Castor oil is well-known for its wide range of benefits. Beyond promoting general health and wellness, it has long been a staple in many beauty routines. More recently, it has been gaining attention for its potential role in supporting hormonal health.
Some evidence suggests that topical application of castor oil may help boost estrogen levels in women.
So, does castor oil increase estrogen? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind this claim and take a closer look at how castor oil may influence hormone balance.
How Does Castor Oil Increase Estrogen?
Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus Communis plant. It is a vegetable oil that is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Ricinoleic acid is believed to help reduce hormonal fluctuations by inhibiting inflammation, which may, in turn, support more balanced hormone levels.
Castor oil doesn’t directly increase estrogen, but it may support overall hormonal balance through indirect mechanisms, such as:
- Liver Detoxification: Excess estrogen is broken down and eliminated by the liver. When the liver isn’t functioning optimally, this excess can interfere with the body’s hormonal feedback cycle. Applying castor oil packs may help stimulate lymphatic flow, supporting the liver’s detoxification processes and indirectly helping to regulate estrogen levels.
- Anti–inflammatory Benefits: While inflammation is a natural protective response, excessive inflammation can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially leading to conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and menstrual cramps. The anti-inflammatory properties of ricinoleic acid, when applied topically, may help counteract this effect.
- Pain Relief and Breakdown of Adhesions: The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil can help relax uterine muscles and reduce menstrual cramping.
- Promotes Lymphatic Drainage: The lymphatic system helps remove metabolic waste and clear toxins from the body. Lymph fluid circulates throughout the body until it is properly drained. However, when this circulation becomes sluggish, toxins can build up. Massaging with castor oil can help stimulate lymphatic flow and support the body’s natural detoxification process.
Additional Benefits of Castor Oil
Apart from improving estrogen metabolism, castor oil can also be used to treat skin conditions like breast cysts. Research suggests that the properties of castor oil strengthen the immune system by balancing out the nervous system.
How to Use Castor Oil to Increase Estrogen
To make a castor oil pack, soak a cloth or gauze in pure castor oil (we recommend this oil) and apply it to your abdomen. This allows the oil to penetrate targeted areas and deliver anti-inflammatory benefits.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Organic, quality castor oil
- A soft wool or cotton flannel cloth
- A heating pad or hot water bottle
- Plastic wrap or a towel (to prevent mess)
Here is a step-by-step guide you can follow:
- Soak the cloth in castor oil until fully saturated, then gently wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping before applying.
- Place the cloth over the affected area. For menstrual cramps, apply it to the lower abdomen. To help with a breast cyst, position the cloth directly over the cyst.
- Cover the cloth with plastic wrap or a towel to enhance absorption and prevent staining your clothes.
- Apply heat over the pack using a heating pad or hot water bottle for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Relax and breathe deeply as the oil absorbs into your skin.
- Remove the cloth and gently wipe the area clean.
- Store the cloth in a glass jar or plastic bag for reuse. It can be used up to 10 times.
- If you experience any allergy or skin irritation, remove the cloth immediately and wash the area. Use another mild oil over the site, like olive oil, to dilute the castor oil. Then wipe it away. Use water only after most of the castor oil has been diluted and removed.
Castor Oil and Hormonal Balance
Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various bodily functions. They are secreted in small amounts and act according to the body’s needs.
However, factors such as stress, poor diet, and lack of exercise can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to a wide range of health issues.
Estrogen and Its Role
Estrogen is primarily a female sex hormone responsible for regulating reproductive health. From puberty to menopause, estrogen levels rise and fall depending on the requirement.
During puberty, estrogen levels rise to support the development of sexual characteristics and prepare the uterus for pregnancy. Conversely, estrogen levels decline during menopause, the stage when women stop menstruating.
The drop in estrogen leads to symptoms like:
- Vaginal dryness
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings and irritability
- Depression
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Weak and brittle bones
These symptoms often interfere with daily life. While some women choose hormonal therapies, many prefer natural remedies, and castor oil offers a natural alternative.
Use Castor Oil to Promote Wellness
Research has shown that castor oil offers significant health benefits. Although it does not directly increase estrogen levels, it supports the body indirectly by enhancing estrogen metabolism.
Using castor oil packs can provide numerous advantages, including promoting liver detoxification, reducing inflammation, improving lymphatic drainage, and relieving pain. Incorporating castor oil packs into your wellness routine can help maintain hormonal balance and ease symptoms associated with declining estrogen levels.