Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It has a long history of use as a traditional remedy for a variety of conditions.
As more and more people seek alternatives to conventional medical treatments, interest in natural pain relief methods continues to grow.
This article will explore how to use castor oil for pain relief, including how it works and ways to apply it.
Understanding Castor Oil: Properties and Mechanisms
Castor oil has been used for centuries to address a variety of health concerns. But what makes it so special, and how might it help with pain relief?
Properties of Castor Oil
Castor oil is derived from the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis. It’s a non-drying oil, which means you can apply it repeatedly without it hardening or becoming sticky.
Here are some of the key components:
- Ricinoleic acid: This fatty acid makes up about 90% of castor oil and is thought to be responsible for many of its healing properties.
- Other beneficial components: Castor oil contains carotenoids, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to its overall therapeutic effect.
How Castor Oil Works to Relieve Pain
Research suggests that castor oil may relieve pain through several mechanisms:
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain. It seems to affect inflammatory mediators and substance P, a compound involved in pain signaling.
- Enhanced blood circulation: Applying castor oil to the skin may boost blood circulation. Increased circulation can reduce inflammation and promote pain relief.
- Other potential mechanisms: Emerging research suggests that castor oil may disrupt biofilm formation, which could be helpful for digestive and oral health. It might also affect prostaglandin EP3 receptors, which play a role in pain and inflammation.
How to use castor oil topically for pain relief
There are a few ways to use castor oil on your skin to ease aches and pains.
Joint and muscle discomfort
For sore muscles and achy joints, you can apply castor oil directly to the area, or consider exploring acupressure points for breathing, which may offer additional relief. Gently massage it in for a few minutes. You can also use a castor oil pack. To make a castor oil pack, soak a soft cloth in castor oil, apply it to your skin, and cover it with plastic wrap. Then, place a hot water bottle or heating pad on top for 30 to 60 minutes. You may have to do this every day before you notice a difference.
To help the oil absorb into your skin, warm it up before you apply it. Warm castor oil makes a great massage oil if you have knee pain, similar to how deep tissue massage can help alleviate neck pain.
How to make a castor oil compress
A compress is a great way to deliver the oil to the area that hurts. Here’s how to make one:
- Soak a clean cloth in castor oil. It should be damp but not dripping.
- Place the cloth over the area where you feel pain.
- Cover the cloth with plastic wrap. This protects your clothes and bedding.
- Place a hot water bottle or heating pad over the plastic wrap.
Using a compress helps the castor oil penetrate your skin, and the heat can also ease pain.
How to make castor oil even more effective: Mixtures and complementary therapies
Castor oil can be helpful on its own, but some research suggests you can get more relief by mixing it with other ingredients or using it alongside other therapies.
Castor oil mixtures
Some people like to mix castor oil with other ingredients known for their pain-relieving properties, such as:
- Turmeric. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Mix it with castor oil to soothe inflamed areas.
- Essential oils. Certain essential oils, like peppermint, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Castor oil and osteopathy
Castor oil packs work to support osteopathic treatments by easing pain and inflammation. Osteopaths often recommend castor oil packs to their patients.
Claire Forrester, an osteopath at The Form Practice, routinely recommends castor oil packs and has seen positive results in her patients.
Does castor oil really work for pain relief?
A lot of people swear by castor oil for pain relief, but what does the science say?
Clinical trials and studies
Some studies suggest that castor oil can reduce pain and inflammation around joints and muscles.
For example, a 2011 study looked at people with rheumatoid arthritis. The study participants used castor oil packs and reported less joint pain and stiffness. In fact, joint pain decreased by over 50%, and joint stiffness was reduced by about 48%.
A 2008 study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that castor oil packs helped people manage knee osteoarthritis pain.
In another study of 100 people with osteoarthritis, researchers compared castor oil capsules to diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Both groups experienced similar pain relief, but the castor oil group had fewer side effects.
Expert opinions on castor oil
Osteopaths often recommend castor oil packs to ease pain. Osteopath Claire Forrester, for example, says that castor oil packs are a simple and effective way to help ease pain and inflammation.
Safety first
Before you slather on the castor oil, do a little test to make sure you’re not allergic.
- Rub a small amount of castor oil on a small patch of skin.
- Wait and see if you have a reaction.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional before you start using castor oil for pain, especially if you have existing health conditions or allergies. They can help you use it safely and make sure it won’t interact with any medicines you’re taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does castor oil pull out inflammation?
While some proponents of castor oil claim it can “pull out” inflammation, the scientific evidence supporting this is limited. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in some studies. However, more research is needed to determine the extent of its effectiveness in reducing inflammation when applied topically. It may help with mild discomfort, but it’s not a substitute for medical treatment.
What does rubbing castor oil on your feet do?
Rubbing castor oil on your feet is a traditional remedy often used to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Some people believe it can help soothe tired feet, reduce swelling, and alleviate minor aches and pains. The moisturizing properties of castor oil can also help soften dry or cracked skin on the feet. While anecdotal evidence suggests benefits, scientific studies are lacking.
How long do you leave castor oil on your joints?
When using castor oil for joint pain, it’s typically applied topically and left on for at least an hour, or preferably overnight. You can soak a cloth in warm castor oil and apply it to the affected joint, covering it with plastic wrap and a warm towel to enhance absorption. Some practitioners recommend repeating this process daily for several days to assess its effectiveness. Always consult a healthcare professional before using castor oil as a treatment.
How do you use castor oil for pain?
To use castor oil for pain relief, you can apply it topically to the affected area. Warm the oil slightly, soak a clean cloth in it, and place the cloth on the painful area. Cover with plastic wrap and a warm towel to help the oil penetrate the skin. Leave it on for at least an hour or overnight. Alternatively, you can gently massage the oil into the skin. Remember that castor oil is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and you should consult with a healthcare professional for persistent or severe pain.
Closing Thoughts
Castor oil has some impressive anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, so it could be a useful tool for managing pain.
But it’s important to use it safely. Always do a patch test first to make sure you’re not allergic. And talk with a healthcare professional before using castor oil to treat any health condition.
Think of castor oil as one part of a bigger plan to improve your well-being, similar to incorporating relaxing products like Aveeno Stress Relief Lotion into your routine. Pair it with healthy eating and lifestyle changes to get the best results and feel your best.