In the realm of health and fitness, new fads tend to crop up, particularly on social media websites such as TikTok. One of the newer trends that is currently trending is applying castor oil to the navel to get rid of bloating and stomach pain. But is there any science to back this up, or is it simply another fleeting internet craze?
Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the plant Ricinus communis and has been employed in traditional medicine for centuries. Its long-standing laxative property results from a chemical called ricinoleic acid that serves to stimulate the intestines. Topically applying castor oil, however, and even more so applying it to the navel, is altogether different from ingesting it.
Experts such as Dr. Michael Chichak, an instructor of internal medicine, point out that there is no scientific data to support the claim that applying castor oil to the skin will treat internal organs or relieve bloating. Likewise, dermatologist Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya describes how although rubbing oil on your skin may relax muscles or ease tension, it isn’t penetrating deeply enough in your tissues to have a direct effect on digestion. Any relief you experience is most probably the result of the relaxing effect of the massage or the warm compress, and not the oil.
Though lacking scientific evidence, the practice persists, in part because it traces back to ancient Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda views the belly button as a primary energy point and employs castor oil in traditional treatments, says Dr. Melinda Ring, an expert in integrative health. But the so-called “Pechoti gland,” said to draw in substances through the belly button, has never been proven scientifically.
Using castor oil on the belly button is safe for most individuals, but may irritate the skin of those with sensitive skin. More significantly, substituting it with not taking medical advice may be delaying diagnosis and treatment of underlying gastrointestinal illnesses such as irritable bowel syndrome or food intolerances.
For anyone experiencing bloating, experts advise holding on to tried-and-true remedies: drinking plenty of water, consuming fiber-containing foods, and taking gentle exercise such as walking or yoga. Over-the-counter drugs will also work, but in case of persistent symptoms, one should seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner.
Ultimately, although it may be tempting to try quick fixes, it’s always a good idea to evaluate health trends critically. Castor oil has its uses, but when it comes to gut health, relying on tried and true, evidence-based approaches is the safest and most effective method.