What Is a Castor Oil Pack?

The uses for castor oil packs for both injuries and ailments are wide and varied.

The standard castor oil pack, recommended by Edgar Cayce, consists of Palma Christi castor oil soaked into several layers of white wool flannel (cotton flannel is also used with excellent results) and applied to the area in need of healing.

How to Make a Castor Oil Pack

1. Place flannel in an enamel casserole or the top of a double boiler. Add enough Palma Christi castor oil to make it well saturated but not dripping.

2. Warm the castor oil "pack"—gently so it's not too hot to touch.

3. Place the pack on the area to be treated and cover it with plastic food wrap (to prevent oil from migrating).

4. Wrap the area with an elastic bandage to keep the pack in place.

5. Place a heat source (Insta'Heat, hot water bottle, or heating pad) on top of the pack and maintain a constant warmth throughout the treatment.

How Long Is a Treatment?

For non-acute conditions: Apply the castor oil pack three times a week every other night for two weeks with the following week off. Repeat, if necessary, until symptoms subside.

For acute situations: Apply the castor oil pack for 2 hours daily (or overnight) for five nights. Take two nights off, then repeat the cycle for two weeks or until the condition is resolved.

In either case, individual response will differ depending on the symptoms that are being treated. Patients should consult with a health care provider.

Option: While the Palma Christi castor oil pack is working, quietly meditate to connect the mind and body healing energies. This assists the spiritual essence of the plant to assist in your healing.

For More Information

See my blog What Makes Castor Oil Therapeutic?