Long before it became a TikTok trend or made its way into wellness routines, castor oil held a valued spot in ancient medicine cabinets, from the pharaohs of Egypt to Ayurvedic practitioners in India. Today, it's getting a fresh spotlight, particularly in the form of castor oil packs, and modern science is finally catching up to what traditional wisdom has long embraced. So, what makes this thick, amber oil from the Ricinus communis plant so captivating? And why are people wrapping themselves in cloth soaked in it?
What Exactly Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant and is composed primarily of ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid believed to be responsible for many of its notable properties. It’s been used for centuries across cultures, but now it’s being revisited through a more scientific lens - and it’s turning heads not just for beauty hacks but also for its topical versatility.1,2
Castor Oil Packs: A Trend Worth Watching
A castor oil pack involves soaking a piece of cotton or flannel in castor oil, applying it to the skin (typically the abdomen), covering it with a barrier like plastic or wool, and adding heat for enhanced absorption. The goal isn’t to deliver a miracle cure, but to create a soothing ritual that supports the body’s natural processes.3
TikTok may have popularised the trend, but its roots run deep. The late Edgar Cayce, a 20th-century figure known as the “father of holistic medicine,” often recommended castor oil packs for a wide range of wellness goals. While modern research is still emerging, preliminary studies suggest there might be more than placebo at play.4,5
What Does the Research Say?
While more large-scale clinical trials are needed, the existing literature and anecdotal evidence are intriguing:
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Skin-penetrating potential: Ricinoleic acid appears to penetrate the skin barrier effectively, possibly helping with local circulation and lymphatic flow.2,5
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Moisturising and protective: Studies highlight castor oil’s emollient properties, making it a valuable ingredient for dry or irritated skin.1
- Bioactive compounds: It contains substances with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, though most evidence so far comes from in vitro or animal models.6,7
Kennedy and Keaton in 2012 reviewed the evidence for topical castor oil and pointed to its potential in supporting the body’s natural processes through its unique chemistry.2
Why Are People Using Castor Oil Packs?
There’s no single reason why people use castor oil packs, many have incorporated them into their self-care routines for a variety of personal goals. Common use cases include promoting abdominal comfort, enhancing relaxation rituals, and adding a gentle element of topical care to night-time routines. And let’s be honest: there’s something soothing about warming up a soft, oil-soaked cloth and lying down for 45 minutes. Whether the effects come from the placebo effect, the heat, or the oil itself, many users report feeling better afterward, and that sense of comfort can be meaningful in its own right.3,8
How to Use Castor Oil Packs Safely
- Choose cold-pressed, hexane-free oil – this ensures purity.
- Use clean cotton or wool flannel – reusable but should be washed or replaced regularly.
- Apply to clean, dry skin – avoid broken or irritated areas.
- Add warmth – a heating pad or hot water bottle over the pack enhances absorption.
- Limit to 30-60 minutes – no need to overdo it.
- Avoid during pregnancy – just to be cautious, especially over the abdomen.3,6
The Bottom Line
Castor oil isn’t just another natural remedy, it’s a bridge between time-honoured traditions and modern curiosity. Whether you're exploring it for its skin-soothing qualities or just looking to build a relaxing night-time ritual, castor oil packs offer a low-risk, high-comfort experience that speaks to our deeper need for slowing down and tuning in.
And while we’re still waiting on more definitive research, the growing interest suggests one thing clearly: castor oil is having a well-deserved moment.
So next time you’re scrolling through wellness tips or prepping for a Sunday reset, consider giving this old-school remedy a try. Your ancestors might just approve.
