Evidence supporting the use of: Castor
For the body system: Ovaries

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for women’s reproductive health, including support for the ovaries. Most notably, castor oil packs—cloths soaked in castor oil applied to the lower abdomen—have been used in folk medicine and by natural health practitioners to purportedly improve circulation to pelvic organs, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of tissues, including the ovaries. Anecdotal reports and traditional practices suggest benefits for menstrual pain, ovarian cysts, and general support of reproductive health. However, robust scientific studies validating these effects are limited. A few small studies and case reports have explored castor oil packs in the context of pain management or inflammation, but none specifically demonstrate direct support for ovarian health or function. The mechanism suggested in traditional practice is largely theoretical, involving increased circulation and lymphatic drainage. To date, there is no high-quality clinical evidence that castor oil, whether ingested or applied topically, can directly support or heal the ovaries. Thus, while the use is grounded in tradition, scientific support remains minimal, justifying a modest evidence rating.

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