Castor

Christopher Hobbs:

“Castor oil is a well-known cleansing laxative and purgative. It is sometimes used to treat food poisoning. Externally it is used for warts, appendicitis, fibroid cysts, sore, abscesses, and neuralgia–as a castor oil pack.

CASTOR OIL PACK
Soak a flannel or other absorbent cloth that is folded for extra thickness in a good quality castor oil until saturated. Place the soaked cloth in a glass casserole dish and warm in the oven at about 350 deg. until nice and hot, but not scalding. Place over the affected area (pelvis, breast, etc.), cover with a plastic bag (to keep it from leaking oil), a small towel, and hot water bottle or heating pad to keep it warm. Keep in place for about 45 minutes. It is best to do a castor oil pack at least 5 days a week, usually in the evening, or other times it is convenient. The castor oil has active constituents called lectins that are absorbed into a local area and call forth and activate the immune system to help remove tumors, cysts, and promote healing. Edgar Cayce writes extensively about the healing powers of castor oil.

In Chinese medicine, castor oil is used for inflammation, to remove toxins, and to moisten the intestines.

Castor has a taste of BITTER, SWEET and a temperature of NEUTRAL.”

Historical Uses

Castor oil, derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in ancient Egypt, India, and China. Historically, it was utilized as a laxative, a remedy for skin conditions, a lubricant, and even a labor inducer.

Modern Clinical Uses

Today, herbalists and naturopaths primarily recommend castor oil for digestive health (as a laxative), skin issues (such as dermatitis and acne), and hair growth. It’s also applied topically for joint pain, inflammation, and promoting wound healing. The oil’s main component, ricinoleic acid, is thought to account for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Chemistry and Pharmacology

Castor oil is mostly composed of triglycerides of ricinoleic acid, which is unique to this oil and provides its strong laxative effects by activating EP3 prostanoid receptors in the intestines, increasing peristalsis. Castor oil also has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and emollient properties, contributing to its diverse therapeutic applications.

Clinical Trials

Limited clinical trials support the benefits of castor oil. Studies show its effectiveness in reducing constipation and, in some cases, improving wound healing. Research also suggests castor oil packs may alleviate menstrual pain and promote wound healing, though more comprehensive studies are needed.

Summary

Castor oil remains a versatile natural remedy with a mix of anecdotal and emerging clinical support, particularly for digestive health, skin conditions, and mild pain relief. Despite limited trials, it holds a valued place in herbal and naturopathic practices.

Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs.