Les puissants bienfaits de l'huile de ricin : l'avis d'un clinicien sur un remède ancien
As someone who has been a practicing therapist, researching & working with the nervous system, chronic pain and the effects of trauma for 25 years, I've personally witnessed the incredible healing properties of castor oil.
This age-old remedy, derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has been utilized across various cultures, from ancient Egypt to Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. What sets castor oil apart is its remarkable concentration of ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid that accounts for many of its health benefits.
Over the years, I’ve included castor oil in multiple treatment plans, observing its significant impact on pain relief, detoxification, digestive health, and more. Here’s a closer look at what both scientific research and my clinical experiences suggest about this remarkable natural remedy.
1. Effective Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Reliever
Going through my schooling 25 years ago, one of my teachers introduced me to castor oil when I had knee joint inflammation from a chronic injury I had sustained from years of soccer. He walked me through how to make a poultice with it and place it on my painful joint. To my amazement and pleasant surprise, after 3 days of using it it was substantially better. Inflammation is often behind many chronic health issues, and in my experience, castor oil has been highly effective at alleviating it.
Studies indicate that ricinoleic acid can help reduce prostaglandins, which are involved in the inflammatory response. I frequently recommend castor oil packs to patients suffering from arthritis, joint pain, or low back muscle soreness. Applying warm castor oil to sore areas not only helps decrease swelling but also boosts blood circulation, aiding quicker recovery. Numerous patients with chronic pain have reported significant relief with ongoing castor oil therapy.
2. Enhances Lymphatic Drainage & Detoxification
This past year, I have had an 80-year-old client with a "lump" on his right shoulder that accumulated from old days carrying steel on that shoulder. The lump was affecting is nerves and range of motion on that side, and he had tingling sensations down the arm that were uncomfortable and painful. I asked to apply castor oil as he came for weekly sessions and in a matter of 3 weeks, the lump disappeared. If I did not witness it with my own eyes, I would not believe it either.
A lesser-known yet significant advantage of castor oil is its influence on lymphatic function. The lymphatic system is vital for waste removal and immune health. Research shows that castor oil can increase the count of T-lymphocytes, which are crucial for immune support. In my practice, I've seen patients with sluggish lymphatic flow experience reduced swelling and improved detoxification after using castor oil packs regularly.
3. Promotes Digestive Health & Eases Constipation
Castor oil has a long-standing reputation as a powerful laxative due to its ability to stimulate the intestines. Clinical research shows that ricinoleic acid activates EP3 prostaglandin receptors in the intestines, facilitating peristalsis. While I advise patients not to rely on castor oil frequently to avoid dependence, it can be an effective natural solution for occasional constipation.
Many have also found that applying it topically to the abdomen helps alleviate digestive discomfort, likely due to its anti-inflammatory nature. This is where where making castorl oil packs and placing it over the liver (which is on the upper right quadrent of your abdomen) can be very effective for any digestion problems as the liver and intestines have a crucial, bidirectional interaction through the portal vein, where the liver receives nutrient-rich blood from the intestines, processes it, and then sends bile, a digestive fluid, back to the intestines to aid in fat digestion and waste removal.
4. Supports Skin Healing & Hydration
I often use castor oil in my practice for its exceptional skin healing and moisturizing properties. Its antimicrobial and antifungal qualities make it great for treating acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Studies support its wound-healing abilities, showing that it accelerates skin repair and collagen production.
I've seen significant improvements in patients dealing with scars, burns, and even fungal infections like athlete’s foot when using castor oil. For some clients and including family members I add castor oil to a blend of other oils and essential oils depending on the skin type and condition. 5. Improves Female Reproductive Health
I've noticed that many of my female patients find relief with castor oil packs for reproductive issues. By enhancing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, castor oil can help regularize menstrual cycles, reduce cramps, and even support fertility. Sometimes, I suggest, besides the packs on the abdomen, pouring warm oil into the belly button and massage it gently in.
Some studies suggest its anti-inflammatory properties may assist in managing conditions like endometriosis and fibroids. I've seen positive changes in my patients who incorporate castor oil into a holistic approach to reproductive health.
6. Assists with Wound Healing & Immune Function
Beyond being a moisturizer, castor oil is known for its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. Research shows that it can boost white blood cell production, which enhances the immune response and speeds up tissue repair. I have found it to be effective in treating slow-healing wounds and post-surgical scars, often used alongside other natural therapies as lymphatic drainage, cupping therapy and fascial release.
How to Use Castor Oil Effectively
Topical Application: Gently massage onto affected areas for pain relief or skin hydration.
Castor Oil Packs: Soak a cloth in warm castor oil, place it on the abdomen, cover with plastic wrap, and apply heat for 30-60 minutes.
Hair & Scalp Treatment: Apply to the scalp and leave it overnight before rinsing with a mild shampoo.
Internal Use: Under professional guidance, a small, regulated dose can be taken occasionally for constipation relief.
Precautions & Considerations
While castor oil is a powerful natural remedy, it should be used cautiously. Pregnant women should refrain from internal use since it may induce labor. Those with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test before application. Overuse as a laxative can lead to dependence and dehydration. I always recommend using it responsibly and consulting a healthcare professional if unsure.
With a blend of historical tradition and scientific support, castor oil stands out as one of the most versatile remedies in herbal medicine. Its benefits range from pain relief and detoxification to skin and reproductive health. In my experience, many patients have seen incredible improvements by integrating castor oil into their wellness routines. Whether you’re looking for relief from chronic pain, digestive issues, or skin ailments, this ancient remedy remains relevant in today’s natural medicine landscape.
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Mihael Mamychshvili
Creator NeuroPath Reset Method
Master teacher, coach, mentor.
