Applying castor oil to the belly button is a popular wellness trend rooted in Ayurvedic practices. There is no scientific evidence that the belly button offers unique absorption benefits for castor oil. Castor oil does have proven benefits for skin hydration and, when used topically in packs, may help with constipation and cramping. The benefits come from the oil being absorbed through the skin in general, not specifically the navel. What Is Castor Oil? Castor oil is a vegetable oil produced by pressing the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. While raw castor beans are toxic, containing a poison called ricin, the oil manufacturing process removes this toxin completely. The final, commercially produced castor oil is safe for use and has been valued for centuries for its powerful medicinal and therapeutic properties. Used for centuries in traditional medicine by cultures like the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, castor oil has long been valued for its therapeutic proper...
Most people at some point in their lives suffer from gas, flatulence and other issues with the colon . In small doses these are natural function of the gut. However, when it becomes very often or in long term, it can be a sign that your body has a week digestion, metabolism , or other imbalances . From an Ayurvedic standpoint, the colon is the main seat of the vata dosha (body and mind constitution). Vata’s predominant elements are air and ether, so out of balance vata can create these qualities in the body. These qualities can result in gas, dryness, constipation, cramps , and anxiety. Vata can increase in the colon due to a number of factors. Some of which are: vata-aggravating foods, anxiety, insomnia, cold and windy weather, constipation, and improperly digested food . These factors can all lead to a build up of gas due to the disturbance on our agni ( digestive fire ). When our digestive fire is compromised we cannot properly digest or assimilate food...