Castor Oil Packs for Skin Rashes

Skin rashes may appear on any part of your body at any time. According to the Mayo Clinic, certain skin rashes, such as heat rashes and swimmer’s itch, may clear up on their own while others, such as rosacea and drug rashes may need medications 1. Castor oil may be used to treat certain skin ailments, such as rashes and eczema 2. Always consult with your physician or dermatologist before you self-treat any skin condition.

Castor Oil

The castor plant may be found in warm tropical regions throughout the world. Castor oil comes from the seeds of the castor plant and is known to have medicinal benefits 2. Castor oil acts as a stimulant laxative therefore making it a common treatment for constipation 2. Additionally, when used externally as a topical ointment or as a castor oil pack, it may be beneficial in treating skin conditions such as rashes 2.

Causes

The most common name for simple skin rashes is dermatitis 1. This is an inflammation of the skin that may be caused by many factors such as chemicals, dyes and poison ivy or poison oak. Other common causes of rashes may be psoriasis, eczema, certain medications or impetigo. Additionally, if you have certain food allergies, you may develop a skin rash.

Symptoms

Skin rash symptoms may vary from one person to the next and different types of rashes may have different symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms may include pain and itching accompanied by redness and dryness at the affected area. More severe skin rashes may develop bumps and swelling.

Treatment

Castor oil may be used topically to treat an array of skin conditions 2. To use castor oil topically, pour a small amount of the oil on a piece of cotton or gauze twice daily 2. According to ALTMD, a castor oil pack may be made using flannel, wool or cotton folded three layers thick and saturating it with castor oil 2. Place the pack on the affected area with a warm water bottle or heating pad on top of the pack and leave for one hour. Once you remove the pack, clean the area with 1 quart of warm water with two tsp. of baking soda.

Warnings

Castor oil comes with side effects, some which may be serious 2. Side effects may include confusion, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat or weakness. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor for evaluation. Women that are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using any home remedy treatments without a physician’s recommendation.