Castor Oil Packs: A Time-Tested Remedy for Liver Health, Glowing Skin, and Seasonal Wellness
Castor Oil Packs: A Healing Tradition for the Liver and Skin
As we enter the spring season and the allergy season ramps up, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible healing power of natural remedies. One of my favorites—and something I’ve seen make a real difference in my own health journey—is the use of castor oil packs. For those who are unfamiliar, castor oil packs are an easy-to-use and soothing therapy with a deep history in holistic health. Let me share how these simple, effective packs work, how I personally benefited from them, and why they’re a great choice for improving skin health while supporting liver function.
What Are Castor Oil Packs?
Castor oil packs are exactly what they sound like: a piece of fabric (typically cotton flannel) soaked in castor oil and placed on a specific area of the body, usually over the liver. The oil has been used for centuries—dating all the way back to ancient Egypt—and it’s known for its healing properties, particularly when used topically. The idea is that the oil is absorbed into the skin and promotes detoxification, healing, and circulation. Over the liver, this practice is particularly beneficial because the liver is the body’s main organ for detoxification.
How Long Have Castor Oil Packs Been Used?
Castor oil has a long history as a healing agent, going back thousands of years. It was used in ancient Egyptian medicine for a variety of purposes, including skin health and digestion. In the 1920s, Dr. William McGarey, a prominent physician in holistic medicine, started recommending castor oil packs for liver detoxification and healing. Since then, the practice has only grown in popularity, especially in the holistic health community.
The Skin Benefits of Castor Oil Packs Over the LiverYou might be wondering, how does something over the liver benefit your skin?
Well, when you apply a castor oil pack to the liver, it helps support your body’s detox pathways. The liver plays a critical role in filtering out toxins from the bloodstream, and when it’s supported, it can improve your overall skin health. Many skin issues, like acne, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions, are connected to liver imbalances or sluggish detox processes. By encouraging the liver to work more efficiently, castor oil packs help your skin look clearer and more vibrant. Plus, castor oil itself has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, making it fantastic for nourishing the skin.
How I Benefited from Castor Oil Packs in My Health Journey
When I first started exploring holistic health practices in my personal journey to put my autoimmune conditions and other health imbalances into remission, I came across castor oil packs from my health practitioner. My liver had been under a lot of strain, and I noticed that my skin was also showing signs of stress. After regularly using castor oil packs (and many other modalities), I experienced a remarkable improvement in my skin—clearer, more even-toned, and just overall healthier-looking. Additionally, the packs helped reduce the bloating, fatigue, and general discomfort I had been experiencing as part of my autoimmune flare-ups.
How to Use Castor Oil Packs: Step-by-Step
Using castor oil packs is simple and easy, but a little prep will ensure the best results.
What you’ll need:
Castor oil (organic, cold-pressed is best)
The Queen of Thrones castor oil pack (flannel cloth) or any flannel cloth
Heating pad
A t-shirt or clothing you don’t mind getting oil on
Instructions:
Soak the cloth: Take your Queen of Thrones castor oil pack (flannel cloth) and saturate it with castor oil. You want it to be soaked but not dripping.
Place the pack: Lay the oil-soaked cloth over your liver area, just under your ribcage on the right side.
Apply heat: Place a heating pad over the pack. The heat helps the oil penetrate deeper into your skin and enhances the detoxification process.
Relax: Leave the pack on for about 30 minutes to an hour. You can relax, read, or meditate during this time. -You can also leave this on overnight. ( you can do this 2-3 times a week or as needed)
Protect your clothing: Make sure you’re wearing a t-shirt or something you don’t mind getting oil on, as the pack can sometimes leave residue on your clothes.
Clean up: After the time is up, simply clean your skin with warm water and a gentle cleanser. Store the cloth in a plastic bag for reuse—there’s no need to wash it unless necessary, as the oil remains effective with multiple uses.
Castor Oil Packs for Seasonal Allergies
With spring on the horizon, you might also find that castor oil packs are helpful for managing seasonal allergies. The liver plays a huge role in how your body responds to allergens, as it filters out excess histamines and toxins that trigger allergic reactions. Using castor oil packs regularly can help your liver function optimally and reduce the severity of allergic reactions, like congestion, sneezing, and skin irritation.
Resources & Further Reading
If you’re interested in learning more about castor oil packs and their health benefits, there are so many resources out there! Here are a few!
The Queen of Thrones website – This company offers high-quality castor oil packs, and I love their products for their ease of use and sustainability. (You can purchase your own pack here)!
Dr. William McGarey’s book "The Healing Power of Castor Oil” – Dr. McGarey’s work remains foundational for understanding the many benefits of castor oil.
Castor Oil Packs: Benefits and How to Use | Dr. Berg
By adding castor oil packs to your routine, especially as we head into spring, you can support your liver’s detoxification processes and potentially improve your skin, energy levels, and even help with seasonal allergies. I personally found these packs incredibly helpful in my health journey, and I’m excited for you to experience their benefits as well!
