xAnts

Former Love Island star Montana Brown, 29, is known for her vibrant personality and active lifestyle. Now, she's sharing a surprising wellness secret that's gaining attention: castor oil packs. In a recent Instagram video, Brown revealed that she incorporates this unusual routine into her nightly regimen, claiming it significantly aids digestion and reduces inflammation.

But what exactly *is* a castor oil pack, and why is it gaining popularity among wellness enthusiasts? Let's dive in.

What are Castor Oil Packs?

Castor oil packs involve applying a warm, saturated cloth soaked in castor oil to a specific area of the body, typically the abdomen. The pack is then covered with a warm towel or blanket and left in place for approximately 30-60 minutes. Castor oil, derived from the castor bean plant, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its purported medicinal properties.

Why Does Montana Brown Swear By Them?

Brown credits her nightly castor oil pack routine for improved digestion and reduced inflammation. While scientific research on castor oil packs is still emerging, proponents believe the oil's ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid, plays a key role. Ricinoleic acid is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and may stimulate circulation, potentially promoting detoxification and supporting gut health.

Potential Benefits & What the Science Says

Beyond Montana Brown's personal experience, advocates suggest castor oil packs may offer several benefits, including:

• Improved Digestion: Stimulating bowel movements and relieving constipation.
• Reduced Inflammation: Potentially easing pain and discomfort associated with inflammatory conditions.
• Lymphatic Support: May help to cleanse the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in immunity.
• Skin Health: Some believe it can improve skin conditions like eczema and acne (though topical application is more common for this).

It’s important to note that while anecdotal evidence and traditional use are compelling, more rigorous scientific studies are needed to fully understand the extent of castor oil pack benefits. A few studies suggest potential benefits for constipation and pain relief, but further research is warranted.

How to Use a Castor Oil Pack (Safely!)

If you're intrigued by Montana Brown's routine and want to try a castor oil pack, here's a simple guide:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a clean, cotton flannel cloth (approximately 8x12 inches), 1/4 cup of castor oil, a warm towel or blanket, and a plastic sheet or old towel to protect your bed.
2. Saturate the Cloth: Thoroughly soak the flannel cloth in castor oil.
3. Apply to Abdomen: Place the plastic sheet on your bed, then lay down. Position the oil-soaked cloth over your abdomen.
4. Cover and Relax: Cover the cloth with a warm towel or blanket and relax for 30-60 minutes.
5. Clean Up: After removing the pack, wash the cloth thoroughly with hot, soapy water.

Important Considerations & Precautions

• Consult Your Doctor: Always consult your doctor before starting any new health routine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Castor oil is not recommended during pregnancy as it can stimulate uterine contractions. It's also best to avoid it while breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying a castor oil pack to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.