Castor oil has many benefits, including easing cramping and pain associated with it, particularly menstrual cramping. When combined with heat, it becomes one of the best natural remedies for menstrual cramps.
While there are many ways to use castor oil for this purpose, castor oil packs tend to be the most convenient option. All you need to do is secure it on your lower abdomen and use a heating pack or a warm water bottle to apply heat to the area.
There are many pre-made castor oil packs, but why pay for them when you can go the DIY route? In this article, we will teach you how to make a DIY castor oil pack at home. We will also discuss the benefits of using castor oil so you can have realistic expectations on what to expect from using a DIY castor oil pack.
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a carrier oil made from the castor bean plant. It is typically extracted by cold-pressing, though some heat-pressed caster oils are also sold on the market, which we don’t recommend for DIY castor oil packs as they lack the higher amounts of ricinoleic acid found in cold-pressed castor oil prized for its anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition to using it in packs, castor oil is a common ingredient in cosmetics, including skin and hair care products. It also has industrial applications, so it is a widely used and researched natural product.
What Benefits Do DIY Castor Oil Pack Have
First and foremost, DIY castor packs are much more affordable than pre-made castor oil packs. Using household items and a small bottle of castor oil, you will have a castor oil pack that’s reusable for up to 20-25 times, as long as it is stored properly.
When it comes to the real benefits of castor oil packs, whether DIY or pre-made, it is typically used for reducing pain associated with menstrual cramps. Nonetheless, it can be used in any area of the body where its benefits can be enjoyed.
The ricinoleic acid, as mentioned above, has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the area when applied topically. It also contributes to improving blood circulation, particularly when combined with heat, which also gives a relaxing feeling.
How to Make a DIY Castor Oil Pack?
Now that you know how castor oil packs can help you, here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can make a DIY castor oil pack at home.
Items List
To make a DIY castor oil pack at home, you will need the following items:
- Cold-pressed castor oil
- Cotton cloth
- Plastic wrap
- A warm water bottle
Once you gather these items, which are all items that you likely have at home, you can get started on making your castor oil pack.
Instructions
Below are instructions for making a DIY castor oil pack at home.
- Cut the cotton cloth in an appropriate size. If making the castor oil pack for menstrual cramps, cut it about the size of your lower abdomen, for example.
- Pour about two tablespoons of cold-pressed castor oil on the cloth and let it soak. It should be fully soaked in castor oil, but nothing should drip when you move it around.
- Place it in the area and cover it with plastic wrap. When covering the castor oil-soaked cloth, don’t do it too tightly. Otherwise, you will reduce blood circulation in the area, which will prevent the castor oil from benefiting you.
- Hold the warm water bottle on top or keep it on the area by positioning your body comfortably, like lying down if you’re using the castor oil pack on your abdomen.
Making and using a DIY castor oil pack is as simple as that – after you’re done, wash the area to remove any castor oil residue and store the cloth in an airtight container in the fridge for reuse. Most DIY castor oil packs are reusable for up to 25 times or after developing a bad odor or not absorbing castor oil.
Are There Any Risks of Using DIY Castor Oil Packs?
Generally, there’s no risk of using DIY castor oil packs or castor oil in general.
However, it is best to do a patch test with a small amount of cold-pressed castor oil for your DIY pack to see how your body reacts. If you notice any itching, rashes, or redness in the area, you might be having an allergic reaction. Also, make sure not to use a water bottle (or a heating pad) that’s too hot that can cause burns.
As long as you use an appropriate amount of castor oil for your pack, which is about two tablespoons, and follow the above, you won’t need to worry about any potential risks with DIY castor oil packs.
