Castor Medicine for Women’s Health
A Womb-Wise Ritual for Women through the Life Stages
For generations, women have turned to natural therapies to reconnect with their bodies and bring balance to their cycles. One such ancient remedy, castor oil packs, offers profound support for the womb—whether you’re actively menstruating, in the sacred window of postpartum recovery, or transitioning through perimenopause and menopause.
Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, is known in both folk and Ayurvedic medicine as a deeply penetrating, cleansing, and nourishing oil. When applied externally with heat, castor oil stimulates circulation, encourages lymphatic flow, breaks up stagnation, and softens tissues. When placed over the uterus and lower abdomen, this practice becomes a powerful act of therapeutic restoration.
For Women in Their Menstruating Years:
Eases Menstrual Cramps & Flow: The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil soothe uterine spasms, reduce congestion, and can help bring a more balanced, easeful menstrual flow.
Supports Detox & Blood Flow: Used in the luteal phase or just before menstruation, castor oil helps move lymph and clear out metabolic waste, which supports a healthier, smoother bleed, reducing excessive flow and clots.
Balances Cycle Irregularities: For those dealing with scanty, irregular, or clotty periods, castor oil packs can help improve uterine tone and circulation.
In the Postpartum Window:
Gentle Womb Recovery: Castor oil can support uterine involution, reduce swelling, and help clear out residual blood or fluids. (It’s best used after the bleeding has fully stopped and under guidance of a practitioner.)
Soothes Scar Tissue: For those healing from cesarean birth or perineal trauma, castor oil’s ability to soften adhesions can support long-term tissue repair and pelvic mobility. (Use only after scars have fully healed and recommended by a professional)
Emotional Grounding: Postpartum can be a tender and disorienting time—this ritual offers grounding, warmth, and a way to reconnect with the body after birth. It is one of the quintessential vata balancing therapies.
For Perimenopausal Women:
Balances Hormonal Shifts: As estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, the liver and lymphatic system can become burdened. Castor oil packs support detoxing pathways, easing symptoms like breast tenderness, bloating, or mood swings.
Calms the Nervous System: A warm castor oil pack is deeply calming to the vagus nerve and supports parasympathetic rest—a balm for the often-overstimulated perimenopausal woman.
Emotional Grounding: In a time of significant changes, this ritual offers grounding, warmth, and a way to reconnect with the body through this big transition. Again, it is one of the quintessential vata balancing therapies.
In Menopause and Beyond:
Supports Pelvic Circulation: With the cessation of menses, pelvic tissues can become dry or stagnant. Regular castor oil application supports blood and lymph flow, keeping the pelvic bowl nourished and vital.
Eases Digestive & Liver Congestion: Since menopause often brings changes in digestion and metabolism, this gentle therapy can ease bloating, constipation, and support the liver in processing hormonal shifts.
A Ritual of Self-Attunement: At this stage, the womb becomes an energetic space of wisdom. Castor oil packs are less about “fixing” and more about honoring—tending the sacred space of origin and creativity.
How to Do a Castor Oil Pack
Gather your materials: Cold-pressed castor oil, a piece of wool or flannel, plastic wrap or old towel, and a hot water bottle or heating pad.
Soak the cloth in castor oil until saturated but not dripping.
Place it over the lower abdomen, directly on the skin.
Cover with plastic wrap or towel, then apply heat.
Relax for 30 minutes, 3-5 times per week.
Cleanse the area with a mild soap or baking soda solution afterward.
A Word of Wisdom
Castor oil packs are not recommended during active menstruation, pregnancy, or when trying to conceive that cycle (as they may stimulate the uterus). Always consult with a holistic practitioner if you’re unsure about timing or safety.
Remedy for Remembering
More than just a remedy, castor oil packs awaken the sacred sensation in your womb. They invite us into deeper intimacy with our body, honoring the shifting seasons within. Whether you’re bleeding, birthing, changing, or closing the cycle—this humble plant medicine can be your companion in renewal, restoration, and remembering.
Book a consult to get support bringing this practicing into your daily life or schedule a Maya Healing session to receive the therapy with me.
