It’s an FDA-approved laxative and remedy for constipation, but exactly How Long Does Castor Oil Take to Cleanse Stomach? Let’s find out!
Better known as a stimulant laxative, people widely use castor oil for constipation and even before bowel-related medical examinations or surgery. It improves intestinal movement, helping pass the food along, but if you plan to use castor oil, you should know how long it takes to cleanse the stomach.
How Long Does Castor Oil Take to Cleanse Stomach?
Castor oil contains an active component called ricin or ricinoleic acid, which is a fatty acid that binds to the intestinal walls, stimulating and making them contract to help pass out stool.
Generally, castor oil will cleanse your stomach and cause a bowel movement within 2 or 3 hours. Sometimes, an hour or two more than this. But don’t worry–it’ll get the job done and ease your discomfort. Just make sure you’re not taking castor oil before bedtime because of the timeline in which it starts working.
If there is no change in your condition or if it gets worse (like bleeding from the rectum) after taking castor oil, you must seek medical help immediately.
Note: The oil can have contracting effects on the walls of the uterus as well, which can induce premature labor in pregnant women. If you’re pregnant, avoid it completely.
How to Take Castor Oil to Cleanse Stomach
You must take castor oil on an empty stomach. Since it is quite thick and can be hard to swallow, you could take it with fruit juice, water, or milk. But stay away from any solid foods. Here’s how to take castor oil for cleansing your stomach the right way.
Moreover, you should always choose medicinal castor oil and take it orally as per the dosage instructed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow the instructions on the package or consult with the pharmacist.
Note: Remember, mismeasuring the dose using a tablespoon/teaspoon and taking more than instructed can result in serious side effects. Do not take castor oil for more than 7 days consecutively unless explicitly instructed by your doctor.
Precautions and Side Effects
- Though castor oil is a low-priced alternative to high-end laxatives, it is not recommended for long-term usage as it may cause excessive cramping, diarrhea, and nausea and even cause severe damage to the intestines. For long-term constipation relief, you should switch to a high-fiber diet and use natural aids like olive oils in your food.
- Pregnant women and children below six must avoid taking castor oil as it may pose a health risk. If your child is under 6 years old, you must only give castor oil as per the correct dosage and frequency advised by a pediatrician.
- Avoid taking castor oil if you suffer from medical conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), appendicitis, or if you are over the age of 60. At this age, castor oil may do more harm than good. You can rub a bit of it on the stomach for these benefits.
Since castor oil is mostly used for constipation relief, which may be an effect of improper diet, you must try to make some lifestyle changes. This is important so you don’t resort to castor oil as a long-term solution.