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Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Castor Oil Packs for Arthritis

Osteoarthritis may improve from the anti-inflammatory nature of castor oil.

Castor oil packs aid in elimination and detoxification processes in the body, through some mechanism that is likely related to its anodyne and anti-inflammatory properties such as cytokine modulation.

INDICATIONS
Uterine fibroids, non-malignant ovarian cysts, headaches, liver disorders, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, intestinal disorders, gallbladder inflammation or stones, night time urinary frequency and inflamed joints

CONTRAINDICATIONS
Castor oil packs should be used with caution or avoided during pregnancy, bleeding disorders and active ulcers. Castor oil packs should not be used in cancer as heating treatments may help the cancer spread. Individuals with chemical sensitivity disorders may have an increase in symptoms after using the castor oil pack, especially at the beginning of treatment, as it aids (and stimulates) the process of elimination and detoxification. It may be best to shorten the length of time of the castor oil pack treatment initially and should be discussed with your physician.

SUPPLIES
• Flannel Cloth (cotton or wool, washed and dried, 20” to 40” x 24” to 48”)
• Plastic wrap (clear kitchen plastic wrap or plastic bag without printing)
• Glass dish (Pyrex or similar dish large enough to warm the flannel castor oil pack prior to use)
• Old bath towel
• Hot water bottle or hot gel pack
• Castor oil
• Large zip-lock bag

DIRECTIONS
1. Fold the washed and dried flannel cloth so that it is 2-3 layers thick and fits over most of your abdomen.
2. Soak the flannel cloth in castor oil. Strip or loosely wring out the excess oil. There will be excess oil for the first few applications, after that the castor oil pack should not drip excess oil.
3. Put the castor oil pack in a heat-safe glass dish and place in oven or in microwave to heat to a comfortable temperature.
4. Lay down in a comfortable position. You may want to place an old towel or plastic under you during the initial applications to avoid oil stains from getting on your bedding, upholstery or carpeting. Place the castor oil pack directly on your abdomen.
5. Cover the pack with a sheet of plastic, again to avoid staining.
6. Wrap an old towel around your abdomen to hold the castor oil pack in place, and secure. Place a hot water bottle or gel pack over the towel. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket.
7. Leave the castor oil pack on for 45-60 minutes.
8. It is fine to fall asleep with the castor oil pack on, as long as you are not using an electrical heating source.
9. When you are done, store the pack in a large zip-lock bag in the refrigerator. The pack can be used repeatedly, adding more castor oil as needed. The castor oil pack can be used for several months.

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DISCLAIMER:

This website is intended for educational purposes only. Read our full disclaimer. Always work with your physician for proper care and supervision. Never make any changes to your health care without first consulting with your physician. Have your physician check for drug interactions, and always be cautious when combining natural medicines and prescription drugs, especially those for arthritis.