Castor Oil packs are one of my favorite home remedies for the Spring! This simple, affordable DIY home treatment offers a world of health benefits, but my favorite use is to release emotional or physical congestion. Castor oil improves elimination and circulation, especially of the
lymphatic system, creating the ease and flow that is associated with the
Wood Element of Chinese Medicine.
The lymphatic system is the fluid portion of the blood that brings nutrients and oxygen into our cells, and brings waste and toxins out of our cells. Unlike the blood which is actively pumped by the heart, the lymph is a passive fluid. This means it is moved by activity, and when these fluids are stagnant, we experience symptoms such as pain, inflammation, sluggishness or mental fog.
Some cues that it might worth giving a castor oil pack a try are:
* Feeling physically stagnant (including physical symptoms such as constipation, a delayed menses, or feeling bloated or congested)
* Feeling emotionally stagnant- like there is some area of your life that just isn't flowing
* Feeling frustrated, irritated or depressed
* Frequent deep sighing
* Water retention
Castor oil packs are made with several layers of flannel and
cold-pressed castor oil (both of which can be purchased online or from a
local health food store), either individually or as a easy to use set.
Here's how to make your own:
