Castor Oil & Its Remedies

Castor oil can be used to treat various conditions ranging from corns and calluses on the feet to fibroids. Castor oil is widely available at most health food stores. Castor oil, made from castor beans, the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, is slightly yellow or colorless and has a horrible taste.

Constipation

• Take 1 to 2 tsp. of castor oil on an empty stomach to treat constipation. Castor oil works in the small and large intestines by breaking down into a substance that improves movement through the digestive tract.

Corns and Callouses

• Apply castor oil directly onto corns and callouses for relief. Surround the corn or callous with a piece of adhesive-backed corn pad (found at drugstores), place a drop of castor oil directly on the corn or callous and cover with silk tape. This softens the corn enough for removal with a pumice stone.

Fibroids

• Treat fibroids by making a castor oil pack and placing it over the affected area of the abdomen. Take a piece of flannel cloth, saturate it with castor oil and make a compress. Place the compress over the fibroid area and cover it with plastic wrap, then a towel. Place a hot water bottle over the compress to relieve pain and discomfort associated with fibroids.

Bursitis

• For bursitis, massage a few teaspoons of castor oil over the affected joint. Cover with a flannel cloth, then apply a heating pad and relax. This will help ease the discomfort and pain associated with bursitis.

Warning

• As with any alternative remedy, consult with your physician if your symptoms don't improve. Castor oil is a strong alternative remedy supported by anecdotal evidence that has not been scientifically proven as a cure for disease.