This article covers everything you need to know about applying castor oil in your belly button. I’m sure you’ve seen it by now on social media – people are applying castor oil in their belly button and making some very wild-sounding claims. You may already be familiar with castor oil for hair and castor oil for skin, plus all the benefits it can bring for beauty. So why is belly button oiling, also known as navel oiling, the latest social media craze? The Food and Drug Administration has approved castor oil as a laxative but not for anything else. We’re about to deep dive into this woo woo practice in this ultimate guide to applying castor oil in your belly button.

Does Applying Castor Oil to the Belly Button Actually Work ?

First off, what the heck is navel oiling? Applying castor oil in your belly button might sound crazy, but it’s actually an ancient holistic healing method that goes back hundreds and hundreds of years.

Castor oil is a vegetable oil made from castor beans. The plant and beans itself are known to be toxic, but the castor oil is prepared in such a way that the toxic ricin content is removed.

According to this study, castor oil is known to have been domesticated in Eastern Africa and was introduced to China from India around 1,400 years ago.

The Native Americans commonly used castor oil to soothe joint and muscle pain, alleviate menstrual cramps, and treat skin infections. In Ayurvedic medicine, castor oil has been used for body detoxification purposes and is believed to stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements.

Obviously, the effects and the extent to which these effects take place is going to vary from individual to individual. You’ll only be able to find out how and if your body reacts to navel oiling by trying it consistently for at least a few months.

Do NOT apply castor oil to your belly button if you are: pregnant, breastfeeding, have open wounds or are allergic to castor oil.

Benefits of Castor Oil in Belly Button

Castor Oil for Bloating & Constipation

I learned so much about the real benefits castor oil can have through researching pub med articles.

According to this study, castor oil has been reported beneficial in uterine contraction, lipid metabolism, and antimicrobial activity. However, the FDA has approved only the use of castor oil as a stimulative laxative.

Castor oil in the belly button can help with relieving stomach issues like bloating, constipation and promoting digestive health.

The natural properties of castor oil can help ease these unpleasant stomach conditions that affect all of us at some point and restore balance to your digestive system.

One of the key reasons castor oil is so effective in alleviating constipation is its ability to stimulate the muscles in the intestines.

When ingested or applied topically, castor oil works as a gentle laxative, promoting movement in the bowels and encouraging bowel movements.

Castor oil can also support overall digestive health. The oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the gut, soothing any irritation and discomfort. Castor oil might be considered if you have conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Castor oil acts as a lubricant, coating the walls of the intestine and facilitating the smooth passage of stool. This reduces strain during bowel movements, making them more comfortable and preventing the potential for hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

When using castor oil to relieve constipation, it’s important to find the right dosage for your body. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it if needed. It’s also crucial to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions or if you’re taking other medications.

There’s a few ways you can administer castor oil. You can easily consume it by mixing a teaspoon of castor oil with a warm beverage or adding it to your favorite smoothie. If you prefer topical application, gently massaging castor oil into your belly button or on your abdomen can also provide relief.

Castor Oil for Boosting Immune System & Reducing Inflammation

One of the ways castor oil can support the immune system is through its antimicrobial properties.

Some research suggests that the oil may have the ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. By minimizing the presence of these potentially harmful microorganisms, castor oil can help reduce the risk of infections and bolster the body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Research indicates that certain compounds found in castor oil, such as ricinoleic acid, may help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. By doing so, castor oil may offer relief from inflammatory conditions like arthritis and provide a natural, holistic approach to managing chronic pain and discomfort.

Castor Oil for Muscle Pain

The soothing properties of castor oil extend beyond its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a promising solution for those seeking relief from joint and muscle pain.

For individuals struggling with the symptoms of arthritis, castor oil may provide much-needed relief.

The anti-inflammatory properties of this versatile oil can help alleviate the pain, stiffness, and swelling commonly associated with this condition.

If you apply castor oil topically to the affected joints, you may experience a reduction in inflammation, allowing for improved mobility and a greater sense of comfort.

Also, castor oil can also be a valuable aid for those recovering from intense workouts or experiencing muscle pain. Whether it’s post-workout soreness or muscle strains, the soothing properties of castor oil can help alleviate discomfort and promote faster healing.

@maggieroseadvocate Replying to @chic937 here’s how you use castor oil packs for cysts. #castoroil #castoroilpack #castoroilpacks #cysts #ovariancysts ♬ original sound – Magdalene (Maggie) Rose

What sets castor oil apart from other options is its natural and holistic approach to pain management. Rather than relying on synthetic drugs or medications with potential side effects, castor oil serves as a gentle alternative for reducing inflammation and soothing joint and muscle pain. Its therapeutic benefits extend beyond digestion, making it an excellent addition to any wellness routine seeking to address chronic pain or discomfort.

How to Apply Castor Oil to Belly Button

First, it’s important that you use hexane-free, organic castor oil stored in glass packaging NOT plastic.

How does belly button oil or navel oiling work? It’s super simple:

1. Take the castor oil and fill your belly button with it
2. Keep it in your belly button for at least 30 to 45 minutes (or longer if possible)
3. Massage it in to aid with absorption
4. Wipe it off

In Ayurvedic medicine, you warm the oil first before applying it.

It’s believed that there is a gland in your belly button or navel called the Pechoti gland which allows your body to absorb substances. The navel holds significance as well because it’s known as the starting point of life.

What Oils are Good for the Belly Button?

Besides castor oil, there are a variety of oils you can use each offering their own benefits. Other popular belly button oils are coconut oil, neem oil and rosehip oil.

How Often Should you Oil your Belly Button?

Daily, ideally before bed.

Too lazy? Try Castor Oil Packs

If lying idle with castor oil in your belly button for an hour sounds like too much work, check out using a castor oil pack instead. Castor oil packs come as a kit that allows you to apply castor oil to your body and remain mobile and active throughout. You can also wear a castor oil pack overnight.

Check out: Best Non-Toxic Pillows (My Faves)