If you scour the internet these days, you’ll come across many different “natural remedies” for hormone health and fertility. Some are newer to the market, while others, like castor oil, have been around for centuries. But what is castor oil, exactly, and what are its potential benefits when it comes to your reproductive health? Let’s dive in.   

What is castor oil?

Castor oil is a pale-yellow liquid extracted from the seeds of the castor plant, scientifically known as Ricinus communis. It contains a unique compound called ricinoleic acid, which is believed to be responsible for many of its therapeutic properties. Ricinoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. 

woman holding a squeezer full of castor oil

Potential benefits of castor oil packs when it comes to fertility

  1. Calming reproductive inflammation: That ricinoleic acid we mentioned? It has some impressive anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in your fallopian tubes, uterus, and ovaries — potentially creating a more welcoming environment for conception.
  2. Boosting blood flow to all the right places: Better circulation to your reproductive organs could support healthier follicle development, more robust ovulation, and that lush endometrial lining your body needs for implantation.
  3. Giving your hormones a helping hand: By supporting your liver function (especially when placed over the right side of your abdomen), castor oil packs might help your body metabolize hormones more efficiently — pretty crucial if you're hoping for regular cycles and healthy ovulation.
  4. Taking a timeout for your reproductive health: Let's be real — trying to conceive can be stressful. The enforced rest while using a castor oil pack might help lower those cortisol levels that can throw your reproductive hormones out of whack.
  5. Easing reproductive discomfort: If you're dealing with conditions like endometriosis or PCOS that can impact fertility, the natural pain-relieving properties of castor oil might offer some welcome relief.
  6. Supporting overall reproductive wellness: The combination of better circulation and reduced inflammation may promote healthier tissue in your reproductive organs — and that's never a bad thing when you're trying to conceive.

How to use castor oil packs for fertility

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One of the most popular ways to use castor oil is through castor oil packs. This involves soaking a cloth in castor oil and placing it on the skin, usually over the lower abdomen. We are big fans of the Queen of the Thrones® Liver Pack for less mess and additional protection. However, you can also make your own castor oil pack at home using high-quality, organic castor oil, a soft cloth (like flannel), plastic wrap, and a heating pad.  

Steps 1-5

  1. To prepare the pack, soak the cloth in castor oil until it's saturated but not dripping.
  2. Lie down, and place the cloth on your lower abdomen, over your uterus and ovaries.
  3. Cover the cloth with plastic wrap to prevent staining.
  4. Place the heating pad over the plastic wrap, set it to a comfortable temperature, and relax for 30-60 minutes. This warmth enhances absorption and promotes circulation.
  5. When you’re done with the session, gently clean your skin with a natural cleanser, and store the cloth in a sealed container. The oil can be reused for several sessions.

You can also alternate placing the pack over your liver — on the right side of your abdomen — for detoxification purposes. Either way, wear clothes that can get stained, in case the oil leaks.

For optimal safety, only apply castor oil packs during your follicular phase — from the end of your period until ovulation. If you're actively trying to conceive, avoid using castor oil packs entirely after you've ovulated.

woman hugging a hot water bottle

In addition to castor oil packs, fertility massage using castor oil is gaining popularity as a complementary therapy for reproductive health. This involves gently massaging the abdomen with warm castor oil to improve blood flow and relieve tension in the pelvic region. It is said to offer a lot of the same anti-inflammatory benefits as castor oil packs. 

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Is there research to support using castor oil packs for fertility?

While castor oil has been used in functional medicine for centuries, it's important to note that scientific research on its direct impact on fertility is limited. As with any natural remedy, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating castor oil packs into your daily routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking certain medications.

Still, castor oil packs tend to be a low-risk option that may be worth a try if you’re hoping to improve your fertility. Just be sure to check with your doctor first. 

Remember, fertility is a complex interplay of various factors, and what works for one person may not work for another. Regardless of the methods you choose, maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management will undoubtedly contribute positively to your fertility journey. Best of luck! 

Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.