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THE HEALING PATH A soulful journey from suffering to grace - Lesson 4
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton
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The Healing Path The Healing Path: Palma Christi, The Healing Applications and Effects of Castor Oil Understanding Castor Oil – Castor oil has been used for thousands of years for various purposes. The castor oil plant has a long history of ethno-pharmaceutical use for the treatment of abdominal disorders, arthritis, backache, muscle aches, sciatica, chronic headache, constipation, gallbladder disorders, menstrual pain, and the reduction and treatment of scar tissue. Hippocrates, the father of traditional medicine, used castor oil as a laxative and purgative around 400 BCE. The name Palma Christi has been given to the castor oil plant, which is also known by its scientific name Ricinus communis. The origin of the name Palma Christi is not clear, but it is believed to have been used during the Middle Ages. The plant has a long history of medicinal applications and is known for its healing properties. Castor oil is a natural plant oil that is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also a good source of vitamin E, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, and other nutrients that are beneficial for skin, fingernail, and hair health.
The Historical Use of Castor Oil and Castor Oil Packs Castor oil's history of use spans centuries, continents, and cultures, each contributing to its esteemed reputation. Here are some examples of cultures that have traditionally used castor oil for healing: 1. Ancient Egypt: Castor oil was revered by the ancient Egyptians for its potential medicinal properties. It was used as a topical remedy for various skin conditions, eye disorders, and as a purgative. 2. Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine: In Ayurvedic medicine, castor oil has been employed for detoxification, massage, and digestive support. It's believed to balance the doshas and promote overall well-being.
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3. China and Traditional Asian Medicine: Castor oil was used in traditional Chinese and Asian medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It was often applied topically to alleviate pain and inflammation. 4. Caribbean and East and West Indian Cultures: Castor oil was used as a weekly purgative to help with cleansing of the intestine and the prevention of parasites. Castor oil packs have been used by naturalists, naturopathic doctors, herbalists, and other traditional practitioners. Edgar Cayce, an American clairvoyant who lived in the early 20th century, recommended castor oil for treating many ailments that resist traditional therapies. According to the Edgar Cayce health care readings, castor oil packs may be used to improve assimilation, elimination, and circulation, especially of the lymphatic system. Cayce also mentioned physiological effects on the body such as stimulation to the liver, to dissolve and remove adhesions and scar tissue, to relieve pain, to stimulate gallbladder metabolism, to increase lymphatic circulation, to enhance gastrointestinal assimilation, to improve elimination, to reduce inflammation, to reduce flatulence, to dissolve and remove lacteal duct cysts and adhesions, to relieve nausea, to dissolve gallstones, stimulate lacteal duct circulation, to reduce swelling, to improve liver-kidney coordination, to stimulate organs and glands, to relieve headaches, to stimulate bowel peristalsis, to improve perspiration, to remove lung congestion and improve respiration, to improve skin circulation (blood and lymph), and to reduce cysts. Castor oil packs are one of the most frequently and universally recommended remedies in the Edgar Cayce readings. A castor oil pack is an external application of castor oil to the body. A piece of wool or cotton flannel is saturated with castor oil and applied to a specified area with, or without, heat. However, I recommend the use of moist heat with a castor oil pack whenever possible.
Castor Oil and Castor Oil Pack Use at the Blue Heron Academy Clinics As mentioned above, at the Blue Heron Academy clinic and Clinical Health Maintenance, we use castor oil packs in conjunction with chiropractic, naprapathic, AcuMyoTherapy, tuina, acupressure, medical massage, and medical manual therapy treatment regimens. Also, as cited above we combine the use of castor oil packs with moist heat. Moist heat increases localized blood flow and lymphatic activity in the specific area where the castor oil pack is being applied and greatly increases the effectiveness of the castor oil pack and the absorption and passage of castor oil through the skin and into the interstitial spaces between cells as well as in the micro circulatory system and lymphatic vessels where it can produce its biochemical and physiological effects. Using moist heat with a castor oil pack is one of three
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primary methods by which to increase the efficiency of a castor oil pack. A second method utilized with castor oil, or any plant, seed, or essential oil is the application of manual massage friction. When we add herbal materials or essential oils to a carrier oil, we are producing a “medicated” oil. You can purchase medicated oils such as Po Sum Oil commercially or you can blend and make your own. Manual friction entails the use of the hands in a rapid rubbing motion across the skin. This method produces heat and compression which combine to propel an oil or medicated oil through the skin layers and towards the circulatory and lymphatic vessels. In the example of a castor oil pack these two methods, adding moist heat and/or manual friction, are superior to applying a castor oil pack to the skin without moist heat or manual friction in terms of penetration and absorption. In our clinical use of castor oil, we frequently combine castor oil with fresh or dried medicinal herbs such as comfrey, plantain, marigold, lavender, calendula, burdock, rose, ginger, and other healing herbs depending upon the condition, disorder, or illness being treated. This combination of castor oil and herbs is then applied over an affected area as a poultice or compress. As previously mentioned, we also combine castor oil with essential oils, often from the same list of herbs cited above, to produce medicated oils. We frequently utilize medicated oils in our clinics using moist heat and/or manual friction. Two oils that significantly add to the effectiveness of castor oil applications are myrrh and frankincense. Castor oil is a high “viscosity” oil meaning that it is very thick and sticky. When you apply moist heat, you reduce the viscosity of the castor oil making it more liquid. When you combine castor oil with another a less viscous carrier oil and an essential oil, for example sweet almond oil and lavender oil, you are creating a less viscous blend of medicated oils. You will also get the biochemical benefits of not only the castor oil but the additional benefits of the added carrier oil and the essential oil which range from aromatic effects to direct localized and general systemic effects. In the example of adding lavender oil to a castor oil pack you get the aromatic benefits of lavender oil and its physiological effects which include increased blood and lymphatic flow and drainage as well as its analgesic effect on nerves and a subsequent reduction in pain. Another example of creating and using a medicated oil is the blending of a mixture of safflower oil with ground cayenne pepper. We call this medicated oil, “Red Oil” because of its rusty red color. Red oil manifests the benefits of both its carrier oil (in this example safflower oil) and the major properties of ground cayenne pepper which include vasodilation and increased localized blood circulation as well as analgesia or pain relief. Red oil is less viscous than castor oil and is easily applied to the skin and amenable to introduction through
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the skin via moist heat and/or manual friction. Both moist heat and manual friction may be combined during a treatment. It is common to apply twenty or more minutes of moist heat with a castor oil pack or blended essential oil pack and then to remove the pack and to apply several minutes of manual friction over and around the area or region the pack was applied to.
Castor Oil for the Treatment of Traumatic and Post-Surgical Scars – In our clinics we use castor oil to treat post-surgical scars and to accelerate healing after artificial joint replacement surgery. When we use castor oil for this purpose, to soften, reduce and treat surgical scars, and to accelerate cellular healing, we apply castor oil as a castor oil pack. Castor oil packs have been shown to increase white blood cell counts and activity, increase the rate of connective tissue regeneration, to reduce the size and spread of scar tissue, to soften scar tissue, to promote the production of normal collagen and fascia, and to reduce or eliminate inflammation in connective tissue and around joints. Many of the effects of castor oil result in an increase in joint range of motion and mobility. Castor oil can be used to break down old scar tissue and improve the patency and appearance of a scar. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil directly interacts with the inflammatory mediators in the body, such as prostaglandins, to reduce inflammation. For example, when applied to the heel and arch of the foot, it can target the inflamed plantar fascia, offering localized relief from pain and swelling. Castor oil forms a protective layer on the skin, sealing in moisture. This can be particularly beneficial for cracked heels or dry skin in addition to plantar fasciitis, as these secondary symptoms can worsen the primary condition by causing additional stress on the plantar fascia. Castor oil helps repair damaged skin cells and nourishes and heals scars with consistent application. Castor oil is high in fatty acids that can penetrate deep into scar tissue, encouraging the healthy growth of normal collagen and fascia.
The Use of Castor Oil for Musculoskeletal and Chronic Joint Degeneration and Pain Castor oil packs are effective treatment for muscle and joint pain and inflammation. Castor oil packs can help alleviate muscle pain and reduce muscle spasms or cramping. Castor oil packs can also help relax muscles, ligaments, and the joint capsule to support healing, increase circulation, support healthy lymph movement, support connective tissue repair and rejuvenation, and promote balanced fluid exchange around joints.
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The benefits of castor oil packs in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions cannot be overstated. When castor oil packs are used in manual therapy, they are normally the last step in a multi-step treatment protocol and may be applied from twenty to fifty minutes.
Castor Oil and the Upper Respiratory Tract In the Northern climates winter is hard on the body and its immune system. Generally, temperatures are lower, the air is dryer because air holds less humidity at colder temperatures, and there is less sunlight because of increased cloud cover and snowfall. This is also the worse time of the year for seasonal infectious diseases such as the common cold, influenza, and pneumonia. Additionally, because of decreased ultraviolent light, the endocrine and immune systems are weakened and less active, and many people experience seasonal affective disorder marked by a disruption of the body’s endocrine system. Cold air, holding less humidity than warm air, tends to dry out the upper respiratory passages and specifically the nasal passages and sinuses. These are the areas that are invaded by respiratory pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, and where infectious organisms get a foothold towards causing upper respiratory infections. Cold dry air causes dry, irritated, and inflamed nasal, pharynx, mouth, and throat passages. As previously stated, this is an invitation for infection. For some people, this dryness and irritation leads to nose bleeds. The nose and upper respiratory passages produce mucus to trap viruses and other infectious invaders or irritating substances such as dust and pollen. In the winter, the mucus is dried out and less effective at performing that task. Also, in dry air bacteria and viruses can linger longer in the air after someone coughs or sneezes. When a furnace blower comes on it dries the indoor air significantly and it may fill a home with the dirt and dust from the furnace duct work and that causes more inflammation and irritation in the respiratory passages. In a previous article I wrote about how important home and office humidification is during the cold and dry winter months, I mentioned that home and office air humidity routinely drop to 10 percent or lower in spaces that are heated by forced air furnaces, even ones with added humidifiers. This indoor home humidity is drier than the average humidity level in Death Valley, Arizona. Home indoor humidification at a minimum of 40 percent is particularly important during the winter months. I have also written articles regarding herbs for the respiratory passages and system such as mullein leaf and/or flower tea, and I routinely recommended essential oil inhalers such as Swiss Olbas oil. I frequently recommend castor oil for the treatment of hyper-dry nasal passages. When castor oil is used for this purpose, it is best to dilute it with another oil such
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as safflower olive, coconut, or almond oil and perhaps with a drop or two of an added essential oil such as rose, germanium, myrrh, frankincense, or chamomile. This oil blend is then gently applied to irritated nasal passages with a cotton swab or bud. Check with your natural health care provider regarding the advisability of this recommendation and avoid the use of any substances you know or suspect that you are allergic to. If you want to try castor oil for the purpose that I have suggested, simply put a small amount of the oil on a cotton swab and rub it around the inside of your nostrils. It is not unusual to feel or taste the oil moving down your throat a few minutes to a few hours after you have applied it. It is not an unpleasant sensation, and it means that the castor oil and your body are doing their job. If this sensation does bother you consider having a warm cup of Mullein tea which is also beneficial to the entire respiratory tract and its passages. What would be the expected benefits of using a small amount of Castor oil on a cotton swab or bud and applying the oil to the nasal passage? Castor oil is a lubricant and a humectant. This means that Castor oil increases the moisture content of skin and mucous membranes preventing them from drying out, reducing dryness, irritation, and inflammation. We have already mentioned that Castor oil is used to increase white blood cells and immune responses. Castor oil is also sticky, like your natural mucous, and it traps viruses and bacteria and kills them on contact. If you are experiencing any of the nasal or respiratory passage symptoms mentioned in this booklet you might also consider increasing your consumption of foods high in zinc like squash, sweet potatoes, lentils, and beans, as well as foods high in beta carotene like kale, spinach, carrots, and red, orange, and yellow peppers. It is always better to heal from within. If you know that you are allergic to a food or herb do not use it and it is always best to consult with a qualified naturopath or holistic health care provider.
Castor Oil Packs as Part of a Comprehensive Treatment Protocol – In manual medicine, herbal medicine, naturopathy, or holistic health care we rarely use castor oil packs as a stand-alone treatment or therapy, rather they are utilized as one step in a comprehensive treatment protocol. A comprehensive treatment protocol may include the following steps and procedures: 1. Assessment of the problem. 2. Identification of the cause of the problem. 3. Determination of the best course of action and treatment for the problem.
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4. Delivery of manual therapy if determined to be appropriate. 5. Utilization of a therapeutic modality such as a castor oil pack. 6. The presentation of dietary and/or nutritional supplement recommendations. 7. The presentation of herbal medicine recommendations and instructions. 8. Instructions regarding therapeutic exercises 9. Instructions regarding home care procedures. 10. Scheduling for reassessment and evaluation.
Medical Research and Castor Oil – It should come as no surprise that modern scientific research is lacking for the use of castor oil. The argument for the use of castor oil is primarily based on over 5000 years of its effective use worldwide. As such, the empirical evidence supporting its use medically is significant. Castor oil is approved by the German Commission E for two uses as a natural laxative to relieve temporary constipation and for treating skin inflammation caused by bacteria. Castor oil has antimicrobial properties that may help protect against certain types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The only FDA approved use of castor oil in the United States is as a laxative for constipation. Castor oil works as a laxative by stimulating the smooth muscle cells of your intestinal walls to contract and push out stool, this process is called peristalsis. The ricinoleic molecule in castor oil, the main fatty acid in castor oil, binds to receptors on these muscle cells and triggers their contraction. Castor oil is a type of stimulant laxative, which means it causes the bowel to move, squeeze, and contract harder than usual. Castor oil has been used to assist with and ease labor and delivery during childbirth. A survey performed in 1999 found that over ninety percent of midwives in the U.S. used it to induce labor. A randomized, double-blind, comparative clinical study was conducted to compare the safety and efficacy of castor oil with diclofenac sodium in patients with knee osteoarthritis and the study found that after the completion of four weeks of treatment both drugs were significantly effective in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and adverse drug reactions were significant with diclofenac sodium, but there were no adverse effects reported with castor oil. This study demonstrated that castor oil can be used as an effective therapy in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
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There are several medical studies that have investigated the benefits of castor oil. A study published in the Journal of Naturopathic Medicine found that castor oil packs can help reduce pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis. A review published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that castor oil can help reduce inflammation and pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that castor oil can help reduce the severity of constipation in people with irritable bowel syndrome or IBS-C.
The Chemical Composition of Castor Oil – Castor oil contains triglyceride fatty acids that are well-known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties. This high concentration of these unsaturated fatty acids is thought to be responsible for castor oil's remarkable immune system stimulating properties. The chemical composition of castor oil is unique due to its high concentration of ricinoleic acid, which constitutes about 85 to 95 percent of the oil's composition. The fatty acid profile also includes other compounds such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, and stearic acid, albeit in much smaller proportions. The following list highlights the average chemical composition of castor seed oil and its fatty acids: Ricinoleic acid, 85-95% Ricinoleic acid is a fatty acid that is found in castor oil. It is an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid and a hydroxy acid. Ricinoleic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also a good source of vitamin E, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. The chemical formula of ricinoleic acid is C18H34O3, and its molar mass is 298.461 g/mol 2. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that ricinoleic acid has potential as an anti-inflammatory agent and can be used to treat conditions such as arthritis, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Another study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that ricinoleic acid can help to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Oleic acid, 2-6% Oleic acid is a fatty acid that occurs naturally in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is an odorless, colorless oil, although commercial samples may be yellowish. In chemical terms, oleic acid is classified as a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, abbreviated with a lipid number of 18:1 cis-9, and a main product of Δ9-desaturase. Oleic acid is the most common fatty acid in nature. It is found in fats (triglycerides), the phospholipids that make
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membranes, cholesterol esters, and wax esters. The salts and esters of oleic acid are called oleates. Oleic acid is believed to have several health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, preventing heart disease, treating multiple sclerosis, and lowering cholesterol levels. Linoleic acid, 1-5% Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that is essential for human health. It is a colorless liquid that is virtually insoluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents. Linoleic acid is the most common type of omega-6 fatty acid, and it is found in many nuts, seeds, and refined vegetable oils. It is an important part of a healthy diet and is particularly beneficial for the immune system and metabolism. α-Linolenic acid, 0.5-1% Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid that is found in nuts such as walnuts. It is necessary for normal human growth and development. ALA is thought to decrease the risk of heart disease by helping to maintain normal heart rhythm and pumping. It might also reduce blood clots. Stearic acid, 0.5-1% Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid with an 18-carbon chain. It is a soft waxy solid with the formula CH3(CH2)16CO2H. Stearic acid is found in many animal and vegetable fats, but is usually higher in animal fat than vegetable fat. Palmitic acid, 0.5-1% Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid with an 18-carbon chain. Its chemical formula is C16H32O2, and its molar mass is 256.430 g/mol. Palmitic acid is the most common saturated fatty acid found in animals, plants, and microorganisms. It is found in many animal and vegetable fats, but is usually higher in animal fat than vegetable fat. Dihydroxy stearic acid, 0.3-0.5% Dihydroxy stearic acid is a hydroxy-fatty acid that is formally derived from stearic acid by hydroxy substitution at positions 9 and 10 1. It is also known as glycolic stearic acid and consists of two alcohol groups and a carboxylic group in the long hydrocarbon chains.
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Various other naturally occurring organic acids are also present in castor oil, however, not much is known about their therapeutic properties or effects. The percentage of these other compounds is around 0.2-0.5%.
Expanding Upon the Clinical Use of Castor Oil Packs – In this booklet I have highlighted and described several beneficial uses of castor oil and castor oil packs but there are many other clinical uses. I have already suggested that castor oil and castor oil packs may be used for the treatment of scar tissue and adhesions including postsurgical scars such as those caused by joint replacement surgery, acute respiratory track irritation, infections, and inflammation as well as many musculoskeletal and joint conditions such as osteoarthritis. In addition, castor oil packs can be a very beneficial part of any systematic health care program to enhance a weakened immune system, to modulate the parasympathetic nervous system, for the topical treatment of cysts, skin abscesses, or boils, to decrease general and localized inflammation and pain in the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems as well as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of lymphedema and lymphedema related skin infections and ulcers.
Several Examples of Using Castor Oil Packs for Organ and Organ System Stimulation, Modulation, and Detoxification The Respiratory and Lung Castor Oil Pack Let’s briefly review the use of topical castor oil packs applied to the anterior thoracic region and over the lungs. A respiratory castor oil pack can help cleanse and detoxify the lungs by stimulating waste elimination and increasing blood lymphatic circulation. According to some sources, a castor oil pack applied over the lungs can have the following physiological effects: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
It can increase regional blood flow. It can increase lymphatic drainage. It can modulate the parasympathetic nervous system. It can increase white blood cell activity in the region and systematically. It can break up mucous congestion and toxins in the lungs and airways. It can reduce inflammation and swelling in the lung tissues. It can support the cardiovascular circulatory system and tissue oxygenation. It can enhance the immune system and fight infections.
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In the hands of a skilled practitioner a castor oil pack is not used by itself, but is combined with other therapeutic modalities and methods, including manual therapy, cupping, dietary changes, supplementation, and herbal medicine both internal and external. An example of an herb that could be used in combination with a castor oil pack is Chinese mugwort mixed with castor oil into a paste. In addition, volatile essential oils may be added to castor oil such as peppermint and eucalyptus oil.
The Abdominal Castor Oil Pack Castor oil packs on the abdomen will relax the abdominal muscles and promote parasympathetic, mesenteric, and vagus nerve activity. These are all neurological aspects of normal digestive function. Castor oil packs are used in clinical therapy for indigestion, constipation, bloating, and cramping as well as to stimulate digestion. Castor oil packs are recommended or used when treating conditions with symptoms of abdominal or anal bleeding, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea which is classified as IBS-D and/or called colitis. Abdominal castor oil packs are said to have the following benefits: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Increase digestive activity and peristalsis. Improve bowel movements and empty the stomach. Relieve constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, cramping, and discomfort. Increase liver metabolism and gallbladder emptying.
The Pelvic Castor Oil Pack In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) castor oil packs are used in the treatment of pelvic pain, cramping, and/or blood stagnation in the uterus which are thought to cause fibroids, endometriosis, and/or painful periods with clots. A castor oil pack helps detoxify the uterine environment, reduce inflammation, promote the circulation of fresh oxygenated blood to the uterine lining, promote circulation to the ovaries, and to prevent a build-up of endometrial tissues as well as softening and resolving endometriosis, internal scarring, and fibroids. As in all the examples provided in this booklet on the use of castor oil and castor oil packs, when treating pelvic conditions, the castor oil and castor oil packs are not used as a standalone therapy but are combined with dietary and exercise recommendations and herbal medicines.
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Contraindications to the Use of a Castor Oil Pack, Essential Oils, and/or Medicated Oils – If you know you have sensitive skin or skin allergies or have ever experienced a reaction to a plant or seed oil, essential oil, and/or cosmetics applied to your skin then utilize caution when applying an oil or essential oil to your skin. If you consider yourself to have sensitive skin that reacts to cosmetics, shampoos, hair conditioners, laundry soaps, detergents, perfumes, colognes, or chemicals that have come into contact with your skin then use caution in using a castor oil pack or any essential oil on your skin. If you have a history of reacting to topical applications or essential oils, you can perform a skin patch test by applying a small amount of oil to your skin and waiting several hours to see if you get a skin reaction. If you get a skin reaction such as prolonged, redness, itchiness, burning, bumps on the skin, hives, or blistering do not use the substance that caused the reaction. It is always best to consult with a trained professional health care provider or consultant knowledgeable about the use of oils, essential oils, medicated oils, and/or herbs before trying these treatments. To further elaborate on the contraindications and cautions when using essential oils externally, consider the following: Skin sensitivity: Some essential oils can cause skin irritation, inflammation, or allergic reactions. To avoid this, always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin and perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Avoid using essential oils in the eyes, around the eyes, mucous membranes, or damaged skin. Some citrus oils, such as lemon, lime, and orange, can also cause photosensitivity, which means they can increase the risk of sunburn or skin damage when exposed to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure for at least twelve hours after using these oils on the skin. Medical conditions: Some essential oils can interfere with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems, or pregnancy. For example, some oils, such as sage, hyssop, rosemary, and thyme, can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy, or raise blood pressure in people with hypertension. Some oils, such as fennel, myrrh, and clary sage, can affect hormone levels and cause uterine contractions in pregnant women, or reduce milk supply in nursing mothers. Some oils, such as juniper, can be toxic to the kidneys if used excessively or for a long time. Internal use: Essential oils are not meant to be ingested and they can trigger severe allergic reactions. Swallowing essential oils can cause serious harm, such as chemical burns to mucosal tissues, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage, or even death. Some oils, such as wintergreen, can be fatal even in small doses. Therefore, never ingest essential oils, and keep them away from children and pets.
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Aromatherapy: Essential oils can be used for aromatherapy, which is the inhalation of their vapors or aromas for therapeutic purposes. However, aromatherapy can also have some side effects, such as allergic reactions headaches, nausea, dizziness, or asthma attacks. To avoid this, use essential oils in a well-ventilated area, and limit the exposure time to no more than thirty minutes at a time. Avoid using essential oils that can trigger allergies, such as chamomile, or that can irritate the respiratory system, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or pine. If you have asthma, consult your doctor before using essential oils for aromatherapy. Essential oils can be beneficial for many aspects of health and wellness, but they should be used with respect and knowledge. Always follow the safety guidelines and precautions and seek professional advice if you have any doubts or concerns. Remember, less is more when it comes to essential oils.
Homeopathic Ricinus Communis Use Homeopathy is a medical system that was developed in Germany more than 200 years ago. It is based on two theories: Like cures like, the notion that a disease can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people and Law of minimum dose, a theory that the lower the dose of the medication, the greater its effectiveness. Homeopathic products are made from plants, minerals, or animal substances. They are often made as sugar pellets to be placed under the tongue, and can also be in other forms, such as ointments, gels, drops, creams, and tablets. Treatments in homeopathy are individualized or tailored to each person and are often based on clinical patterns of signs and symptoms that are different from those of conventional medicine. Homeopathy is used by an estimated 6 million people in the United States. Most adults who use homeopathic products self-prescribe them for colds and musculoskeletal pain. Homeopathic Ricinus communis, also known as the castor oil plant, is used to alleviate intense nausea and diarrhea. It is administered in the form of a homeopathic medicine. Here is a description of how homeopathic Ricinus communis is typically used: Acquire the homeopathic medication: Ricinus communis can be purchased from a homeopathic retailer or online store. Make sure the pellets are made from the active ingredient, Ricinus communis, and not a similar-sounding plant. Administration: The pellets should be melted in the mouth without solid food or liquids. This method ensures that the medicine is quickly absorbed into the body. Never combine homeopathic medications with caffeinated products or volatile essentials oils like camphor, peppermint, or eucalyptus. Dosage: I routinely use Ricinus communis in 6x potency, but many practitioners recommend it at 30c potency.
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Timing: The pellets can be taken as needed for relief of nausea and/or diarrhea. Storage: Keep the pellets in a cool, dark, dry place. Contraindications: There are no known contraindications for the use of Ricinus communis pellets. However, if you are allergic to castor oil, you should avoid using this medication. Side Effects: There are no known side effects associated with the use of homeopathic Ricinus communis pellets. Interactions: Since no solid food or liquids are required for the administration of homeopathic pellets, you can take them alongside other medications or remedies. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before combining medications. Other Considerations: Homeopathic remedies, including Ricinus communis pellets, should be used responsibly and in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer or a licensed homeopathic practitioner. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Conclusion – In this booklet I have outlined the use of castor oil as a natural remedy that has been used for centuries for various health conditions. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It benefits people with musculoskeletal problems such as inflammation, pain, and arthritis. Castor oil can be applied topically to an affected area, either directly or as a castor oil pack, to reduce musculoskeletal pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can also be used as a massage oil to improve blood circulation and relax the muscles. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that have different therapeutic effects, such as calming, stimulating, or healing. Essential oils can be used for aromatherapy, massage, or topical application. Some common essential oils are lavender, peppermint, tea tree, rosemary, and eucalyptus. It is important to remember that essential oils are not without side effects and contraindications. Refer to the section of this booklet that outlines the cautions, side effects, and contraindications of essential oils. Combining castor oil with essential oils can create a medicated oil that can enhance the benefits of both. Castor oil acts as a carrier oil that dilutes and delivers the essential oils to the skin. Essential oils add their specific properties and aroma to the castor oil, making it more effective and pleasant to use. Castor oil is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a health care professional. Castor oil may have some side effects, such as allergic reactions, skin irritation, or diarrhea, especially if taken orally or used in large amounts. Castor oil is not recommended for pregnant women, as it may induce labor or cause miscarriage. Castor oil is a simple, effective, and inexpensive way to improve musculoskeletal
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health and well-being. If you have any chronic or serious musculoskeletal condition, consult your health care provider before using castor oil or any other therapy.
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About the Author: Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is the author of many books, most of them in the area of health science. In 1980 he founded the Blue Heron Academy, a state licensed vocational school that offers classes in traditional and conventional health care and has trained over 14,000 students. Dr. Lawton is a licensed chiropractor, licensed naprapath, and a licensed acupuncturist and a graduate of the National College of Naprapathic Medicine, the National University of Health Sciences, and the International Medical Acupuncture Association. All rights reserved. No part of this program or its content shall be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from Dr. Gregory T. Lawton, the American Manual Medicine Association, and American Health Source, Incorporated. Gregory T. Lawton, D.N., D.C., L.Ac., D.Ac. The Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences 2040 Raybrook SE, Suite 104 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546 888-285-9989 Toll Free 616-285-9999 616-956-7777 www.blueheronacademy.com info@blueheronacademy.com Every effort has been made to ensure that permission has been obtained for use of text references herein. If any required acknowledgement has been omitted or any rights overlooked, please notify the publisher and omissions will be rectified in future editions.