I typically have moderate pain during my periods, but for the last few months I’ve had intense cramps and back pain (largely due to change of environment, change of diet, and my struggle to manage my stress during the transition of moving back to the states). Because of this, I have been exploring more natural ways to manage my pain before I reach for the ibuprofen (or wine).
Enter castor oil packs! Not only are they super relaxing, castor oil is an anti-infammatory that helps to detoxify the liver and support uterine + ovarian health by improving circulation.
Castor oils packs can be used preventatively during your luteal phase (from end of ovulation until period begins) in the days leading up to your period. You can also use them during your period as a pain treatment. If you are preparing for conception, it may be best not to use castor oil packs during ovulation or on your period, follicular and luteal phases are going to be your jam.
The idea is to keep castor oil on a piece of cloth on the skin for at least an hour with a heat source (while you journal, mediate, drink tea, watch Netflix, talk to your bestie—it’s your world).
To make a castor oil pack, you’ll need a hot water bottle or pack, castor oil (organic is best), flannel cloths, and a spare towel.
—Apply castor oil to one side of a piece of flannel or cloth, so it’s saturated, but not dripping.
—Place saturated side of cloth on your lower abdomen
—Take a large cloth or towel and cover soaked flannel. It is best to have a towel underneath you to catch any leaks (castor oils stains, so make sure this is material that you don’t mind getting dirty).
—Apply the hot water bottle or electric heating pad on top
—Relax with feet elevated
Castor oil packs can be beneficial to those experiencing uterine fibroids, cysts, PCOS, or endometriosis. 📷: @fertilealchemy
Have you tried castor oil packs? Let me know below!
