Menstrual cramps can be debilitating. According to Ayurveda, one should read, rest, and relax during their period. Unfortunately, in our fast paced western society, we are not afforded this rest time. BUT….we have our Ayurvedic arsenal to gain power over our cramps and find relief! A castor oil pack is a potent way to treat abdominal cramping and break up stagnation during menstruation. Apply a castor oil pack up to twice a day at the onset of menses. Ginger tea is also a potent treatment for cramps. If PMS symptoms are severe, take 2-4 ounces of aloe juice 2x per day one week before the bleeding is expected.

To do your at home castor oil pack, you’ll need the following ::

• 1-2 ounces organic caster oil
• 2 foot sheet of plastic wrap
• hot water bottle or hot water bag
• old bath towel

Directions ::

Warm the caster oil slightly by placing the bottle of caster oil in a cup or pot of hot water for a few minutes. The oil should be slightly warmer than body temperature. It does not need to be hot.

Find a comfortable place where you can relax for about 15 - 20 minutes.

Massage the abdomen with the warm castor oil using slow clockwise circular movements and swift downward strokes. Use moderate pressure.

Place the plastic wrap over the castor oil.

Place the towel over the plastic wrap.

Place the warm water bottle or hot water bag over the towel.

Stay in this position for 15 - 20 minutes. Play relaxing music, watch TV, or light candles. Breath calmly.

Benefits and actions of castor oil ::

Castor oil is a powerful substance that penetrates the skin, joints, and muscles. It is used externally for inflammation, cysts, tumors, lumps, congestion, burning eyes, eczema, and psoriasis. Castor oil is considered the king of medicinals for curing data and arthritic diseases. It is warm, oily, catabolic, heavy, and acts as a laxative.

Energetics of castor oil ::

Rasa - sweet, pungent, astringent

Virya - heating

Vipaka - sweet

Effect on dosha - VPK-, P+ in excess

Effect of tissues and channels - plasma, blood, muscle, fat, digestive, excretory, circulatory