Castor Oil for Menopause Relief: A Natural Ritual That Actually Works

It might sound like something your granny used (and it probably was), but castor oil is having a serious wellness comeback and for good reason. From hormone health influencers to holistic practitioners, more and more women are turning to this age-old remedy for relief during menopause.

So what’s behind the buzz?

Turns out, this thick golden oil is more than just folklore. Castor oil has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for everything from bloating and constipation to lymphatic drainage and joint pain. And during menopause, when our bodies are shifting in big ways, it can be a gentle but powerful addition to your self-care toolkit.

Let’s break it down.

Why Your Menopausal Body Might Love Castor Oil

Perimenopause and menopause come with a laundry list of potential symptoms including:
- Hot flushes
- Anxiety and mood swings
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and bloating
- Poor sleep

Castor oil won’t fix everything but used regularly, it may ease several of the most common complaints. Here's why:

1. It supports your detox organs.

During menopause, your liver takes on more work. It’s processing not only environmental toxins and medications but also shifting levels of estrogen, cortisol, and other hormones. Castor oil packs placed over the liver can help stimulate lymphatic flow, support gentle detoxification, and reduce inflammation in this key area.

2. It relieves constipation and bloating.

Sluggish digestion is common in menopause from things like hormone shifts and stress!. Applied topically to the abdomen, castor oil can gently stimulate the intestines and reduce uncomfortable bloating or water retention without harsh laxatives.

3. It reduces inflammation and joint stiffness.

Achy joints and stiffness? You’re not imagining it. As estrogen declines, inflammation tends to rise and stay. Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that may help relieve joint pain and muscle soreness when massaged into problem areas.

4. It supports hormone balance.

While castor oil doesn’t contain hormones or phytoestrogens, supporting your liver, gut, and lymphatic system can help your body process and clear excess estrogen more effectively, which is a key factor in natural hormone balance.

How to Use Castor Oil in Menopause

You don’t need fancy tools or hours of free time. Here are two simple ways to try castor oil safely and effectively:

1. The Castor Oil Pack (Liver Support)

Use for: Bloating, hormone support, detox

What You Need:

• Organic, cold-pressed castor oil

• Organic cotton compress or a flannel or a cotton cloth

• Old towel (optional)

• Hot water bottle or heat pack

How to Use It:

1. Apply a small handful of castor oil directly to your upper right abdomen (where your liver lives).

2. Place the compress or cloth over that area.

3. Cover with a towel (optional).

4. Apply gentle heat and relax for 30–45 minutes, ideally in the evening.

Bonus: Make it a wind-down ritual before bed for extra sleep support.

2.  Joint or Belly Massage

Use for: Joint stiffness, cramps, digestive support

Rub a couple of teaspoons of castor oil directly onto sore joints or your lower belly in circular motions. Wrap in a towel or cover with an old t-shirt to protect clothes. Apply gentle heat and relax.

What to Look Out For

Castor oil is generally considered safe for external use, but keep these tips in mind:

• Always choose organic, hexane-free, cold-pressed castor oil.

• Avoid using during pregnancy.

• Do a patch test first if you have sensitive skin.

• Don’t take it internally without medical guidance (it’s a strong laxative!).
  

Real Talk: Is It a Miracle Cure?

No. But nothing in menopause is about one quick fix. What castor oil can offer is a simple, grounding practice that helps your body feel supported and that matters.

At Hello Mimi, we believe in rituals over routines. In tuning into your body instead of pushing through. In choosing small acts of nourishment that build strength over time.

So if you’re feeling puffy, sluggish, or inflamed…
If your belly is tender and your joints are cranky…
If you want to give your body some extra love, without overwhelming it…

Castor oil might just be the missing piece.

Want More Support?

Your body deserves holistic care - without the overwhelm.
👉 Download our free 7 Days to Healthier Hormones guide to discover natural ways to reduce hot flushes, improve digestion, and feel more like yourself again.
Or…
👉 Explore our 7-Day Menopause Reset for a complete food, mindset, and movement plan designed just for this season of life.

Disclaimer:

At Hello Mimi, we’re here to support and empower you with education, encouragement, and practical tools but we’re not a substitute for personalised medical advice. The information in this blog is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health, diet, or supplements especially if you're managing a condition or taking medication.