Castor oil has a long-standing reputation as a potent natural remedy, recently regaining popularity in TikTok’s wellness community. This thick, potent, and deeply penetrating oil has a wide range of uses and benefits…
The ‘navel pulling’ or ‘navel oiling’ trend involves applying a few drops of castor oil into your navel and massaging the excess around your lower stomach before bed. Why? Let’s get into the benefits:
The benefits of navel pulling
Your navel is an underestimated entrance passage into your body and because its located right above the stomach, where the benefits are targeted. Here are the benefits of navel pulling with castor oil:
Digestive health and detox
Castor oil can help with bloating by serving as a natural laxative. It contains ricinoleic acid, which stimulates intestinal muscles and eases constipation, a common cause of bloating. However, it should be used cautiously, as excessive consumption may lead to diarrhea and dehydration. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
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Glowing skin
Castor oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, making it a popular choice for skincare. Skin’s texture and appearance will improve after regular application. The navel application may help the oil penetrate the skin more effectively, benefiting those with dry or irritated skin.
Stress relief
The act of massaging castor oil into the navel can be soothing and relaxing, potentially reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Menstrual cramps relief
Applying castor oil to the navel can help alleviate menstrual cramps due to the anti-inflammatory properties for pain reduction.
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How to do ‘navel pulling’
Choose high-quality castor oil: Ensure you are using pure, cold-pressed castor oil without additives. Organic is the best!
Clean Yyur navel: Before applying, clean your navel area gently to remove any dirt or oils. However, the oil will do a bit of cleaning as well…
Pouring: To prevent spillage, use a dropper to apply a few drops of castor oil into your navel but you can pour it straight from the bottle or pour a bit in the cap of the bottle.
Massage gently: Allow the oil to sit in your navel for 10-15 minutes, then, massage the oil around your navel area in a circular motion for a few minutes longer to facilitate absorption.
Bedtime ritual: Many users recommend doing this before bedtime to allow the oil to work its magic overnight!
You can also consider a castor oil pack. Apply castor oil to a cotton material and wrap around your stomach, then apply heat – like a hot water bottle.
As with any health or beauty trend, results may vary from person to person, so it’s essential to listen to your body and make informed decisions. Consulting your healthcare provider before trying!
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Feature Image: Pexels
