​​Top Benefits of ​Castor Oil in the Belly Button 

Introduction

​​​Applying castor oil to the belly button has been a traditional practice believed to offer various health benefits and has been used in certain cultures since ancient times. In this article, we will explore the origin of castor oil, its traditional uses, how it is thought to work, and the potential effects it may have on health. We will also look at how it may be absorbed through the belly button, possible side effects, and the correct method of application. Finally, we will address some commonly asked questions on the topic. 

Origins of Castor Oil

Castor Oil in Ancient Medicine 

Castor oil is made from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, which is native to parts of Africa and the Mediterranean region. This vegetable oil has a long history of use in traditional medicine and home remedies. Historical records suggest that castor oil was used as early as 4000 BC in ancient Egypt. It was also known to be used by classical civilisations such as the Greeks and Romans, who valued it for its various applications in health and wellness¹.  

The Science Behind Castor Oil

​​​Chemical Composition 

• Ricinoleic Acid: The unique properties of castor oil are largely due to its composition. Approximately 90% of castor oil consists of ricinoleic acid, a rare type of fatty acid not commonly found in other vegetable oils. It is this high concentration of ricinoleic acid that distinguishes castor oil and is believed to contribute to many of its traditional uses and potential health effects³.  
• Fatty Acids and Triglycerides: These have been seen to boost skin moisture and improve barrier function. In addition to ricinoleic acid, castor oil contains several other fatty acids, including oleic acid (approximately 3%), linoleic acid (around 4%), and stearic acid (about 1%). It also contains triglycerides, which are known to help enhance skin hydration and support the skin’s natural barrier function. These components contribute to castor oil’s traditional use in skincare and wellness practices³. 
• Beneficial Properties: Castor oil’s high ricinoleic acid content is thought to contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may also support immune function and help protect against certain bacteria and fungi. These qualities have made it a popular choice in traditional health practices, though further research is needed to confirm its effects⁴.  

How Does Castor Oil Get Absorbed Through the Belly Button? 

• The Navel as a Gateway to the Body: Putting castor oil on the belly button allows the body to absorb its active ingredients. Castor oil gets absorbed on the skin and then enters the blood vessels. The belly button has many blood vessels, making it a suitable site for absorption.   

​​​Potential Benefits of Castor Oil in the Belly Button

​​​1. Pain Relief 

• Menstrual Cramps: A lot of women deal with pain from menstrual cramps each month. Castor oil may decrease inflammation and thus make blood flow to the pelvic area better, easing the pain linked to menstrual cramps^5,6.^  
• Joint and Muscle Pain: Castor oil’s potential to reduce inflammation and reduce pain makes joint and muscle pain easier to bear. By applying oil straight on the belly button,  may ease swelling and pain⁷. 

2. Digestive System Support 

• Constipation relief: As a traditional remedy for constipation, castor oil is believed to support bowel movements by increasing fluid levels in the intestines and promoting smooth muscle contractions⁸. However, castor oil should only be used for short-term relief and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Prolonged use may lead to side effects such as diarrhoea and disturbances in electrolyte balance. 
• Improving gut health: Castor oil may support the gut in a number of ways. It is believed to help create a balanced gut environment, encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria, and reduce inflammation. These effects may contribute to improved nutrient absorption and overall gut function. However, more scientific evidence is needed to confirm these potential benefits⁹.  

3. Detoxification Support 

• Soothing Anxiety: Using castor oil may help improve sleep and lower anxiety¹⁰. The calming properties of the oil may ease muscle strain, reduce stress levels, and create a restful setting for the mind and body.  

It is to be noted that there is ongoing research being done to illustrate all the above-mentioned benefits. Before incorporating castor oil for any of the above uses, it is always advised to consult with a healthcare provider.   

In my experience, some individuals use castor oil as part of their skincare routine, particularly for dry skin and the appearance of wrinkles. As an occlusive moisturiser, castor oil may help retain moisture by forming a protective barrier on the skin, which can support hydration in dry areas. 

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Caution and Possible Side Effects

Allergic Reactions 

• Testing for Skin Sensitivity: Castor oil can trigger allergic reactions when applied topically.¹ Before applying castor oil to the belly button, it is advisable to carry out a patch test to check for any allergic reaction. Apply a small amount of castor oil to the inside of your wrist and wait for 24 hours. If there is no redness, itching, or irritation during this period, it is generally considered safe to proceed with use. 

Interaction with Medications 

As with any natural remedy, it is important to consult your doctor before using castor oil, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medication. Castor oil may interact with certain medicines, potentially leading to unwanted side effects. Seeking professional medical advice helps ensure safe and appropriate use, especially when incorporating it into your health routine. 

I have observed that some people use castor oil topically on the scalp as a natural hair conditioner, often to help with dandruff and to enhance hair shine. Some studies¹¹ suggest that castor oil may improve the lustre of hair, making it appear healthier and more nourished. However, individual results may vary, and further research is needed to fully understand its effects on scalp and hair health. 

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

How to Apply Castor Oil to Your Belly Button?

1. Preparing the Oil 

• Use of cold-pressed castor oil: It is important to use high-quality, cold-pressed castor oil when applying to the belly button. Cold-pressed castor oil is extracted without the use of heat, helping to preserve its natural beneficial components. To ensure the best quality, it is advisable to choose well-established brands and opt for organic options where possible. 

2. Application Process 

• Proper dosage and consistency: To apply castor oil to the belly button, begin by warming a small amount of the oil between your fingers. Warm oil tends to feel more soothing on the skin and may be absorbed more comfortably by the body. Gently massage the oil into the belly button and the surrounding area using circular motions. This technique can help promote relaxation and may support better absorption of the oil. 
• Massage techniques: Using gentle pressure during the massage may help stimulate blood circulation and support absorption. For best results, this practice can be done daily, ideally before bedtime. Applying the oil at night allows it to remain on the skin and take effect while you sleep. 

3. Storage and Hygiene 

Keep your castor oil in a cool, dark place to help preserve its quality and purity. Before applying the oil, ensure your hands are clean and that the belly button area is free from dirt or bacteria. Proper hygiene helps prevent contamination and supports better absorption of the oil. 

Researchers believe that castor oil may be suitable to apply on wounds due to its antimicrobial qualities. Castor oil’s potassium salt is found to help with infection and support recovery. However, more studies are needed to confirm its use. 

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

Conclusion

Applying castor oil on the belly button has many potential health benefits. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, support relief from pain, help with digestion, strengthen immunity, assist with detoxification, and improve sleep. However, while these uses are common in traditional practices, further scientific research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before including castor oil in your wellness routine. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Alookaran J, Tripp J. Castor Oil. [Updated 2024 May 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551626/   

2. Bu ZJ, Liu YN, Shahjalal M, Zheng YY, Liu CJ, Ye MM, et al. Comparative effectiveness and safety of Chinese medicine belly button application for childhood diarrhea: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Pediatr. 2023 Aug 4;11:1180694. doi: 10.3389/fped.2023.1180694. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10436529/  

3. Patel VR, Dumancas GG, Kasi Viswanath LC, Maples R, Subong BJ. Castor Oil: Properties, Uses, and Optimization of Processing Parameters in Commercial Production. Lipid Insights. 2016 Sep 7;9:1-12. doi: 10.4137/LPI.S40233. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5015816/   
4. Yeboah A, Ying S, Lu J, Xie Y, et al. Castor oil (Ricinus communis): a review on the chemical composition and physicochemical properties. Food Sci Technol (Campinas). 2020;41(AHEAD). doi:10.1590/fst.19620. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/345766202_Castor_oil_Ricinus_communis_a_review_on_the_chemical_composition_and_physicochemical_properties  
5. Marwat SK, Rehman F, Khan EA, Baloch MS, Sadiq M, Ullah I, Javaria S, Shaheen S. Review – Ricinus cmmunis – Ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological activities. Pak J Pharm Sci. 2017 Sep;30(5):1815-1827. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084706/  
6. Singh A, Chawla S. Formulation and evaluation of herbal menstrual pain relief tablet. Int J Creat Res Thoughts. 2024 Jun;12(6):b569. Available from: https://ijcrt.org/papers/IJCRT2406167.pdf  
7. Vieira C, Evangelista S, Cirillo R, Lippi A, Maggi CA, Manzini S. Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflamm. 2000;9(5):223-8. doi: 10.1080/09629350020025737. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1781768/  
8. Arslan GG, Eşer I. An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011 Feb;17(1):58-62. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.04.004. Epub 2010 May 18. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21168117/  
9. Moita VHC, Duarte ME, da Silva SN, Kim SW. Supplemental Effects of Functional Oils on the Modulation of Mucosa-Associated Microbiota, Intestinal Health, and Growth Performance of Nursery Pigs. Animals (Basel). 2021 May 28;11(6):1591. doi: 10.3390/ani11061591. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8230055/  
10. Rusu M., Csedo C., Marcus G., Lupuliasa D. Preclinical study on the hair growth and regeneration of external use lotions containing castor oil (Ricini oleum) in rabbits. Farmacia. 2008;56:507–512. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/294629024_Preclinical_study_on_the_hairgrowth_and_regeneration_of_external_use_lotions_containing_castor_oil_Ricini_Oleum_in_rabbits
11. Phong C, Lee V, Yale K, Sung C, Mesinkovska N. Coconut, castor, and argan oil for hair in skin of color patients: a systematic review. PubMed. 2022 [cited 2025 Jun 10]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816075/

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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