Castor oil packs are a traditional remedy that involves applying castor oil externally to a specific area of your body. The treatment may help relieve endometriosis symptoms by boosting circulation, alleviating pain, and reducing inflammation.

While there isn’t strong scientific evidence directly linking castor oil packs to relieving endometriosis symptoms, plenty of anecdotal evidence suggests the remedy is beneficial.

Many people report a reduction in pain, decreased inflammation, and an overall improvement in their well-being after using this home remedy.

Castor oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce cramping, pelvic discomfort, and low back pain.

It’s also rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that can penetrate the skin deeply, helping to soften masses and blockages while increasing blood flow. This action may help your body flush out obstructions and adhesions.

Using castor oil packs provides an opportunity to relax and unwind, potentially alleviating stress, depression, and anxiety. The remedy may have a calming effect on your central nervous system, promoting relaxation.

Castor oil packs are inexpensive and relatively simple to do on your own.

To make a castor oil pack, you’ll need:

  • castor oil
  • plastic wrap
  • a towel
  • four rectangular pieces of flannel or cotton fabric
  • a hot water bottle or heating pad
  • a bowl or container

To prepare the pack:

  1. Pour castor oil into your container.
  2. Immerse each fabric piece in the oil until fully saturated.
  3. Layer each fabric piece on the plastic wrap.

Start by preparing a comfortable space. Since spills and stains are possible, consider lying on an older bedsheet or a plastic sheet.

Use a pillow under your head and another under your knees. You can also cover yourself with a blanket.

To use the pack:

  1. Once you’re lying down, place the pack on your lower abdomen.
  2. Cover the fabric with plastic wrap.
  3. Place the hot water bottle or heating pad on top.
  4. Leave the pack in place for 60 minutes.

You can meditate, practice a form of yoga that involves lying down and inducing a state between waking and sleeping for deep relaxation (yoga nidra), or do guided imagery during this time. Wearing an eye mask or weighted eye pillow may help focus your attention inward.

Afterward, gently massage any remaining castor oil into your skin.

You can store the pack in an airtight container in your refrigerator for future applications. It’s possible to reuse the pack up to 30 times. Add more oil to the fabric each time you use it.

Castor oil may cause allergies and irritation. To minimize this risk, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test on a small area before using a castor oil pack on a larger region.

Using castor oil packs is generally safe for most people. Consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional before use if you:

  • are pregnant
  • are breastfeeding
  • are menstruating
  • have any internal bleeding
  • have an intrauterine device
  • have open wounds or infections in your abdominal area

It’s important to note that while castor oil packs may relieve some endometriosis symptoms like pain and inflammation, they do not replace medical treatment.

If you have endometriosis, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

If you already have an endometriosis treatment plan with your doctor or healthcare professional, talk with them before using castor oil packs.

If you develop severe skin irritation, such as a rash, itching, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop using castor oil packs immediately and consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment.