Castor Oil Packs

Castor oil packs are a traditional way of applying castor oil: a cloth soaked in the oil, laid on the skin and covered for a while.

What you need for castor oil packs

• Castor oil, about 2 to 3 tablespoons per use
• A piece of undyed cotton or wool flannel, folded to the size you want
• A sheet of plastic wrap or a reusable pack cover
• An old towel
• Optional: a warm (not hot) hot water bottle

How to make a castor oil pack

1. Lay an old towel down where you will rest. Castor oil stains.
2. Pour castor oil onto the flannel until it is soaked but not dripping.
3. Place the flannel on clean, unbroken skin.
4. Cover it with plastic wrap, then the towel.
5. If you like, place a warm hot water bottle on top. Never use anything hot enough to burn.
6. Rest for 30 to 60 minutes.
7. Remove the pack and wipe the oil away with a warm, damp cloth.

Safety

• For external use only. Do not swallow.
• Patch test on a small area first, and stop using it if irritation occurs.
• Do not use on broken skin, and keep it out of your eyes.
• If you are pregnant, check with your doctor or midwife before using castor oil.
• Keep out of reach of children. Store below 25°C.

Questions

Which castor oil to use

A pack uses a fair amount of oil, so the 500 ml bottle is the better value at about $7.70 per 100 ml, or $6.15 in a 4 pack.