Castor oil: tips and contraindications

Do you suffer from constipation? Did you know that castor oil could help you? In this article, you will discover its indications and contraindications.

The ' castor oil is extracted from the seeds of Ricinus communis  and represents a natural option with different properties. Nevertheless, it is important to know the indications and contraindications of this oil because of the impact on our health.

Remember that even though  natural products usually have no side effects,  in some cases it is helpful to check if they are not contraindicated for certain conditions.

Castor oil

In order to be able to speak about the indications and the contraindications of the castor oil,  it is essential to consult its data sheet.  There is also other information such as its composition and pharmaceutical form.

indications

The people who use this oil do it for a  specific purpose: to facilitate intestinal emptying. It is a natural way to eradicate constipation ,  whether occasional or frequent. However, in order to use it correctly, it is important to consider the following data:

• Castor oil is always administered on an empty stomach,  with a single dose of 25 ml
• It can be eaten mixed with milk, juice or soft drinks
• Its effects begin to be felt between 2 and 6 hours after taking

Constipation sufferers can use castor oil to help evacuate stools.

An important fact about this oil is that it should always be consumed at breakfast ,  and never at night. If you have to be away from home and fear that  the urge to evacuate may come at the wrong time, it is best to use castor oil at a more convenient time.

Cons-indications

Despite the benefits of this oil in case of constipation, there are however some  contraindications that it is necessary to know  so as not to misuse this natural remedy. Let's see some of them:

• Children:  Due to the hypersensitivity of this type of oil to children under 12, it is not recommended for use
• Pregnant  women : Pregnant women should not use it. Indeed, it could cause contractions and premature delivery
• Breast-feeding:  Since babies can not ingest this oil, mothers should not consume it while breastfeeding. She can actually pass into breast milk
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome :  Due to the delicate nature of this disease, this oil is strongly discouraged even with constipation
• Intestinal obstruction:  Castor oil may not be effective in these cases and cause acute abdominal pain due to the inability to evacuate

Castor oil  can not be consumed in case of hemorrhoids , colitis or other problems. The reason lies not only in the pain that can make us suffer, but also in the dehydration generated by its consumption.

In addition, its use is not recommended if we take  arrhythmia medications or diuretics. Or if we have heart disease.

Tips for using castor oil

Considering all of the above,  castor oil can be an excellent ally for treating cases of constipation. However, in case of doubt, it is always best to seek the advice of a doctor or a trusted pharmacist.

Although you can rely on this oil to facilitate the evacuation of stool, experts advise against using it too often. It is therefore better to prevent constipation by using a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Also, do not forget to include physical exercise in your routine.

Have you ever used castor oil to relieve constipation? How did you experience it? We hope that our advice and contraindications will have helped you to learn more about the correct way to consume it.

Finally, we recommend that you never exceed the proper dose. In case of overdose, symptoms such as diarrhea, acute colic or a serious loss of electrolytes  may occur. Therefore, castor oil should always be used with caution.