However, today, it is regaining its prominence as an effective laxative, an effective solution for enhancing hair and skin health and for colon cleansing, constipation relief and an agent to induce labor. A castor oil enema is a go-to solution in many households and is preferred over other available options. Applying castor oil to skin and hair is also followed by many to retain a youthful look and to promote hair growth. In this article, we will be discussing castor oil, how it can act as a laxative, and how you can use castor oil enema to ease constipation. Continue reading to know more.
Castor Oil As Laxative
Castor oil’s role as a laxative has attracted a lot of attention. You may be able to naturally treat digestive issues like constipation using castor oil. It soothes and eases our bowel movement, forcing the stool to squeeze out easily (1). Scientists wanted to find out how castor oil works for detoxification,and why it is such an effective laxative. The research has identified that the active element is ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that makes up about 90% of castor oil, binds to the muscle cells on the walls of the intestines and causes contractions (2). The scientific team also published its results in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
How Can You Use Castor Oil As A Laxative?
Castor oil can be taken by mouth or in an enema through the rectum.
1. By Mouth:
2. In An Enema:
An oil enema can be tad messier than a regular enema, but just follow our advice to reduce the risk of spills and also derive the maximum benefits from your castor oil enema:
How Often Should You Take A Castor Oil Enema?
According to anecdotal evidence, you can go for it for three consecutive days without any problems. But we recommend that you ask your doctor and do as he says.
Precautions:
Do not take a castor oil enema if you are suffering from:
Cold or flu Indigestion or digestive health issues Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or intestinal inflammation Diabetes Diarrhea Obesity Consumption of poison
Benefits Of Castor Oil Enema
There are multiple castor oil benefits, but let’s focus on how it can ease constipation. The ricinoleic acid in it causes contractions in the walls of the intestines that help push the fecal matter out as stools. This helps relieve constipation. Castor oil also has the property to prevent the absorption of water from the intestines and improve intestinal permeability (3). This ensures easier passage of the waste. Its other castor oil enema benefits include (4), (5):
Softens stools Useful to treat arthritis Helpful in uterine contraction Alleviates back pain Reduces menstrual cramps Controls ‘Vata’
A medical professional and blogger shared her experience employing a 15-day castor oil enema for her neuropathy issues. She writes, “Today, I did the castor oil orally, castor oil enema 5 hours later and then one more coffee enema in the evening (3 total). Moved my bowels many many times today and yes, the burning anus continues although nothing like unlucky day #13. But, my point is that all the neurology symptoms are 100% gone all day today! And, I need to wait to see if I have my mini-seizure tomorrow morning — cuz it only seems to happen on my non-castor (ie: toxic) day (i).” More research is warranted in this regard as most of these benefits are based on anecdotal evidence. Have you ever used castor oil? If so, what do you think of it? Do you know any castor oil enema recipes? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section! Learn how to prepare a castor oil enema at home for natural relief and cleansing. Take control of your health and watch the video to discover the step-by-step process. Scroll down to watch the video. How long does it take a castor oil enema to work? Anecdotal evidence suggests that a castor oil enema takes anywhere between 2 to 6 hours to work. However, in most cases, it helps relieve constipation within 3 hours. How long do you retain an oil enema? The duration for which you need to retain or hold an enema within your body depends on the oil being used. In the case of castor oil, you need to hold it for 30 minutes or so. What are some common misconceptions about castor oil enemas? There are several common misconceptions about castor oil enemas. They include:
Castor oil enemas are suitable for everyone Castor oil enemas have no adverse reactions Castor oil enemas are very easy to use
How can I choose the right type of enema kit for a castor oil enema? Always select the one that is specially designed for castor oil enema with an easy-to-use nozzle tip and clear instructions on the package. Can a castor oil enema help with weight loss or other health concerns? There is currently no scientific evidence that suggests that castor oil enema aids in weight loss. What are the potential side effects of a castor oil enema? Anecdotal evidence suggests that castor oil enema may cause rectal damage, cramping, nausea, or vomiting. However, there is limited research available in this regard. How can I enhance the benefits of a castor oil enema with diet and lifestyle changes? Castor oil enemas can be beneficial for treating constipation and other digestive problems, but they work best in conjunction with a balanced diet and lifestyle. Drink plenty of water, consume fiber-rich foods, and regularly exercise to enhance its benefits. Can a castor oil enema be used in conjunction with other therapies? Castor oil enemas may be used in addition to other treatments. However, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider before using them to avoid any side effects.