The article was written by Mai Vien Phuong (M.D, MS.c) Department of Outpatient and Internal Medicine, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
Castor oil may be useful as a treatment for occasional constipation, but it comes with some side effects and is not suitable for everyone.
1. What is castor oil?
Castor oil is derived from castor bean seeds, and it has been used as a laxative for thousands of years. However, it is only recently that scientists have discovered the underlying mechanism to know how it works.
Researchers have found that ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid in castor oil, binds to receptors on the smooth muscle cells in your intestinal walls. Once ricinoleic acid binds to these receptors, it causes the muscles to contract and push stool out, similar to other stimulant laxatives. Castor oil has a similar effect on the uterus, which is why it has been used to trigger labor.
There is some evidence to suggest that castor oil effectively and quickly reduces constipation. In 2021, a study conducted on elderly individuals with chronic constipation indicates that the use of castor oil reduced strain and improved constipation symptoms.
2. How to use castor oil?
Castor oil is a drinkable liquid, it usually works in a day because it works quickly.
The recommended dose of castor oil for treating constipation in adults is 15 ml. To improve its taste, refrigerate the castor oil for at least one hour before consuming.. Then, mix it with one glass of fruit juice. You can also buy flavored castor oil products.
Castor oil works very quickly. You can observe the result within 2 to 6 hours after taking it.. Because castor oil works very quickly, you should not take it before bedtime, similar to other laxatives.
Like many other stimulant laxatives, the castor oil should not be used for a long time. By using it for a long time, it can reduce muscle tone in your intestines and lead to chronic constipation. If you continue to experience constipation, you should visit a doctor.
3. Safety concerns
Castor oil is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended to use for pregnant women because it can contract the uterus.
It is also not recommended to use frequently in children < 12 years old. If you want to use it for your kids, please consult with a pediatrician.
In the elderly (>60 years old), castor oil might exacerbate intestinal conditions if it is used for a long time. It also reduce the concentration of potassium in your body.
You should avoid castor oil if you are taking one of these following medications:
- Diuretics can also reduce the potassium levels in your body.
- Antibiotics, including tetracycline.
- Bone medication
- Blood thinners.
- Cardiovascular medications.
In addition to its unpleasant taste, castor oil also has some side effects. Like other stimulant laxatives, it can cause cramping and diarrhea. It can also reduce nutrient absorption in your intestines.
Castor oil is not recommended as a treatment for long-term constipation. If you experience frequent constipation without relief, talk to your doctor about additional treatment options.
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References:
Arsian GG, et al. (2011). An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly [Abstract]. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21168117 Definition and facts for constipation. (2018). niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/digestive-diseases/constipation/Pages/definition-facts.aspx Laxatives: OTC Products for Constipation. (2018). familydoctor.org/laxatives-otc-products-for-constipation/ Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Constipation. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253 Portalatin M, et al. (2012). Medical management of constipation. Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, 25(1), 12-19. DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1301754 Williams SCP. (2012). Just a spoonful of castor oil. sciencemag.org/news/2012/05/just-spoonful-castor-oil
