By the Natural Harmony Reproductive Health Team
If you’ve been around here long enough, you know we love a low-tech wellness tool with high-impact benefits, and castor oil packs are one of our favorites. Whether you’re supporting hormone balance, digestion, or detoxification, this simple therapy has stood the test of time.
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to use the Queen of the Thrones castor oil pack system and why it’s earned a regular spot in our fertility and digestive care plans.
First Things First: Why Castor Oil Packs?
Castor oil, made from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has a long history of therapeutic use. When applied externally with gentle heat and left on for a period of time, it’s believed to:
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Increase circulation to the pelvis and abdomen
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Support lymphatic drainage and gentle detox
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Calm inflammation
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Soothe the nervous system
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Relieve digestive stagnation and constipation
Why We Recommend Castor Oil Packs
Used consistently, castor oil packs can support circulation, lymphatic flow, reduced inflammation, and pelvic health. Many of our patients also find they ease cramps, bloating and constipation.
The challenge? Traditional packs are messy, awkward, and hard to stick with. Between the oil, the plastic wrap, and the cleanup, they can feel like more trouble than they’re worth.
That’s why we often recommend Queen of the Thrones®. Their pre-sewn, organic cotton and wool flannel pack has a leak-resistant outer layer and adjustable straps, making it easy to wear while you relax, move around, or even sleep. Unlike traditional wraps, you don’t need to add heat – these packs are designed to work with your body’s own warmth.
You can also DIY your own version with high-quality organic castor oil (ideally in a glass bottle) and a flannel cloth. For better absorption, you may place a heating pad or hot water bottle on top. Just know this method tends to be messier and may stain clothing or bedding, so protect your setup with an old towel.
When to Use Castor Oil Packs
For Cycle Support:
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Best window: After your period but before ovulation
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Use 3-4 nights per week for 45-60 minutes or overnight
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Avoid during your period or after ovulation if you’re trying to conceive
For Digestion:
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Use anytime bloating, constipation, or sluggish digestion flares up
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3-5 times a week for best results
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Okay to use during any phase of your cycle unless you’re actively TTC (in that case, stick to pre-ovulation)
How to Use the Pack (Step-by-Step)
Gather your materials
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Queen of the Thrones® pre-sewn wrap and organic, hexane-free castor oil, or if DIY, a flannel cloth, organic castor oil (ideally in a glass bottle), plastic wrap (optional), and a heating pad or hot water bottle
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Old towel or comfy clothes you don’t mind oiling up (castor oil stains!)
Apply the oil
Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of castor oil onto the inside of the pack (the soft side that touches your skin). Avoid over-saturating – the fabric will absorb more oil over time.
Place it on your body
Position the pack over your abdomen, just below the ribcage and above the pubic bone, so it covers your digestive and reproductive organs.
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With Queen of the Thrones®, simply tie the wrap snugly around your abdomen. No added heat required.
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With a DIY pack, lay the saturated cloth on your abdomen, cover with plastic wrap if desired, and place a heating pad or hot water bottle on top.
Relax or move gently
Rest with the pack in place for 45-60 minutes. With Queen of the Thrones®, you can also wear it while moving around or even overnight. With a DIY pack, it’s best to stay still and protect bedding or clothes, since it can get messy.
Remove and store
When finished, fold the pack with the oiled side in and store it in a glass container or silicone bag in the fridge. No need to wash after each use, just add a little more oil before your next session.
When Not to Use Castor Oil Packs
While castor oil packs can be super helpful for many people, there are times when you should avoid them. Use caution or skip them altogether if:
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You’re pregnant or in the luteal phase and there is a possibility of pregnancy.
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You’re actively bleeding or on your period, especially heavy flow.
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You have an acute infection, open wound, or skin irritation in the area you’d apply the pack.
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You have an inflammatory condition or disease that involves the abdominal organs (like active Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis flare, or severe liver issues) without medical guidance.
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You have deep vein thrombosis (blood clot), or a history of clotting disorders (since increased circulation might be a risk in certain contexts).
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You’re dealing with a serious illness that impacts detoxification (e.g. severe kidney or liver dysfunction) and you’re not under supervision.
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You’re allergic to castor oil, wool, or the materials in a pack like Queen of the Thrones®.
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You’re using other abdominal therapies (like certain medical devices) that might conflict, cause overheating, or interfere with placement.
If you hit any of these red flags, pause and check with your care provider before continuing.
Bonus Tips
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Be consistent. Benefits build over time.
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Hydrate well. Castor oil packs encourage detox and lymphatic movement.
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Listen to your body. If you ever feel crampy or off, take a break or use less frequently.
The Bottom Line
We love castor oil packs because they’re simple, natural, and supportive for both pelvic health and digestion. Whether you’re preparing for conception, easing cramps and bloating, or just giving your gut and liver some extra support, this ritual is an easy add-on with powerful results.
Always check with your provider first to be sure castor oil packs are safe and appropriate for you.
Got questions? Ask your acupuncturist at your next visit, or shoot us a message. We’re happy to help guide you through.