Castor oil is a thick, pale yellow oil pressed from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, prized for centuries thanks to its ricinoleic acid, which delivers anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and nourishing effects.

Castor oil is celebrated for its ability to ease constipation, boost detox through the liver and lymphatic system, calm inflammation, soothe menstrual cramps, support skin healing and even help shift the body into a more relaxed, stress-relieving state.

Castor oil packs are cloths soaked in castor oil and placed on the skin, often over the abdomen or liver, to deliver ricinoleic acid deep into the body. They work by boosting circulation, stimulating the liver and lymphatic system for detox and nudging the nervous system into "rest-and-digest" mode for better relaxation, digestion and repair.

For most adults, castor oil packs are a gentle, low-risk tool, but they’re not for every situation. They should be avoided during pregnancy, used cautiously if periods are heavy and skipped if you’ve got sensitive skin, open wounds or a known allergy to castor oil.