Relieve Period Pain with a
Castor Oil Pack
A castor oil pack is a naturopathic and traditional Chinese medicine practice that can help soothe Period Pain. Castor oil comes from the castor seed and its use dates back to Egyptian times. It is extremely high in ricinoleic acid, which is thought to be responsible for its health promoting abilities by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. It’s best to do this in the weeks before your period begins, once a day would be optimal. Don’t do it during your period.
All you need to do is soak some fabric in castor oil, find a comfortable place to lay down, place the castor oil soaked fabric over your uterus and add heat. You stay there for 45 minutes to an hour, so the heat plus castor oil can work their magic to soothe your pain.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Castor oil - choose organic cold pressed and hexane free
A medium sized container with lid - you’ll use this to store the pack for future use
A piece of unbleached flannel or cotton
Cling wrap or a plastic bag
Hot water bottle or heat pack
Bath towel
Here’s what you do:
Soak the fabric in castor oil, using the container to catch any excess. The fabric should be well soaked and almost dripping.
Prepare your space by placing a towel on the floor - I like to put a pillow under my knees and head, it’s super relaxing!
Prepare your hot water bottle or heat pack.
Then lay down on your towel, fold the fabric and place it over your uterus.
Place the plastic bag or cling wrap over the fabric.
Place the water bottle or heat pack on top of the plastic.
Lay here for 45-60 minutes - take this time to really relax; listen to a podcast, some binaural beats or a guided meditation.
For a deeper experience close your eyes and tune into the pain you’re feeling. Feel the pain, notice where it is in your body, notice exactly how it feels. Is it sharp? Is it throbbing? Breath into where you feel the pain. Take deep slow breaths and notice when the pain starts to dissipate. If you feel inclined, ask the pain what it’s trying to tell you and journal about your experience after.
And a warning! Castor oil packs are a bit messy and can stain, so use an old towel, wear old clothes and move slowly.
The pack can be stored in the fridge and re-used up to 30 times.
*Caveat: some people are allergic to castor oil. Before you commit to the pack, do a patch test on your arm and leave it for 24 hours. If you develop a reaction unfortunately that indicates you’re allergic to castor oil and should not continue with the castor oil pack.
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