Girl Talk: Lets explore the traditional uses of OIL PACKS!
Castor oil and “oil packs” have been used by wild women for generations. The traditional uses were always passed down from lip to ear. I am inclined to believe that castor oil is one of the world’s oldest medicines. Castor oil is derived from castor beans and a true POWER HOUSE for improved health! A castor oil pack is a therapeutic practice where castor oil is applied to the body externally.
GRANNY QUIN said, “ girl oils packs been around since before I could remember.” She also said her BIG MAMA, used “castor oil” all the time. In fact, it’s said to have been used for eliminating constipation, uterine contractions, getting the baby out (induce labor), improving the appearance of scars, improving skin conditions, soothing menstrual cramps, drawing cyst out of the body, dispelling inflammation, hair growth, easing pain, ear infections, improving arthritis, improving circulation, postpartum support, eliminating stretch marks, improving digestive health and so much more! They are still being used till this day for the same conditions. My granny is what would be considered today as a “witch doctor”, I listen and take what she says to the heart! Older folk may seem Old fashioned and out of touch, but the things they say can be the absolute truth and of so much value.
MAKING AN OIL PACK
Ingredients and supplies needed
Castor oil
Unbleached muslin, wool or cotton flannel
A medium wood or glass bowl with lid.
Plastic sheeting or covering
Scissors are optional if you need to the cut cloth into smaller squares
Directions
Cut the muslin wool or cotton flannel to desired size.
Use at least three to four pieces of cloth to make a pack.
Place a piece of cloth into your bowl and pour castor oil into the container. Make sure you completely soak your cloth.
Use your hands or tongs to remove the cloth from the container.
Lay the soaked cloth flat on the plastic sheet to fully absorb the oil.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the other two or three pieces of cloth.
Add the oil-soaked cloths flat on top of the first one.
Once you’ve soaked and layered each cloth, your castor oil pack complete CONGRATULATIONS!
How to use your oil pack!
Be sure to gather a towel for any excess oils.
Place the castor oil pack on desired area. For example, you could place it over your womb for cramps, cysts, fibroids or other discomforts. For constipation, place over your stomach area. For liver or kidney stones place over the area of the functionals organs.
Now do not forget this step because it is important! Place a plastic sheet over the castor oil pack. This may help to keep the pack warm and secure on the area of the body you are wanting to address.
Leave the pack on for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Remove the pack and wipe the area clean with a warm, soapy, damp cloth.
The castor oil pack may be stored in the in the fridge and reused as needed. Make sure it stays covered and reuse it up to 15 times. You do not need to throw away the cloths after a use. Wash them with natural unscented cleansers and reuse them!
Side effects and safety
Some people may be allergic to castor oil. It may cause a skin rash or other reaction when used on the body. If you haven’t used a castor oil pack before, we encourage you to do a patch test!
Rub a few drops of castor oil into your skin, preferably the inner arm and leave on for 24 hours.
If you do not have any reaction, such as redness, itching, hives or swelling, a castor oil pack should be safe to use.
Avoid using castor oil packs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The effects of castor oil on a baby are unknown.
Avoid using castor oil packs on a recent injury or on open and irritated skin. For example, scratches or cuts that are in the process of healing.
Disclaimer: When used appropriately, castor oil is considered safe. However, it can lead to serious health issues if too much is ingested orally. We do not cure, treat or prevent disease. All information is shared for educational purposes only. Always consult with your physician.