If you’ve ever had a massage session with me and noticed a thick, slightly sticky oil with an earthy scent—there’s a good chance it was castor oil. I use it all the time to soften scar tissue, loosen achy joints, and calm pelvic discomfort such as PMS, endometriosis, PCOS-related pain, or recovery after a miscarriage.

Castor oil has been a wellness staple for centuries, but the best part is that modern research now helps explain why it works. Below I explain what recent studies (2019–2025) tell us—and how you can use castor oil at home between visits.

Scar Tissue That Heals Softer & Moves Better

Whether it’s from surgery, injury, or a C-section, scar tissue can feel stiff or “stuck.” Massage helps, but when I blend in castor oil the tissue often loosens faster and clients say the tissue and surrounding area moves better.

Recent lab studies show castor-oil–based gels speed wound healing, reduce inflammation, and help new collagen line up neatly. Translation? Scars stay flatter and more flexible.

At-home tip:
Rub in a drop or two of cold-pressed castor oil to fully healed scars once a day. Over time, many people notice the skin becomes smoother and less sensitive.

Happier, Looser Joints for Arthritis

If your knees, hips, or hands feel creaky—especially when it’s damp or cold—castor oil can be surprisingly soothing.

A 2025 clinical trial found that older adults with knee arthritis who used warm castor oil packs saw their pain scores drop from 7/10 to 3.5/10 in just five days!

How I use it in clinic:
I massage castor oil into the joint, cover in paraffin wax then wrap and add deep moist heat to “seal in” the effects. I will allow the castor oil to permeate for 15-20 minutes while I massage muscle groups that support the joint. Once I remove the heat, I will perform gentle joint mobilization techniques for greater range of motion and increase synovial fluid in the joint capsule. (Synovial fluid is a thick, slippery liquid in your joints that cushions bones, reduces friction, and helps them move smoothly.)

Ever hear the phrase “motion is lotion”? The lotion produced by motion is synovial fluid.

DIY version at home:

1. Soak a small cloth in castor oil
2. Place it on the sore joint
3. Add a hot-water bottle or heating pad
4. Relax for 30–45 minutes a few times a week
5. Follow with 2 to 5 minutes of pain free active range of motion (i.e.: if the knee, gently straighten and bend your knee while seated)

Pelvic Support — PMS, Endometriosis, PCOS & Post-Miscarriage

Castor oil packs are one of my favorite gentle tools for pelvic comfort. I often recommend them for:

• PMS and cramps – to ease bloating and reduce spasms
• Endometriosis – to help reduce sharp pelvic pain and inflammation
• PCOS – to support circulation, detox pathways, and hormone balance
• Post-miscarriage recovery – to help the body clear residual tissue and soothe tension (only once bleeding has stopped)

While large clinical trials are still emerging, the results we’re seeing in practice—and smaller case studies—are really promising.

In-clinic:
I place a warm castor oil pack on the abdomen and follow with gentle abdominal or lymphatic massage.

At-home instructions (2–3x a week):

1. Soak a flannel or cotton cloth in cold-pressed castor oil
2. Lay it across the lower abdomen
3. Cover with a towel or wrap, then apply a heat source
4. Rest for 30–45 minutes
5. Wipe off excess oil with a mix of baking soda and warm water

⚠️ Skip castor oil packs if you’re actively bleeding or pregnant and check in with your health provider if unsure.

Why Does Castor Oil Work?

The star compound in castor oil is ricinoleic acid—a unique fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation and calm pain when absorbed through the skin. Think of it as nature’s way of helping your body soothe and soften from the inside out—no pills required.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Always perform a patch test before first use
• Only use externally
• Store in a dark bottle at room temperature or cooler
• Never use on open wounds without medical advice
• Never apply to abdomen if pregnant

Final Thoughts

Castor oil is simple, affordable, and incredibly versatile. Whether I’m using it in a massage to soften scars, calm joints, or support pelvic healing—it offers real results that clients can feel.

If you’re curious about trying it, ask me during your next session. I’ll be happy to guide you through how to use it safely and effectively at home.

References

1. Scholars Journal of Applied Medical Science, 2025 — Castor oil packs reduce arthritis pain
2. Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research, 2024 — Castor oil gel improves wound healing
3. Iranian Journal of Nursing & Midwifery Research, 2022 — Castor oil stimulates uterine contractions (meta-analysis)
4. Comprehensive Review in Medical Sciences, 2021 — Ricinoleic acid reduces inflammation
5. Healthline, 2023 — How castor oil packs help with menstrual pain and detox
6. Journal of Complementary Therapies in Women’s Health, 2021 — PCOS case series shows cycle improvements with castor oil packs and lifestyle changes