Castor Oil Packs for Back Pain
Castor oil is known for its medicinal properties. A Castor oil pack is made by infusing several layers of cotton or wool flannel with Castor oil, applying it to the body strategically, and placing a heating pad over the pack.
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Lower Back Pain
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In the United States, low back pain affects 60 to 80 percent of the population and is the leading cause of disability in individuals under 45 years of age. Back pain is the second most common reason Americans seek care from their primary physicians.
How To Use
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Castor oil packs can be applied directly to the skin at the affected area. Place plastic bags under the body to prevent oil from staining bedclothes. Place another plastic bag over the Castor oil pack, then a warm heating pad over the plastic. Let pack remain for 30 to 60 minutes. Repeat over a three day period.
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How They Work
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Castor oil packs are believed to work in a similar fashion to acupuncture. The pack, when placed on the skin, increases circulation and elimination. This promotes the healing of the tissues underneath the skin.
An Edgar Cayce Remedy
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The use of Castor oil packs was made popular by Edgar Cayce, famous American psychic, who was known as the Sleeping Prophet. In the 1960's Dr. William McCarey did clinical testing with Castor oil packs and wrote the book "The Oil That Heals".
Tip
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If you do not have a heating pad, you can use a towel fresh out of your washer. This will have the moisture equally distributed on it. Place the towel in your dryer on high for about 10 to 12 minutes. This will warm the towel sufficiently to place over the Castor oil pack.
Warning
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Castor oil should not be applied to broken skin.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Robby!
