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How Castor Oil Packs Support the Liver, Lymph, and Nervous System

ByAmity Hook-Sopko

Sometimes, the most powerful wellness tools are the simplest. In the case of castor oil packs, this age-old practice offers a practical example of how we can support the body’s natural rhythms.

castor oil packs for liver detox

Used in ancient healing traditions, castor oil packs offer gentle, restorative support for the liver, lymphatic system, digestive function, hormones, and more.

What Is a Castor Oil Pack?

A castor oil pack is a piece of cloth soaked in organic castor oil, placed over the abdomen (or other target area), and held in place with gentle heat. When applied to the skin, castor oil penetrates deeply to support circulation, lymph flow, and organ function.

While castor oil itself is derived from the seed of the Ricinus communis plant and is high in a unique fatty acid called ricinoleic acid, the real magic happens when the oil and the pack are used together. The combination of touch, warmth, and absorption makes it far more than just another topical remedy.

Why Use a Castor Oil Pack?

Naturopathic doctor and castor oil researcher Dr. Marisol Teijeiro, ND explains that castor oil packs don’t just affect the surface—they create a full-body ripple effect. When placed over the abdomen, the pack stimulates pressure receptors in the skin that communicate with the vagus nerve, a key player in regulating digestion, mood, and stress.

“Every time you put on a castor oil pack, it’s like hitting the escape button on a computer,” she says. “You shift into a relaxed state, so you sleep better, eliminate better, and stress less.”

Dr. Marisol also points out that castor oil packs stimulate oxytocin, the “love and connection” hormone that helps counteract chronic stress hormones like cortisol. This is especially important for women, whose nervous systems are often wired for vigilance and protection.

Liver & Detox Support

  • Encourages lymphatic drainage and improved liver function
  • Aids in the removal of toxins and supports healthy bile flow
  • Helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress

Digestive & Hormonal Balance

  • Supports regular bowel movements and eases bloating
  • Helps relieve PMS and menstrual discomfort
  • Assists in balancing hormones by improving liver metabolism and detox pathways

Immune & Nervous System Regulation

  • Calms the nervous system and promotes parasympathetic rest-and-digest
  • Supports oxytocin production – a hormone that buffers stress and promotes emotional safety
  • Enhances immune function through improved circulation and lymphatic flow

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack

This practice can be as simple or supported as you like. You can use a ready-made castor oil pack set or create your own with a few household items.

You’ll Need:

  • Organic, hexane-free castor oil (ideally buy castor oil in a glass bottle to eliminate plastic leaching)
  • Unbleached cotton or wool flannel
  • A hot water bottle or heating pad
  • A glass container with lid or Mason jar (for storing the soaked cloth)
  • An old towel or sheet to protect surfaces (castor oil stains!)
  • Optional: Essential oils for added support

Essential Oils for Added Benefit:

  • Liver support: JuvaFlex™, Helichrysum, Geranium
  • Hormone/emotional balance: Lavender, Frankincense, Stress Away™
  • Digestive relief: Peppermint, DiGize™

Mix 1–2 drops into the oil before soaking the cloth.

Instructions for Applying a Castor Oil Pack

  1. Soak the cloth: Fold the flannel into 2–3 layers and saturate it with castor oil (not dripping)
  2. Apply to abdomen: Place over the right side of your upper abdomen
  3. Add heat: Cover with a towel and apply gentle heat
  4. Relax: Lie down, elevate your feet if desired, and rest for 60–90 minutes or overnight
  5. Clean up: After removing, wipe the skin with baking soda and water or natural soap
  6. Store: Seal the oil-soaked cloth in a glass jar in the fridge for future use (up to 30 times)

Castor Oil Pack Timing and Frequency

  • Start with 60–90 minutes, 3–5 times per week.
  • Once your body is accustomed, consider wearing the pack overnight for deeper benefits.
  • You can also use the pack while sleeping, gentle walking, sitting in a sauna, or doing restorative yoga.

Note: It’s safe to use during your menstrual cycle, but avoid starting your very first pack during your period.

What Does the Science Say?

While traditional use is the strongest source of support for castor oil packs, a few small studies offer preliminary insight:

  • A 1999 study found that castor oil packs increased T-11 lymphocytes (immune cells) for up to 7 hours post-treatment.
  • A 2011 study in elderly patients found that while castor oil packs didn’t change bowel movement frequency, they did improve stool consistency, straining, and elimination comfort.
  • Ricinoleic acid, the key compound in castor oil, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and immune-modulating properties in other topical uses.

Where to Buy Castor Oil Pack Supplies

You only need a few supplies to get started. A chiropractor friend gave me an organic cotton flannel and I ordered hexane free castor oil online. There are also castor oil kits that include the flannel and a mess-proof wrap-around pack.

You probably already have a heating pad, baking soda, and soap on hand.

More Natural Remedies

If you’re a fan of DIY and home remedies, you might enjoy these other articles:

DIY Elderberry Syrup
Homemade Herbal Vapor Rub
DIY First Aid Ointment
How to Make a Natural First Aid Kit
DIY Iron Syrup
Herbal Digestive Teas for Gut Health

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