Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Drink castor oil
• Method 2 of 2: Seek medical attention
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities
• Take castor oil orally

Believe it or not, castor oil is a natural remedy for constipation. As a stimulant laxative, which causes your intestinal muscles to contract, it can start your bowel movements in small doses. If traditional laxatives don't work, castor oil can help relieve your symptoms. Just keep in mind that it can cause cramps and other unpleasant side effects. While you should always see a doctor if you have long-term constipation or experience severe symptoms, castor oil can provide some relief if you're looking for a quick fix.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Drink castor oil

1. Take a dose of 15 to 60 ml (one to four tablespoons) of castor oil. Look for a bottle of castor oil at the drugstore, supermarket, or pharmacy. Read the bottle label for information on the specific dosage by age group. As a rule of thumb, adults over 12 years old can take 15 to 60 ml (one to four tablespoons) of castor oil at a time. Children between the ages of 2 and 11 should not take more than 5 to 15 ml per dose.
   • Infants and toddlers under the age of 2 should not be given more than one to five ml.
   • If you are using castor oil on the advice of a doctor, follow his or her directions as to the amount.

   Warning: do not take castor oil if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or having your period.

   
   
2. Take castor oil in the morning or afternoon on an empty stomach. Find a time before breakfast or lunch to take your recommended dose. Keep in mind that it takes two to six hours for you to start noticing the effect of the oil on your bowel movements, so don't take it just before going to sleep.
   • If you want the castor oil to work gradually, take it with a meal.
3. Drink flavored castor oil or mix it with juice to spice things up. Fill a glass with your favorite juice, then add the recommended dose of oil using a special measuring spoon or cup. Mix both ingredients together and drink the entire glass to get the full effect of the oil. Even if you are using flavored castor oil, take the traditionally recommended amount.
   • You can also improve the flavor by putting the castor oil in the fridge for about an hour beforehand.
   • Flavored castor oil is available on the Internet. Castor oil is sold with fruity flavors, such as lemon.
4. Expect to go to the toilet in two to six hours. Castor oil often works after two to three hours, but sometimes it can last as long as six hours. As soon as you feel the urge, go to the toilet immediately.
   • Call the doctor if you have not yet been to the toilet at that time. You may have a more serious problem, such as an intestinal blockage or intestinal insufficiency.

   Warning: only use castor oil when absolutely necessary. If you use too many stimulant laxatives, you may eventually become unable to go to the toilet on your own.

   
   
5. Store the leftover castor oil in a cool, dry place. Find a closet or other cool place where you can keep the oil without it getting too hot. Before reusing the oil, always check the label to see if the expiration date has not passed.
   • Keep the castor oil in a place where it is cooler than 40 ° C.
   • If your oil smells rancid, throw it away.

Method 2 of 2: Seek medical attention

1. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before deciding to take castor oil. Make an appointment or give us a call so you can ask a doctor or pharmacist for an expert. During the appointment, review your history of constipation, discuss your specific needs, and try to find out if castor oil is indeed the right treatment for you.
   • Notify the doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have. Castor oil contains certain ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction.
2. Ask your doctor if it is safe to use castor oil in addition to other medications you are taking. Tell them what medications you are currently taking, especially if you are taking blood thinners, antibiotics, bone or heart medications. If you are taking certain other medications, you may not want to take castor oil for your constipation.
3. If your constipation has not cleared up after a week, see a doctor. If you haven't been to the toilet for a big errand for seven days, you should see a doctor, even if you're already undergoing treatment for your constipation. You may have a more serious condition or your constipation could be causing serious complications. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend a special procedure.
   • Your doctor may order an X-ray, colonoscopy, or other procedure, depending on what he or she thinks is causing your blockage.
4. Call the doctor if you experience side effects such as vomiting, cramps and diarrhea. You may be able to use castor oil without experiencing side effects, but you may experience a little stomach pain, cramps or nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or getting tired. Fortunately, these symptoms usually disappear quickly once the castor oil is out of your system.
   • If you experience severe abdominal cramps, bloating, vomiting, or dizziness, stop taking the castor oil immediately and call your doctor or go to the emergency room.

Tips

• If you have regular constipation, try to permanently improve your digestion by adding more fiber to your menu.

Warnings

• Do not take castor oil if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or menstruating.
• Using too much castor oil can cause your electrolytes to become unbalanced.

Necessities

Take castor oil orally

• Castor oil
• Measuring spoon or cup
• Glass
• Fruit juice (optional)