Because your liver is an incredible organ that filters over a liter of blood every minute, we need to give it some love and support every once and a while. Castor oil packs have been used in many cultures for the multitude of benefits they provide. Their deep, subtle, and warming effect makes castor oil packs the ideal choice when either your liver or your reproductive system is in need of both cleansing and rejuvenating! This super-simple, low-cost liver therapy is a great addition to an Ayurvedic spring cleanse and helps alleviate a variety of ills, including any inflammatory conditions, allergies, digestive disorders, and hormonal imbalances. This practice is deeply relaxing and worthwhile.
Benefits of Castor Oil Packs
Relieves stagnation in the liver
Stimulates the natural cleansing of the tissues and releases toxins for elimination
Nourishes and strengthens the channels
Helps release deep-seated emotions held in the liver
Instructions
First you need to find your liver. To do this bring your fingers to the bottom of your right ribcage. The liver rests just under the very bottom of the ribcage, extending from the far right side of your body to the center, and is roughly the size of your hand.
Obtain a piece of cotton flannel or unbleached wool (three layers thick, about 1 square foot in size). Soak the cloth in castor oil. Gather two towels and a plastic bag or some plastic wrap. Prepare a hot water bottle.
Place these materials in comfortable spot where you can rest. Lie down with one of the towels underneath you.
Place the oil-soaked cloth over your liver. Cover the cloth with the plastic and then with the second towel. Place the hot water bottle on top.
Allow the castor oil pack to remain in place for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This is an ideal time to meditate, read, listen to soothing music, or just sleep.
Remove the castor oil pack. Gently massage your liver in small, clockwise, circular motions.
Note: You can keep the oil-soaked cloth and re-use it up to 10 times. Store in the fridge. You can wipe away extra oil or let the cloth absorb it. Just note that castor oil can stain, so wear old clothes and make sure you take care to place a towel under you.
CAUTIONS
Avoid castor oil packs if you are menstruating, pregnant, or breastfeeding or if you have diarrhea or any infections in the pelvic region. Talk to your health care provider if you have any questions.
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of Ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease