In our modern world, castor oil is commonly used for its laxative properties, mainly to ease digestive problems such as constipation. If you are having trouble with bowel movements and fewer than three bowel movements per week, you might want to try castor oil. It might work as a laxative, but only if proper dosage is administered. Remember to consult with your doctor before intaking castor oil.
Castor oil has been around for ages, with its many beneficial properties and uses.
Over the years, with the help of modern technology and science, we are now aware of how it works in the body, both the good and the bad side.
We now know that it can be useful if taken correctly and moderately but can also be dangerous if consumed excessively.
Is it safe to consume 2 days in a row? This would highly depend on your dosage and how frequently you take it within the day.
How does castor oil work for constipation?
You may or may not have heard of castor oil before, but it is used in a wide range of products we use daily.
It is an active ingredient in many household items, from cleaning products, and paints, to even a range of medical conditions, mainly digestive issues.
A 2011 study of older adults with chronic constipation found castor oil use reduced straining and improved constipation symptoms.
It was discovered that ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid in castor oil, binds to receptors on the smooth muscle cells of your intestinal walls.
As soon as the ricinoleic acid binds to the receptors, it causes the muscles to contract and push out stool, just as other stimulant laxatives do.
What causes me to get constipated?
Constipation can happen for many reasons, but most of the time, it is related to diet and is when the stool passes through the colon too slowly.
The slower the food moves through the digestive tract, the more water the colon will absorb and the harder the feces will become.
It can also result from a blockage in the large intestine; in this case, a person will need urgent medical attention.
Sometimes, it may be due to lacking fiber or water.
Is castor oil safe to consume?
Castor oil is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a stimulative laxative.
For constipation, the castor oil is broken down into ricinoleic acid in the small intestine, which increases the process of digestion.
Castor oil was proven to be effective for constipation. But it would be best if you consumed the proper dose.
Consuming too much might lead to Gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, cramping, and bloating.
It could also cause dizziness in some instances. Only use it for constipation under medical supervision.
Remember that consulting a doctor or your local health provider is still the best practice before consuming anything for your body.
Taking castor oil for pregnant women and people with certain health conditions is not recommended.
How can I consume castor oil safely?
If you plan to try castor oil, here are some things you should know.
To take castor oil safely, you should only consume the correct dosage and take it depending on your purpose of use.
The standard dose for constipation is around 1 teaspoon, but this varies on the severity.
Those who have previously taken castor oil know it has a thick consistency and a similar smell and taste to petroleum jelly.
Now that you know how it tastes, you can try mixing it with your favorite drink, like fruit juice, soft drinks, milk, or even flavored water, to minimize the distinct taste of castor oil.
Because of the delayed effects of castor oil, avoid taking it before bedtime, which typically causes a bowel movement to occur in 2 to 3 hours.
However, it might take up to 6 hours to work for some people.
Remember that the best way to be safe is to always consult your doctor before taking anything besides your prescribed medications, regardless of whether it’s organic or not.
References
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/beauty/go-for-a-castor-oil-detox-flush/articleshow/68063661.cms
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21168117/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150322.php
- https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy-categories.html
