Castor oil is often referred to as 'Palma Christi' meaning 'hand of Christ', given this name because of its palm-shaped leaves.   My first encounter with this wonderful healing oil began in childhood when my grandmother (good old grandma again!) would, on a weekly basis proffer this thick, strange tasting oil on a spoon telling me to 'swallow quickly, it is good for you' (not recommended internally - please consult a health-care professional).

My second encounter with castor oil came in my twenties when I read a book about Edgar Cayce (referred to as 'The Sleeping Prophet') who lived in the latter part of the nineteenth century and died in l945. For forty-three years of his life, Edgar Cayce had the ability to put himself into a trance state by lying down, closing his eyes and folding his hands over his solar plexus (stomach area).  In this 'state' he could answer questions as how best to heal the many health problems countless people presented to him; always with amazing results.

Although Cayce died more than half a century ago, his on-going legacy is evidenced in the many books that have been written about him - some of these are: 'There Is a River' written in 1942 by Thomas Sugrue, 'The Sleeping Prophet' (1967) by Jess Stearn, 'Many Mansions' (1950) by Gina Cerminara, and more recently 'Edgar Cayce - An American Prophet' written by Sidney Kirkpatrick and 'The Oil That Heals' written by Dr. William McGarey, who after coming across the story of Edgar Cayce in the 1950's, started using castor oil with great success. McGarey writes that in the years prior to his death, Edgar Cayce had an affinity for castor oil and advocated its use hundreds of times in his readings.

So what are the properties of castor oil and why is it so good for our skin? 

Castor oil contains many essential fatty acids

• Ricinoleic acid (approximately 90%) thought to be responsible for its healing abilities.
  
• Oleic Acid
  
• Linoleic acid
  
• Linolenic acid
  
• Stearic acid
  
• Dihydroxystearic acid

This combination accounts for the unique combination of physical properties making castor oil an excellent emollient and lubricating oil. Castor oil is also widely used in the manufacture of cosmetics, skin cream and lotions, lipsticks, and face masks because of its moisturising and nutritive properties. Massaging the body with castor oil prior to taking a bath will help the skin absorb the nutrients from this oil. It is also a great way to stimulate the internal organs and muscles.

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil has a long history of traditional medical use dating back to ancient Egypt. Castor oil is derived from the castor bean (Ricinus communis. Although it was once taken orally as a laxative, it is best used externally over unbroken skin. 

Castor oil is extracted from the bean or seed of the castor oil plant.  This bean contains ricin, a toxic protein that is removed by cold pressing leaving a non-toxic oil which is perfectly safe to use on the body.  Its effectiveness appears to come from the fact that this oil draws blood and improves circulation in the area to which it is applied.

What is a Castor Oil Pack?

A castor oil pack involves soaking a natural fibre cloth (wool flannel is best) in castor oil which is then placed on the skin to improve circulation and to promote the healing of the tissues and organs. Many alternative practitioners also use it to help with liver function, to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and to improve the digestion.

How to make a Castor Oil Pack

Castor oil packs are made by soaking a piece of flannel in castor oil and placing it on the skin over the internal organs. The flannel is covered with a sheet of plastic, and then a hot water bottle is placed over the plastic to heat the pack. This may be left on the body for 40 - 60 minutes, removed and the skin washed with a solution of bicarb soda and water.

A castor oil pack can be placed on the following body regions: The right side of the abdomen to relieve constipation and other digestive disorders. The lower abdomen to help with menstrual problems. Note: Castor oil should not be applied to broken skin and should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or during menstruation.  

I have personally used castor oil for many years on my skin (both face and body) and in my hair to improve condition - I also massage the oil into my finger nails to keep them strong and healthy. From time to time I add a few drops of my favourite essential oils ..... geranium, rose, sandalwood, frankincense, lavender and more ... depending on what I need at the time. (Please note: because of its consistency, castor oil may stain clothes; please be careful when applying to face or body.  If you apply this oil to your face at night, cover your pillowcase with an old cloth or towel.)

Edgar Cayce spoke of a 'Castor Oil Consciousness' .... which literally translated means that if you are attracted to using castor oil, then it may well be something that will help you. If you are attracted to castor oil, make sure it is a good quality product, cold pressed and sourced from a reputable supplier.  

A quote from Edgar Cayce, the 'Sleeping Prophet' .... "let me be a channel of blessings today, now, to those that I contact in every way".

Wishing you good health always ...... and many castor oil blessings!

Please do not 'self-diagnose' if you are unwell, always consult a health-care professional for your health concerns before embarking on any course of self-treatment.