Thelatest trend to catch on?
Putting castor oil in your belly buttonalso known as navel oiling or navel pulling.
What are the purported benefits of castor oil in your belly button?
They also believe it aids in detoxification and supporting regular bowel movements.
Some may even say it helps with constipation.
The process typically involves filling the belly button with oil before bedtime and letting it absorb overnight.
a primary-care physician and internist in New York City
Yes, theres cultural significance to this practice.
But that doesnt necessarily mean it results in the health benefits TikTok reels claim.
Plus, the practice itself can be messy.
(Fair warning: Your pajamas and sheets may get stained!)
If it all sounds too good to be true (minus the stains)…then it likely is.
But this is only if youingestit, not put it in your belly button.
Of course, talk to your healthcare provider before turning to castor oil when youre backed up.
It shouldnt be used as a long-term solution for digestive issues.
If ingested in high doses, it can lead to diarrhea, Dr. Aziz says.
Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Theres also no evidence to show that putting castor oil in your belly button willrelieve period cramps.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
But those claims can be debunked, too.
Currently, there is no research to support the castor oil in belly button for weight loss narrative.
If anything, weight loss is often a product of a healthy lifestyle rather than the oil itself.
This works to treat wounds (even superficial ones) by creating a moist environment conducive to healing.
If you think thats what youre dealing with, head straight to a healthcare provider.
Claim 5: It supports skin health
Who doesnt enjoy smooth, glowing skin?
Castor oil works on the skin as a natural moisturizer, Dr. Aziz says.
It containsricinoleic acidamonounsaturated fatty acidthat draws moisture from the air into the skin.
It can also help soothe acne breakouts by inhibiting bacterial growth.
(PSA topatch-testyour skincare products before applying them all over!)
But putting it on your scalp?
Now thats up for debate.
But there is still more concrete evidence needed to say for certain.
While its a versatile substance, it can cause internal and external damage if not used properly.
The most common risks include skin irritation and allergic reactions if you happen to be allergic to the oil.
Its always advised to consult with your healthcare provider before using it, Faramarzi says.
The bottom line
So what happens when you put castor oil in your belly button?
Not muchexcept formaybea more moisturized navel.
Finally, there arent many proven health benefits to castor oil in general.
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