Castor Oil Packs 101: A Simple Guide to Liver, Digestion & Hormone Support

You’ve probably seen castor oil packs pop up online – and there’s a reason for that! This ancient remedy has been used in traditional healing practices for liver support, improved digestion, hormone balance, and easing inflammation. In both my personal experience and my clinical experience as a Functional Nutrition Counselor, castor oil packs can be a powerful supplemental tool when used in conjunction with root-cause work (nutrition, stress regulation, sleep, movement, and gut health).

Why Use a Castor Oil Pack?

Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly reported benefits – and how they might fit into your holistic health routine:

1. Supports Liver & Detox Pathways

Your liver is the body's main hub for processing toxins, excess hormones (like estrogen), and metabolic waste. In traditional and functional medicine practices, placing a castor oil pack over the liver area (upper right abdomen) is believed to encourage circulation and lymphatic movement in that region – helping support detox pathways that may feel sluggish due to stress, poor sleep, or hormonal imbalance.

2. Enhances Lymphatic Flow

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a “pump” – and anything that encourages movement, warmth, and circulation (like a castor pack) may help support lymphatic drainage, helping reduce puffiness and encourage waste removal.

3. May Improve Digestion & Relieve Constipation

Castor oil is well recognized for stimulating digestion when taken orally. As a pack, the warmth and relaxation often ease bloating and discomfort and can kickstart going to the bathroom (which is especially helpful if you've been feeling backed up)!

4. Hormone Balance Support

Because the liver metabolizes hormones like estrogen and cortisol, supporting liver blood flow and lymphatic drainage can help menstruating individuals notice improved period comfort, mood stability, PMS relief, and cycle timing over time.

5. Anti-Inflammatory & Relaxation Effects

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, a compound with documented anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This soothing effect, combined with warmth and rest, often feels nurturing and relaxing for the nervous system.

How to Do a Castor Oil Pack (Step-by-Step)

What You’ll Need

You have two options: DIY or – my favorite – a ready-to-go castor oil pack kit.

Option 1: DIY Castor Oil Pack

• High-quality, organic, cold-pressed castor oil

• A piece of cotton or flannel cloth (large enough to cover your liver area)

• Plastic wrap, beeswax wrap, or an old towel

• An old, oversized t-shirt you don't carea bout ruining (fair warning: castor oil does stain)

• A heating pad or hot water bottle (optional but feels great)

• A towel or sheet to protect furniture from oil stains

Option 2: Ready-to-Go Castor Oil Pack Kit (My Recommendation)

If you want this to feel easy (and not like a whole production), there are pre-made castor oil pack kits like this one available that include a reusable wrap designed to sit comfortably over the liver or abdomen – no plastic wrap or cutting fabric required!

These kits are especially great if:

• You’re short on time

• You want less mess

• You’re more likely to stay consistent with simple routines

Instructions

1. Prep your space. Lay a towel down so you can lie comfortably on your back.

2. Soak the cloth. Pour about 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoons of castor oil onto the cloth (I recomend starting with a teaspoon your first session and working up to a tablespoon).

3. Place it over your liver. The liver is on the right side of your abdomen, just below your rib cage. Gently place the soaked cloth on your skin in this area.

4. Cover it. If not using a ready-to-go wrap, put plastic wrap or a beeswax wrap to keep the oil from staining clothes or bedding.

5. Add warmth (optional). Place a gentle heat source over the pack for deeper relaxation and circulation support. Start low if you’re sensitive.

6. Relax for 45–60 minutes. This is a great time to journal, meditate, or decompress from your day.

7. Clean up. Remove the pack and wash the area with warm water and mild soap if needed. Store the cloth in a resealable bag in the fridge – you can reuse it until it discolors.

When & How Often to Use a Castor Oil Pack

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, but here are general guidelines:

• For general liver support: 3–5x/week for 45–60 minutes

• For digestion or constipation support: after meals or before bed

• For hormonal comfort (PMS, cramps): daily during the week leading up to your period

• For stress relief or sleep enhancement: in the evening as a calming ritual

Start with 15–20 minutes and see how you feel, then increase gradually if it feels good. Some people enjoy daily use during phases of detox focus or menstrual imbalance, while others keep it to a few times per week as part of a self-care routine.

Safety & Things to Know

• Safety Notes & Important Considerations

  While castor oil packs are generally considered a gentle, low-risk self-care practice, there are a few situations where I recommend avoiding their use:

  • During your period: Castor oil packs may increase circulation in the pelvic and abdominal area, which isn’t ideal while your body is actively menstruating.

  • If you’re trying to conceive: Because castor oil packs are often used to support detoxification and circulation, I recommend pausing them during the conception window to avoid unnecessary stimulation during this sensitive phase.

  • During pregnancy: Castor oil has historically been used to stimulate uterine activity, and while this is more associated with oral use, it’s best to avoid topical packs entirely during pregnancy unless specifically guided by a qualified healthcare provider.

  Additional notes:

  • Patch test first if you have sensitive skin — castor oil can be irritating for some.

  • This is supportive, not therapeutic. Castor oil packs do not treat or cure liver disease, hormonal conditions, or digestive disorders.

  
  

My Bottom Line as a Functional Nutrition Practitioner

If you’re looking for a simple way to gently support liver circulation, lymphatic movement, digestion, or menstrual comfort, castor oil packs can be a valuable wellness tool to incorporate into your routine. I always pair tools like this with real food support, sleep and stress management, gut healing, and hormone-balancing strategies so your body is supported at the root cause – not just symptom-managed.

Curious how castor oil packs might fit into your individualized health plan? That’s one of the things we explore together when we map out your unique functional nutrition blueprint. Learn more about my Holistic Health Counseling services.