The Gentle Reset Your Body Is Craving: Why I Love Castor Oil Packs
By Nichole Krueger | June 30, 2025
Hey sweet friend,
If you’ve been feeling bloated, anxious, puffy, tired all the time, or just not like yourself… I want to introduce you to one of my favorite calming, healing practices that has made a huge difference for me and so many of my clients: castor oil packs.
It’s one of those simple things you can do at home that supports your entire body—especially your gut, hormones, and nervous system. And the best part? It feels like a warm hug for your insides.
Let’s talk about what castor oil packs are, why they’re so helpful (especially for us moms), and how you can start using them in a way that’s easy, mess-free, and effective.
What Are Castor Oil Packs?
Castor oil packs are an ancient wellness ritual made by applying organic castor oil to a soft cotton flannel and wearing it over your belly (usually over the liver area). This helps the oil soak in through the skin and do its magic from the outside in.
It’s been used for centuries for everything from hormone support to digestive help—and now we know it also activates the vagus nerve, supports detox, and helps the body shift out of stress mode. Pretty incredible, right?
Why I Recommend Castor Oil Packs for Women (Especially Moms)
1. They Help Balance Hormones
When your liver is working well, it helps process and eliminate excess estrogen and other hormones. But when it’s overloaded (hello stress, processed foods, and environmental toxins), things get backed up.
That’s when you might start noticing PMS, heavy periods, irritability, fatigue, or stubborn weight gain.
Using castor oil packs over your liver can gently support that natural detox process and help your hormones find a better rhythm again.
2. They Support Digestion & Regular Bowel Movements
If your digestion feels sluggish or you’re not going every day (or completely), castor oil packs can help. They stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” state), which can help your gut start moving the way it’s supposed to.
Many of my clients tell me they feel less bloated, lighter, and more regular after just a few nights of using them consistently.
3. They Calm Your Nervous System
You know that constant feeling of being “on”? Like your brain is buzzing, your body is tense, and you can’t quite relax even when you’re trying to rest?
Castor oil packs help your body shift out of fight-or-flight mode by activating your vagus nerve, which helps calm your whole system. I often recommend using them at night to wind down—especially if you’re struggling with sleep or anxiety.
4. They Support Your Lymphatic System & Inflammation
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has natural anti-inflammatory and lymph-supportive properties. This means it helps your body move out toxins, reduce swelling or puffiness, and support your immune system.
It’s like giving your body the support it needs to clear out what it no longer needs—without having to “do” a major detox.
How to Use Castor Oil Packs (Without Making a Mess)
Here’s how I recommend using them (and what I personally use myself):
- Grab a Queen of the Thrones® castor oil pack kit—they’re organic, easy to use, and don’t leak like old-school DIY versions.
- Pour 1–2 tbsp of organic, hexane-free castor oil onto the pack.
- Place the pack over your liver (right side, under your rib cage).
- Strap it in place. You don’t need heat unless you want it!
- Wear it for an hour, or sleep with it on overnight.
- Do this 3–5 times per week (or daily, depending on your needs).
It’s that easy—and honestly, it’s a sacred little self-care ritual I now look forward to. You can wear it while you read, pray, listen to a podcast, or just rest in silence for a few minutes. You don’t need to overthink it.
Final Thoughts
If your hormones feel off, your digestion is stuck, your energy is low, or your emotions are all over the place… castor oil packs are one of the most gentle and supportive tools I can offer.
They don’t fix everything on their own—but they create a shift. A pause. A reset. And sometimes that’s exactly what we need to start feeling like ourselves again.
If you’re ready to try castor oil packs, you can grab the kit I love from Queen of the Thrones. Start simple. Trust your body. Give yourself that time.
You are worthy of rest.
You are worthy of healing.
You are not broken—your body just needs support.
I’m here with you every step of the way.
With love and care,
Nichole
