My Personal Experience With Castor Oil

I started using castor oil last year when I discovered cysts in my breasts. I began applying castor oil over the area every night to support lymphatic drainage and gentle detox. Over time, I noticed the cysts shrinking — and when I went back for a scan six months later, they were gone. That was the moment I realised how powerful simple, natural routines can be.

Since then, castor oil has become part of my nightly ritual. I now use it over my liver and gut to support detox, ease discomfort, and reduce bloating. It’s become one of my favourite low-tox habits.

My daughter also uses castor oil for period pain, and it’s been incredibly soothing for her.

For such a simple, inexpensive, natural product — I’m genuinely amazed at how effective and supportive it has been for both of us.

What Barbara O’Neill Says Castor Oil Can Help With

A gentle guide to the traditional uses of this powerful old-world remedy

Castor oil has been used for generations, but it’s become popular again thanks to educators like Barbara O’Neill, who often speaks about its ability to support the body’s natural healing and detox processes.

Here are the main things Barbara O’Neill teaches castor oil may help with:

1. Drawing Out Toxins & Stagnation

Barbara often says castor oil penetrates deeply into the tissues, helping the body to:

• Pull out stagnation

• Soften hardened or congested areas

• Encourage natural detoxification

• Support the removal of built-up waste

This is why castor oil packs are traditionally placed over areas that feel tight, blocked, or heavy.

2. Lymphatic Drainage Support

She teaches that castor oil helps the lymph system move more freely. According to her, it can assist with:

• Reducing puffiness

• Improving lymph circulation

• Supporting detox pathways

• Reducing fluid retention

This is one of the reasons so many people use it on the breasts, abdomen, and liver area.

3. Liver Cleansing & Detox Support

One of Barbara O’Neill’s most well-known recommendations is a castor oil pack over the liver. She says it can help:

• Reduce liver congestion

• Support natural detox functions

• Boost energy

• Improve digestion

• Reduce heaviness or sluggishness

4. Digestive Comfort

Barbara teaches that castor oil packs placed over the abdomen can help with:

• Bloating

• Gas

• Constipation

• Cramping

• General abdominal tension

Many people find this incredibly soothing before bed.

5. Pain & Inflammation Relief

She also says castor oil may help calm:

• Period pain

• Muscle tension

• Lower abdominal discomfort

• Sore or overworked areas

• Joint stiffness

This is why warm castor oil packs are commonly used for monthly cycles and muscle relief.

6. Skin Healing & Hydration

Barbara highlights castor oil’s skin benefits, saying it can help:

• Hydrate dry skin

• Soften scars

• Calm irritated patches

• Support skin repair

• Improve skin smoothness

Its thick, nutrient-rich texture makes it deeply nourishing.

7. Immune System Support

Barbara says castor oil packs may help activate and support the body’s natural immune responses by:

• Encouraging flow through lymph nodes

• Reducing swelling

• Supporting detox organs

• Helping the body clear waste more efficiently

8. Women’s Health & Reproductive Support

Castor oil packs are often mentioned by Barbara for their traditional uses in:

• Easing period pain

• Supporting pelvic circulation

• Calming bloating

• Reducing lower abdominal tension

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack (Barbara O’Neill Style)

1. Slightly warm your castor oil.

2. Soak a piece of flannel or cotton in the oil.

3. Apply it to the area (liver, abdomen, breasts, etc.).

4. Cover with a towel.

5. Add a hot water bottle for 45–60 minutes.

6. Relax and let it absorb.