followed by a lull in use...honestly, I fairly forgot about them until I took a few natural health science courses and dappled with them again as part of the education process.

But, they didn't become a staple in my toolbox until a few years back when I was having issues with leaky gut.

It was during the detox process that my nutritionist suggested using castor oil packs across my abdomen to support the stomach, liver and intestines. Once again, my system responded positively to the packs!

It should be no surprise to those who study natural health that the ancient Egyptians were using castor oil medicinally for centuries prior to recording it in their medical papyrus in 1550 BCE.

While castor oil itself has been used in soaps, shampoos (and is even said to encourage hair-growth), for me it was the research explaining its anti-inflammatory properties that felt the most valuable.

Renowned author/physician Dr. Christiane Northrup actually suggests them for a variety of uses, including severe monthly cramps and related body changes we experience during our cycle, as well as for overall immune system health.

Another author, Carolyn DeMarco, notes that they can be very supportive for those living with enlarged and twisted veins; in supporting the health of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys; as well as enhancing the body's natural response to constipation, sciatica and arthritis.

The key factor with castor oil is it's ability to help pull toxins out of the body while providing our cells with an immunity boost!

On top of all the benefits, they're actually a fairly easy and inexpensive way to support health of body, mind and spirit:

• Clean cotton or wool cloth (old towel, shirt - avoid synthetic materials)
• Bottle of castor oil (readily available at the drug store, big box store or online)
• Essential oils (optional)
• Plastic wrap or bag
• Towel (older one)
• Hot water bottle or heating pad
  

Get comfy because you're going to want to leave this pack on for about 20-30 minutes and I suggest wearing old garments as larger amounts of the oil are used and difficult to get out of your clothes.

To start, pour enough oil on the cloth to saturate it, but not so much that it's oozing or dripping.

Next, place any essential oils on the same cloth. I've used Release (1 drop only please - it's very potent) and Lavender as they both support the natural detoxification of body, mind and spirit.

Once you have your oils on the cloth, lay the cloth across your abdomen (ankle, wrist, knee, etc.) and cover with plastic wrap or an old plastic bag. This helps "trap" the heat which aids in the absorption and detox process.

Now, cover the plastic with a towel (just in case you do ooze a bit) and top the stack with your heating pad or hot water bottle.

Set your timer for 20 minutes and relax. Sip some water to support your detox and enjoy. After 20-30 minutes, reverse the stacking process and give yourself a mini massage in that area...you're done!

For me, it's a wonderful way to unwind with a book or music before bed.

Some suggestions:

• If your packing your foot, ankle, hand or wrist - consider layering everything up and then instead of putting the plastic bag ON your foot, place your foot (hand) IN the plastic bag and  cover with a towel before applying heat
  
• Save the pack for reuse (store in a plastic bag or glass jar and place in a cooler area)
  
• Use regularly (except during menses) - up to 3 times a week

Feel free to hit the google bar to learn more about the benefits of castor oil packs and how to maximize their use as you walk along the nourished path!

If you have questions or comments, please let me know: AlongNourishedPath@Gmail.com.

Image: google

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