Castor oil extracted from musk seeds (castor seeds) is a natural remedy for constipation. Castor oil acts as a laxative that stimulates bowel movements and lubricates the digestive tract without absorbing fluid from the intestinal wall. If you occasionally experience constipation, castor oil can help relieve your symptoms, but its use can cause side effects and for some people is even unsafe, so you should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using castor oil for constipation.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparing to Consume Castor Oil
Step 1. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking
Castor oil has the potential to interact with certain medications, and before taking it, make sure that you are not experiencing any dangerous drug interactions.
Tell the pharmacist any allergies you may have. Castor oil contains certain ingredients that may be harmful if you are allergic to it
Step 2. Do not use castor oil if you are pregnant
Pregnant, lactating, and menstruating women are prohibited from using castor oil. Other groups that should not use castor oil for constipation include:
- People who have severe stomach pain
- People who have intestinal blockage or gallbladder disease
- People who feel nauseous or are vomiting
- People who are experiencing undiagnosed abdominal pain or rectal bleeding
- Castor oil should not be taken in combination with diuretic medications unless its use is supervised by a doctor. This can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly those related to potassium.
Step 3. Learn the possible side effects
Most people take castor oil without experiencing problems, but you should be prepared to deal with some of the possible side effects. Most of these side effects will subside within a short time, but some can be taken seriously.
- Mild side effects include stomach pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness. This effect usually doesn't last long. If side effects persist, contact your doctor.
- More serious side effects include vomiting, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, and confusion. Also, be prepared for rashes or hives that appear almost all over your body, as these could indicate that you are having an allergic reaction. Stop using castor oil and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Part 2 of 3: Taking the First Dose
Step 1. Purchase castor oil
Although the use of castor oil is not as popular as it was in the past, most drugstores and supermarkets still sell it. This oil is usually packaged in small brown bottles, and displayed in the gastrointestinal tract.
When buying castor oil, check the label on the packaging and look for keywords such as non-heated squeezed/processed, first-pressed, 100% pure, and has a BPOM number to ensure the product is of high quality
Step 2. Determine the correct dose
There are different guidelines for determining the right castor oil dosage to take.
- If you are taking castor oil on the advice of your doctor, stick to the dosage he has prescribed.
- Some bottled castor oil includes a specific dosage description. Read the label to see if there is a recommended dosage.
- If the doctor does not give instructions regarding dosage and the label on the bottle does not include the recommended dose, the general rule for using castor oil is 15-60 ml for adults and children over the age of 12, 5-15 ml for children aged 2- 11 years, and 1-5 ml for children under 2 years of age.
Step 3. Castor oil should be taken on an empty stomach
This will make the medicine work faster. If you want a slower effect, take it with food.
Step 4. Measure the correct dose using a measuring spoon or cup
It is important not to use a tablespoon instead of a measuring spoon or cup. Cutlery is not measured accurately and may result in incorrect dosing.
Step 5. Mix the measured dose of castor oil into a glass of juice
Castor oil is known for its bitter and unpleasant taste. You can make the process of consuming castor oil more enjoyable by dissolving the medicine in the juice.
- Make sure you only use cranberry, orange, prune (dried plums), or ginger juice in the mix. Other juices can weaken the laxative effect of the drug.
- You can also refrigerate the castor oil for at least an hour to reduce the unpleasant taste.
Step 6. Expect a CHAPTER in a few hours
The effects of castor oil can be felt in a minimum of 2 hours or a maximum of 6 hours. If you don't have a bowel movement during this time, there may be a more serious problem such as a bowel obstruction or impaction. Immediately consult a doctor.
Do not take castor oil at night because the laxative effect is usually very quick
Step 7. Be prepared for the possibility of not having a bowel movement for a few days after using castor oil
Castor oil works to clean the entire digestive tract, not just the colon. That's why it's natural that you don't defecate for 2 or 3 days after the constipation is resolved.
Part 3 of 3: Consuming Castor Oil Repeatedly
Step 1. Prepare the dose you need
Follow the steps outlined in the section on taking the first dose.
Step 2. Take your dose of medication at the same time each day
Striving for a consistent dose will help bowel movements regularly and predictably at a time. The effects of castor oil tend to be felt within a few hours of consumption, so the best time to take it is in the morning instead of at night.
Step 3. Stop using the oil after 7 days
Castor oil is usually considered a temporary treatment for constipation and is not recommended for long-term use. Except under a doctor's supervision, castor oil should not be taken for more than 7 days at a time. This can pose a risk of overdose or increase dependence on castor oil for regular bowel movements.
Using castor oil in excess can also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
Step 4. Watch for signs of an overdose
As long as you take castor oil as directed, there should be no problem. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using the oil and contact your doctor.
- Prolonged diarrhea.
- Serious stomach pain.
- Dizziness or confusion.
- Throws up.
- Shortness of breath or chest pain.
Step 5. Call your doctor if you are still constipated
If you've been taking castor oil, but are still experiencing digestive issues, you may be experiencing something other than just constipation. Visit your doctor and find out if there are other causes for your constipation.
