Castor Oil Plant and flower

Castor Oil Packs – How They Can Help with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance

Many people with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance have detox problems.

And Mold Toxicity has become that #1 root trigger of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and often Histamine Intolerance!

I had major detox issues, myself. Mold Toxicity…Mercury…Lead…even Chemical Toxins.

Do you have any kind of detox problems?

When I started detoxing, I was super sensitive to supplements. And it took me years to work up to full doses

I remember one time I took a whole capsule of curcumin. I felt like I was vibrating. And my terrible sleep got even worse. It took a week to get out of my system!

Have you dealt with these kinds of sensitivities?

The good news is castor oil packs were always something I could tolerate. Even when I was super sensitive, fortunately.

And castor oil packs have a lot of other benefits too! Like they support mast cells and lowering histamine levels. 

They can even help with digestion, biofilms, and the brain.

So, let’s look at what you need to know about castor oil.

What to Know about Castor Oil for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance 

Castor Oil Field Mast Cell 360Castor oil packs have been used for centuries all over the world. They are a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine, ancient Egyptian practices, Indian Ayurveda, and naturopathic medicine.

Castor oil is not just any old oil. It has been given the name “Palm of Christ” due to the shape of the castor bean plant. 

Castor oil has a famous history!

It has been used throughout history as an anointing oil for kings and queens when they took their thrones. And it was used for priests when they moved up in the clergy. 

So, how does castor oil work?

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid. This is a really unique component that has amazing benefits on the human body. 

It also contains oleic acid. Oleic acid can also be found in olive oil. 

And castor oil has linoleic acid. This is also in sesame oil.

Castor oil packs are great for people with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance. 

That’s because these special oils work to support the foundational principles of health

These include:

  • Reducing Inflammation 
  • Digestive Support
  • Microbiome Balance
  • Stimulation of Neurotransmitters
  • Liver Support

So, castor oil packs reduce inflammation, support digestion and detoxification, and improve neurotransmitter and hormone balance. Castor oil packs are a truly holistic way to benefit your health!

Supporting the body holistically using this method can go a long way to help you with healing.  

Let’s look next at how castor oil packs can help mast cells and histamine levels.

How Castor Oil Can Support Mast Cells and Help Lower Histamine Levels for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome MCAS Beth O'Hara Genetics

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Histamine Intolerance, and inflammation go hand in hand.

Inflammation is like a raging forest fire that’s out of control in your body. But castor oil is like a giant fire hose. It’s there to douse the flames!

As mentioned earlier, castor oil has a unique fatty acid in it called ricinoleic acid. This fatty acid has powerful anti-inflammatory properties

Have you heard of capsaicin? This is an anti-inflammatory ingredient found in chili pepper. Capsaicin is incredibly powerful in reducing inflammation. 

But the bad news is capsaicin can also be very irritating to mast cells in the skin.

But, did you know studies have shown that castor oil works just as well as capsaicin for inflammation? And without the irritation!

People often notice less pain after using castor oil packs regularly. That’s because of the anti-inflammatory effect of castor oil.

The best-known benefits of castor oil packs are detoxification. Let’s go into this next…

Castor Oil and Detox Support for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Liver Mast Cell 360

One of the most important organs in our detoxification system is the liver. It’s the director of over 300 physiological processes in our body! 

The liver produces and processes histamine. And the liver processes mycotoxins – the #1 root trigger in Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.

Inflammation in the liver area can negatively affect how it works. Yet, the anti-inflammatory ricinoleic acid in castor oil can really help

Wearing the castor oil pack over the liver lowers inflammation and helps to stimulate circulation and better flow. 

Glutathione is known as the body’s master antioxidant. It also works as a “cleansing” molecule. 

Castor oil was shown in an animal study to help preserve the body’s naturally occurring glutathione. In fact, it worked better than an actual glutathione solution.

Glutathione is needed for phase I and II detoxification in the liver. So, glutathione is really important for helping the body to detoxify like it should.

Researchers believe using castor oil may be a good way to preserve natural glutathione levels in the body.

Also, castor oil increases nitric oxide, an antioxidant that enhances circulation. 

To even further increase blood flow to the area, you can also apply a warm compress.

Increased blood flow can help move toxins out of your body.

But what about castor oil for digestion?

Castor Oil and Digestive Support for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Mast Cell 360 Digestion

Regular elimination is key for mast cell and histamine related conditions. 

That’s because the body must be able to release triggering toxins daily. This is why elimination works together with detoxification.

Castor oil packs can help support regular elimination.

The packs work by supporting the smooth muscle function of the intestines. That leads to good digestive flow – keeping you “regular.”

In a study done on the elderly, castor oil packs were shown to effectively relieve constipation. That was without causing a need to run to the bathroom. Like what can happen with a lot of laxatives.

Castor Oil and Hormone Support for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Estrogen Mast Cell 360

Those of us with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance tend to have hormone imbalances. 

One of those imbalances is estrogen dominance. 

The body sometimes makes more estrogen than progesterone. This can cause estrogen dominance.

Another way to have estrogen dominance is when an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase is elevated

The enzyme beta-glucuronidase is made in the gut by bad bacteria. So, what happens is the beta-glucuronidase undoes liver detox of estrogen.

This means with high beta-glucuronidase in the gut, estrogens continue to circulate in the body. So, estrogen remains high.

But, guess what?

Castor oil has been shown to lower beta-glucuronidase. This allows estrogens to be bound and removed from the body. 

Improving digestion, as mentioned earlier, is another way castor oil can help balance hormones. Without proper elimination (like when you’re constipated), estrogens continue to build up in the body.

The laxative effect of castor oil will help keep things moving. And it will help keep estrogen levels in balance by getting it out of the body.

Now, let’s look at something called biofilms.

Castor Oil and Biofilms for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Biofilm Mast Cell 360

Bad bacteria in the gut can contribute to higher levels of histamine. 

Sometimes, it’s difficult to kill these bad bacteria and move them out of the body. That’s because they have the ability to produce biofilms

A biofilm is this protective layer of thick ‘gunk’ that bacteria build around them. The biofilm is a shield that stops our immune system from killing them. 

There are very few substances that can break down biofilms. And castor oil is one of the few natural ones! 

Research in periodontal medicine shows that castor oil is effective at breaking down biofilm in the human body. 

So, castor oil packs help support digestion AND help get rid of bad bacteria. 

This leads to a healthier microbial balance. And lower histamine levels

Now, if that wasn’t enough…castor oil can also help the nervous system. Here’s how.

Castor Oil and the Nervous System for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Castor oil packs are surprisingly helpful for the nervous system.

For those of us with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance, our limbic system is in overdrive. The limbic system is a part of the brain that controls fear and emotions. 

Often, we are in stress mode. So, the limbic system is producing more fear and emotion chemicals. And more stress, fear, and emotions equal more histamine. 

When you use a castor oil pack, the light touch on your skin stimulates the release of a hormone called oxytocin. This is the “love and attachment hormone.” 

It’s the hormone that is produced when you look at a baby or a puppy and feel all happy and gushy. 

Cute puppy Mast Cell 360

Oxytocin also promotes the release of the fulfilling neurotransmitter, dopamine

It’s similar to when you are given a big hug. Can you think about how that feels?

A hug also helps to move the brain and body into the relaxed, parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) state. This state is needed for healing, cleansing, and overall well-being. 

Castor oil packs are one of the simplest and quickest ways to move the body into a relaxed state

When our neurotransmitters go out of whack, it causes higher histamine and more mast cell activation. But supporting our feel-good neurotransmitters can help bring balance to the whole body.

The stress-reducing benefit of using a castor oil pack may be the most important benefit. We are all stressed to the max these days – castor oil packs are an easy way to lower stress.

When the brain is in a fulfilled, calm, and loving state, stress goes down. The immune system is balanced. Our mast cells are at peace. And histamine levels go back to normal levels

Easiest Way to do Castor Oil Packs for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

Castor Oil Pack Mast Cell 360

So, now you’re probably wondering, how can I get started with castor oil packs ASAP?!?! 

Up until recently, you’d have to DIY Mcgyver a pack with a piece of cotton, castor oil, and plastic wrap (yikes!) to get it to stay on your body. 

The process was complicated and super messy. I always ended up with the plastic falling off. And then my shirt and sheets got oil stains on them.

It was so messy, I would find myself avoiding them. 

Until I found this one made by my friend and colleague Dr. Marisol Teijeiro, N.D. 

Dr. Marisol designed a pack that makes it super easy! So, now I can do castor oil packs easily every night!

Here is how her Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil packs work.

Simply apply 1-2 tablespoons of organic castor oil to the soft cotton side of the Queen of the Thrones™ pack. Then tie it onto your body in your chosen location. 

Wear the castor oil pack for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best results. 

You can get a 10% discount on Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil products using the code MC360 good through this week!

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Now, most castor oil comes in plastic bottles. But did you know that storing castor oil in plastic is a big no-no if you have mast cell or histamine issues?

Why to Not Buy Castor Oil in a Plastic Bottle if you have Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance

No Plastic Water Bottles

You definitely don’t want to buy castor oil in a plastic bottle. Especially if you have Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance.

The reason for this is that castor oil is a very strong binder. 

That means that when castor oil is stored in plastic, it binds those plastic molecules and then carries them into your castor oil pack

Then these plastic molecules and toxins are transferred into your body.

Plastic is full of xenoestrogens. These are synthetic estrogens that are foreign to the body. These types of toxins are major hormone disruptors. They contribute to estrogen dominance.

We already know that there is an estrogen-histamine connection. And estrogen dominance is a big mast cell trigger. 

The last thing we need is to increase estrogen dominance, which would raise histamine levels and increase mast cell activation.

So, how do you avoid this?

Be sure that your castor oil is bottled in a glass bottle. 

The Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil comes in a glass bottle. It’s certified organic, cold-pressed, hexane-free, and extra virgin castor oil.

You can get 10% off this week here:

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Castor Oil FAQs for People with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or Histamine Intolerance 

Mast Cell 360 FAQ

Where should I place the castor oil pack?

It’s most common to place a castor oil pack over the liver. That’s on your right side, just underneath your ribcage

Placing it in that area will also cover, to some extent, a number of other digestive organs. That includes the stomach, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, adrenals, and kidneys. There are also many lymph nodes there.

Another option is to use the castor oil pack over a particular area that needs attention. This may include over areas such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, the thyroid, and painful joints. You may still want to alternate with your liver.

Do I have to use heat over my castor oil pack?

It’s not necessary to use heat with your Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil pack. However, adding heat is an option, especially if you’re feeling cold or need it to soothe cramping at that time of the month.

Is it okay to use essential oils with my castor oil packs?

Essential oils are a great addition to castor oil packs. Castor oil is actually a great carrier oil for essential oils. It helps transport the essential oil molecules into the deeper layers of the skin where all the blood vessels and lymph vessels are located. 

How will I feel when using a castor oil pack?

Many people say that castor oil packs make them feel really calm

Because wearing a castor oil pack stimulates dopamine, a “feel good” neurotransmitter, you may feel amazing. Castor oil packs also stimulate the release of oxytocin, the “love and attachment hormone.”

Castor oil packs tend to relax the body, which helps to improve sleep and relieve pain.

I like to wear them when I go to bed.

After wearing a castor oil pack in the evening or overnight, many people find that they have flatter stomachs in the morning. Bloating is gone and energy is up. What a way to start the day!

I’ve tried castor oil packs in the past but didn’t feel any changes. Why?

It’s possible that you didn’t use the castor oil pack for long enough. While using castor oil packs a couple of times a week will be beneficial, it may not create the health transformation you’re looking for. 

For significant changes, wear the Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil pack overnight, every night

Is it okay to use castor oil packs when on my period?

Absolutely, you can use castor oil packs on your period. They actually help the uterine lining shed more easily, which can shorten your period. Great news! 

Castor oil packs can also reduce cramping. Just add a hot water bottle over the pack to enhance the calming effect on the muscles.

Does castor oil go rancid?

Because of the unique structure of castor oil (an alcohol group on its 12th carbon), it doesn’t easily go rancid. It has a super long shelf life – up to a year after opening. 

Is it okay to share my castor oil pack?

No, don’t share your castor oil pack. As a carrier oil, it may draw toxins out of the body. Those toxins could possibly end up in the pack. So, it’s not something you want to share with others. 

Can I wash my castor oil pack?

Yes, washing your castor oil pack is easy. Here’s what to do:

  1. Put some baking soda and natural dish soap in a bowl and fill with hot water. 
  2. Add the castor oil pack and soak overnight.
  3. In the morning, finish washing with hot water and soap. Then wring it out well.
  4. On an old towel, lay out the castor oil pack. Then roll it up in the towel and blot out the oil as much as you can.
  5. Hang up to dry.

What about salicylates?

If you have salicylate tolerance, then use less topically. Usually 1-2 tsps is fine. Go slow, though.

With salicylate intolerance, don’t use it internally.

Who should not use castor oil packs?

Pregnant women shouldn’t use castor oil packs. It can prematurely induce labor.

Looking to get the BEST Castor oil?

If you’re interested in lowering inflammation and kickstarting your healing, use discount code MC360 and get your own Queen of the Thrones™ castor oil products for 10% off this week!

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References

Andrade IM1, Andrade KM2, Pisani MX1, Silva-Lovato CH1, de Souza RF1, Paranhos Hde F1.Trial of an experimental castor oil solution for cleaning dentures. Braz Dent J. 2014 Jan-Feb;25(1):43-7.PMID: 24789291 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24789291

Arslan GG, Eşer I. An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011 Feb;17(1):58-62. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.04.004. Epub 2010 May 18. PMID: 21168117 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21168117

Badaró MM, Salles MM, Leite VMF, Arruda CNF, Oliveira VC, Nascimento CD, Souza RF, Paranhos HFO, Silva-Lovato CH. Clinical trial for evaluation of Ricinus communis and sodium hypochlorite as denture cleanser.J Appl Oral Sci. 2017 May-Jun; 25(3):324-334. PMID: 28678952 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28678952

Boddu SH1, Alsaab H2, Umar S3, Bonam SP2, Gupta H2, Ahmed S3. Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery. Int J Pharm. 2015 Feb 1;479(1):207-11. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2014.12.051. Epub 2014 Dec 24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25542985

Francis S, Rolls ET, Bowtell R, McGlone F, O’Doherty J, Browning A, Clare S, Smith E. The representation of pleasant touch in the brain and its relationship with taste and olfactory areas. Neuroreport. 1999 Feb 25;10(3):453-9. PMID: 10208571 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10208571

Gilad R, Hochner H, Savitsky B, Porat S, Hochner-Celnikier D. Castor oil for induction of labor in post-date pregnancies: A randomized controlled trial. Women Birth. 2018;31(1):e26-e31. doi:10.1016/j.wombi.2017.06.010 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28750937/

Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in optisol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265 Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24260265 

Izzo, Angelo. (1996). Castor oil: An update on mechanism of action. Phytotherapy Research. 10. S109-S111. http://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=GB971027085

Löken LS, Wessberg J, Morrison I, McGlone F, Olausson H. Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in humans. Nat Neurosci. 2009 May;12(5):547-8. Epub 2009 Apr 12. PMID: 19363489 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19363489

Mascolo N1, Izzo AA, Autore G, Barbato F, Capasso F.Nitric oxide and castor oil-induced diarrhea.J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1994 Jan;268(1):291-5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8301570

Rolls ET et all. Representations of pleasant and painful touch in the human orbitofrontal and cingulate cortices. Cereb Cortex. 2003 Mar;13(3):308-17. PMID: 12571120 Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12571120

Salles MM, Badaró MM, Arruda CN, Leite VM, Silva CH, Watanabe E, Oliveira Vde C, Paranhos Hde F. Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study.J Appl Oral Sci. 2015 Nov-Dec; 23(6):637-42. PMID: 26814466 Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26814466

Sorin Tunaru,a Till F. Althoff,a Rolf M. Nüsing,b Martin Diener,c and Stefan Offermannsa,d,1 Castor oil induces laxation and uterus contraction via ricinoleic acid activating prostaglandin EP3 receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jun 5; 109(23): 9179–9184. Published online 2012 May 21. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1201627109 PMID: 22615395 Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22615395

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Comments

  1. Levente

    Much gratitude for this post, Beth! I am wondering if I use these castor oil packs regularly over my liver, can that influence how long it will take to metabolize certain medications? Right now I am on benzo tapering and it wouldn’t be desirable if my liver suddenly metabolized it faster than before because then I would get withdrawal symptoms.

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