How to use castor oil to relieve constipation

The article was written by MSc Mai Vien Phuong - Department of Examination & Internal Medicine, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital

Castor oil can be useful as a treatment for occasional constipation, however, it comes with some side effects and is not suitable for everyone.

Castor oil comes from castor beans, people have used this oil as a laxative for thousands of years, but only recently have scientists figured out how it works.
Researchers have found that ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid in castor oil, binds to receptors on the smooth muscle cells of your gut wall. Once ricinoleic acid binds to these receptors, it causes the muscles to contract and push the stool out, just like other stimulant laxatives. Castor oil has a similar effect on the uterus, which is why it is used to induce labor.
There is some evidence that castor oil has a quick-acting and constipation-reducing effect. A 2011 study in older adults with chronic constipation found that the use of castor oil reduced stress and improved symptoms of constipation.

Castor oil is a liquid that you drink, it is usually taken during the day because it works quickly.
The dosage of castor oil used to treat constipation in adults is 15 ml. To lessen the taste, try placing castor oil in the refrigerator for at least an hour to cool. Then, mix it into a full juice glass. You can also purchase flavored castor oil preparations.
Castor oil works very quickly. You should see results within 2 to 6 hours of taking it. Because castor oil works very quickly, it should not be taken before bedtime, as you might with other laxatives.
Like any stimulant laxative, castor oil should not be taken for long periods of time. Over time, it can decrease muscle tone in your intestines and lead to chronic constipation. If you continue to be constipated, see your doctor.

Castor oil is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for pregnant women because castor oil can cause the uterus to contract.
It is also not recommended for routine use in children under 12 years of age. If you want to give your child castor oil, ask your pediatrician first.
In adults over 60, castor oil can make bowel problems worse if it is used for a long time. It can also reduce the amount of potassium in your body.
You may need to avoid castor oil if you take certain medications, including:
Diuretics, which can also reduce the amount of potassium in your body Antibiotics, including tetracyclines Bone drugs Blood thinners Cardiovascular Medicines In addition to what many people consider an unpleasant taste, castor oil has a number of side effects. Like other stimulant laxatives, it can cause cramping and diarrhea. It can also reduce the absorption of nutrients in your gut.
Castor oil is also not recommended as a treatment for persistent constipation. If you're chronically constipated and can't get relief, talk to your doctor about additional treatment options.

References:
Arsian GG, et al. (2011). An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly [Abstract]. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21168117 Definition and facts for constipation. (2018). niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/digestive-diseases/constipation/Pages/definition-facts.aspx Laxatives: OTC Products for Constipation. (2018). familydoctor.org/laxatives-otc-products-for-constipation/ Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Constipation. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253 Portalatin M, et al. (2012). Medical management of constipation. Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, 25(1), 12-19. DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1301754 Williams SCP. (2012). Just a spoonful of castor oil. sciencemag.org/news/2012/05/just-spoonful-castor-oil