When consumed by mouth, castor oil is broken down in the small intestine, releasing ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid in castor oil. The ricinoleic acid is then absorbed by the intestine, stimulating a strong laxative effect ( 2 ). In fact, several studies have shown that castor oil can relieve constipation.

A typical dose might be around 15 milliliters (ml), which is equal to about half an ounce or 3 teaspoons. Some people mix castor oil with another liquid or flavored drink to counteract the strong odor and flavor, including: fruit juice.

Detox-flush of the stomach Here’s how: Do this on an empty stomach (this is very important). Add three tablespoon of medicinal/food grade castor oil to a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, mix and drink up fast. Wait for half an hour. Have one glass of hot water.

Massaging warm castor oil over your abdomen can be an excellent way to relieve the symptoms of menstrual cramps and period pain. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil works as an anti-inflammatory and is an analgesic agent which helps relieve pain.

The Method of Action that the Castor Oil Pack Uses to Liver Detox. The essential fatty acids, in particular the ricinoleic acid that castor oil contains, encourages movement of chemical energy within the body, resulting in a detoxifying effect.

The outer coating (hull) of the castor seed contains a deadly poison that may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dehydration, shock, and even death. Women who are pregnant should consult their provider before consuming castor oil.

Taken orally, large amounts of castor oil can be poisonous. Symptoms of overdose include abdominal cramps, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Use castor oil as directed to avoid unintentional overdose.

According to Dermatologist Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, castor oil is the best oil to enrich your scalp. It contains ricinoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids and therefore when massaged onto the scalp it helps in increasing the blood circulation which improves hair growth.