Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- pungent, sweet
- Potency (Virya)
- hot
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- pungent
- Dosha Effect
- Vata, Pitta & Kapha increased
- Tissues
- All
- Systems
- Excretory, urinary, nervous, female reproductive, digestive
What is Castor (Eranda)?
If theres one herb from the classical Ayurvedic cabinet that has quietly become a global household staple — sitting in medicine chests from Mumbai to Minneapolis — its Castor. Grandmothers in India still reach for a spoon of castor oil when a child has a stubborn constipation. Naturopaths in the West still wrap castor oil packs around inflamed joints. Very few people realize theyre using one of Ayurvedas most revered medicines, with over 4,000 years of continuous clinical use behind it.
Castor (Eranda) is the small, soft-wooded tree Ricinus communis Linn. (family Euphorbiaceae). The Sanskrit name Eranda literally means "that which removes disease." Classical Ayurveda considers it the single most important herb for Vata disorders, and especially for Amavata — the condition modern medicine calls rheumatoid arthritis. The Ashtanga Hridaya and Charaka Samhita both describe it as the king of Vayu disorders and the king of purgatives.
What makes Castor unique among Ayurvedas many laxative herbs is that it does not deplete the body. Harsh purgatives like senna strip the intestines and aggravate Vata. Castor oil, by contrast, is a Sneha — a classical oleation substance — so it simultaneously lubricates the tissues while it moves waste. Different parts of the plant are used for different purposes: Eranda Taila (the oil from seeds) is the most famous, but Eranda Patra (leaves) are applied topically for pain and swelling, and Eranda Moola (root) is used in decoctions for arthritis and sciatica (Gridhrasi). Two classical varieties are described — Rakta Eranda (red-stemmed) and Shveta Eranda (white-stemmed) — the latter being preferred for internal medicine.
Benefits of Castor
Rheumatoid Arthritis & Joint Pain (Amavata)
This is Castors signature use in classical Ayurveda. The Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita both name Eranda Taila as the primary medicine for Amavata — a condition of stiff, swollen, painful joints caused by undigested metabolic toxins (Ama) combining with aggravated Vata. The logic is elegant: Castor oil is Vatahara (alleviates Vata), Shothahara (reduces swelling), Vedanasthapana (relieves pain), and gently purgative — so it moves the Ama out of the joints and out of the body in a single action. It remains one of the most-cited herbs for arthritis, gout (Vata-Rakta), and sciatica (Gridhrasi).
Constipation — Without Depletion
Where most purgatives dehydrate and irritate, Castor oil lubricates. The Sharangadhara Samhita prescribes Eranda Taila with Triphala decoction or warm milk for Vibandha (constipation) and Udavarta (reverse peristalsis). Because the oil itself is Snigdha (unctuous), it is one of the few laxatives that can be given to debilitated patients, the elderly, and those with dry, painful hemorrhoids. A small dose softens stool and lubricates the passage; a larger dose produces a complete cleanse. The Ashtanga Hridaya describes it as clearing Koshtha (the gut) without aggravating Vata.
Back Pain, Sciatica & Nerve Pain
Because most nerve and low-back problems are Vata-driven in Ayurvedic thinking, Castor is a first-line herb. Eranda Moola Kwatha (root decoction) is a classical prescription for low back pain (Kati Shula), sciatica, and nerve inflammation (Vata Shotha). Externally, warm castor oil massage over the lower back and hip — sometimes as a castor oil pack — is one of the most accessible home remedies in the tradition.
Abdominal Swelling, Edema & Liver
Castor is a classical herb for edema and swelling (Shotha), Gulma (abdominal masses), and liver and spleen enlargement. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu lists Pleeha Roga (splenic disorders) among its indications. Its warm, penetrating quality (Ushna, Tikshna, Sukshma Guna) breaks up stagnation in the deep channels of the abdomen.
Menstrual Cramps & Uterine Pain
The Charaka Samhita describes Eranda Taila for Yoni Dosha — uterine disorders linked to cold, cramping, and obstructed flow. Warm castor oil rubbed on the lower abdomen before a period is a traditional remedy for cramps, and a castor oil pack over the abdomen is widely used for fibrocystic breast disease and pelvic Vata stagnation. Internal use during pregnancy is contraindicated — see the safety section below.
Hair Growth & Scalp Health
Though classical texts focus more on Castors internal uses, its oil has become one of the most widely used hair oils globally. In Ayurvedic logic, hair health reflects Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue) and Vata balance at the scalp — both of which Castor supports. Its thick, viscous ricinoleic-acid-rich profile coats the shaft and seals the cuticle. Best used blended 1:1 with a lighter carrier (coconut or sesame) because pure castor oil is too thick to wash out easily.
Dry Skin, Boils & Topical Inflammation
Externally, Castor oil is Vrana Ropana (wound-healing) and anti-inflammatory. The Ashtanga Hridaya describes seed poultices applied to ripen boils and swellings, and oil blended with coconut oil and water for itching skin. It is a go-to remedy for dry skin, cracked heels, and localized Vata-type joint and muscle pain where warmth and oleation are needed.
How to Use Castor
Castor is a powerful herb — more than most Ayurvedic medicines, the dose and form matter enormously. Internal castor oil is a strong laxative even in small doses; external castor oil is extraordinarily safe. Here is how classical Ayurveda uses it:
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eranda Taila (castor oil, oral) | 5-10 ml adults; 1 tsp children over 12 | Occasional constipation, Amavata cleanse | At bedtime with warm milk or ginger tea |
| Eranda Taila (therapeutic Amavata dose) | 10-30 ml under supervision | Rheumatoid arthritis flare, acute Ama clearing | Morning, empty stomach with Triphala decoction |
| Eranda Moola Kwatha (root decoction) | 30-60 ml | Sciatica, low back pain, joint pain | Twice daily, before meals |
| Gandharvahastadi Kashaya | 15-30 ml diluted 1:4 with warm water | Vata-driven constipation with pain | Morning, empty stomach |
| Castor oil pack (external) | 1-2 tbsp on flannel | Joint pain, abdominal cramps, liver area | 30-60 min with warm compress, evening |
| Warm oil massage (Abhyanga) | As needed, 15-30 ml blended | Low back, hip, knee Vata pain | Before a warm shower or bath |
| Seed poultice (classical) | External only | Ripening boils, localized swelling | Apply warm, replace 2x daily |
What to Combine It With (Anupana)
The Sharangadhara Samhita specifies that the vehicle used with Eranda Taila changes its action:
- With Triphala decoction — for complete Virechana (therapeutic purgation) in Amavata. Twice the quantity of Triphala tea to the dose of oil.
- With warm milk — the gentlest combination. Best for elderly and for ongoing Vata imbalance with dry constipation.
- With dry ginger (Sunthi) tea — classical for arthritis and cold, stiff joints. Gingers warmth balances the oil.
- With Dashamoola decoction — for deep Vata disorders, post-partum care, and nerve pain.
The Classical Amavata Protocol
For rheumatoid arthritis specifically, the traditional approach is a short course — not daily long-term use. A common protocol: 10-20 ml of Eranda Taila in the morning on an empty stomach with warm ginger or Triphala tea for 3-5 days, producing 3-6 loose motions daily. This is followed by rest and light, warm, easily digested food. The goal is Ama clearance, not ongoing laxation. Repeat courses are spaced weeks apart under practitioner guidance.
External Castor Oil Packs
Soak a flannel cloth in castor oil, apply to the abdomen or affected joint, cover with plastic, and apply a hot water bottle for 30-60 minutes. This is one of the most effective home remedies for liver congestion, abdominal bloating, menstrual cramps, and chronic joint pain — and completely safe.
Varieties
| Variety | Region | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rakta Eranda (Red Castor) | ||
| Shveta Eranda (White Castor) |
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Safety & Side Effects
Castor is a powerful medicine, not a daily tonic. Used correctly — in the right form, the right dose, the right context — it is remarkably effective and classical Ayurveda considers it safe even for debilitated patients. Used carelessly, it can cause real harm. Here is what you need to know.
The Ricin Warning (Raw Seeds)
The whole castor seed contains ricin, one of the most toxic proteins known — a tiny amount of chewed seed can be fatal. Commercial cold-pressing and refining of Eranda Taila removes ricin almost completely (ricin is water-soluble and does not pass into oil), which is why the oil has been safely used for millennia. However:
- Never eat whole or crushed castor seeds. Two to four chewed seeds can kill an adult.
- Never use home-pressed castor oil unless properly processed. Stick to pharmaceutical-grade or reputable Ayurvedic brands.
- Keep the plant and seeds away from children and pets. The beans are attractive and brightly coloured.
Pregnancy — Do Not Use Internally
Although folk tradition historically used castor oil to induce labor, modern obstetrics strongly advises against this. Internal castor oil can trigger unpredictable uterine contractions, maternal dehydration, and fetal distress. Do not take Eranda Taila orally during pregnancy. External castor oil packs on joints or legs are generally considered safe in consultation with a practitioner, but not over the abdomen.
Absolute Contraindications for Internal Use
- Bowel obstruction or suspected appendicitis — a strong laxative here can be life-threatening.
- Active inflammatory bowel disease flare, acute hemorrhoid bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
- Active kidney, bladder, bile-duct, or intestinal infection (noted in classical texts).
- Children under 12 — dose sensitivity is too high; use much gentler alternatives like warm milk with a pinch of ghee.
- Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Side Effects at Therapeutic Doses
Even at correct doses, Castor oil commonly causes:
- Abdominal cramping for 30-90 minutes before the laxative effect begins.
- Watery stools — this is the intended action, not a side effect to push through.
- Dehydration and electrolyte loss if repeated doses are taken. Always rehydrate with warm water and a pinch of salt afterward.
- Nausea from the taste and oiliness — warm milk or ginger tea as the vehicle reduces this.
Long-Term Use Causes Dependency
Classical texts and modern practitioners agree: Castor oil is not for daily, long-term use. Repeated use trains the bowel to depend on it and can worsen chronic constipation over months. For daily digestive support, Triphala, psyllium, or dietary change are the right tools — not Castor. Reserve Castor for acute clearing, Amavata protocols, or under practitioner guidance.
Drug Interactions
No major herb-drug interactions are documented, but as a strong laxative Castor can reduce absorption of oral medications taken within 2-3 hours. Space your medications accordingly. Castor also potentiates other laxatives, diuretics, and can worsen electrolyte imbalance in people on loop diuretics.
External Use is Very Safe
In contrast to internal use, castor oil on skin — massages, packs, hair, scalp — is one of the safest topicals in Ayurveda. Outside of rare contact dermatitis, there are essentially no adverse effects. Patch-test first if you have sensitive skin.
Recommended: Start Here
The safest and highest-value way for most people to start with Castor is external, not internal. A weekly castor oil pack over a stiff joint, sore low back, or congested abdomen gives you the lubricating, anti-inflammatory benefits of Eranda Taila with none of the laxative risks.
Start here: apply a warm castor oil pack over the affected area once or twice a week. Soak a flannel cloth in cold-pressed castor oil, lay it on the area, cover with plastic wrap, and place a hot water bottle or heating pad on top for 30-60 minutes in the evening. This is the single most-used castor remedy in both classical Ayurveda and modern naturopathy.
For specific goals:
- Joint pain / arthritis: Castor oil pack 2x/week over the affected joint + warm castor oil massage on stiff mornings.
- Occasional constipation: 5-10 ml of Eranda Taila at bedtime with warm milk — not more than once a week.
- Low back pain / sciatica: Daily warm castor-oil self-massage on the low back before a warm shower.
- Hair growth: Mix 1 tablespoon castor oil + 2 tablespoons coconut or sesame oil. Massage into scalp, leave overnight, wash out 1-2 times per week.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (Amavata): Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for a structured Virechana protocol — do not self-dose high-volume internal castor oil.
Castor vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Castor is compared to several other remedies — for laxation, for joint pain, for hair, and for topical inflammation. Here is where it genuinely shines, and where something else is the better tool.
| Comparison | Castor | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castor oil vs Coconut oil (hair) | Heavy, thick, ricinoleic-acid rich. Classical Ayurveda links it to scalp Vata balance and coats the shaft for shine. | Light, penetrates the shaft itself. Better for deep conditioning and protein retention. | Blend both. Pure castor is too heavy to wash out; coconut alone lacks the sealing effect. A 1:2 castor-to-coconut mix is the classical Indian hair-oil standard. |
| Castor oil vs Magnesium citrate (laxative) | Lubricating, Sneha-based. Moves stool while oleating the gut. Safe for the elderly and debilitated. | Osmotic — pulls water into the bowel. Predictable, fast, but aggravates Vata and can dehydrate. | Castor is the Ayurvedic first choice for dry, Vata-type constipation with joint pain. Magnesium is the better choice for one-off pre-procedure cleanses or if oil is tolerated poorly. |
| Castor oil pack vs Heat therapy (Vata pain) | Combines oleation (Sneha) and heat (Sweda). Both are classical Vata-pacifying therapies in one step. | Heat alone — dry heat, heating pad, hot water bottle. Relieves tension but does not lubricate tissues. | Castor oil pack is more complete for chronic Vata pain. Plain heat is fine for acute muscle tension. Use the pack 2x/week for lasting change. |
| Eranda vs Triphala (bowel movement) | Lubricating mechanism — oils the bowel and moves impacted stool. Acute, short-term use. | Bulking and toning mechanism — the three fruits regulate all three doshas and tone the gut wall. Safe daily. | Different tools for different problems. Triphala for daily bowel regulation; Castor for occasional stuck constipation or Amavata protocols. |
| Castor oil vs Ricinoleic acid cream (topical) | Whole-oil, tradition-backed, cheap, multi-use (pack, massage, hair, skin). | Isolated active compound — consistent concentration, cosmetically lighter, more expensive. | For therapeutic packs and massage, the whole oil is superior and classical. For daily cosmetic skincare where an oil feels too heavy, ricinoleic-acid cream is reasonable. |
Properties and Uses
Castor oil is a laxative that is safe enough to use even in treating small babies. To treat an infant, the mother should dip her little finger into the oil and let the baby suck on it.
For chronic constipation, one tablespoon of castor oil should be taken with a cup of ginger tea. This tonic will neutralize toxins and relieve gas and constipation.
Castor oil is also an antirheumatic herb because it is a natural pain reliever and laxative.
The tea of the castor root is used in treating many vata disorders, such as arthritis, sciatica, chronic backache and muscle spasms. The tea is also a decongestant, anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory substance. It is also effective in the treatment of gout.
Source: Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing, Chapter XIII: Kitchen Pharmacy (Medicinals)
Castor for Specific Populations
Pregnancy & Nursing
Castor oil has a long folk tradition of being used to induce labor, but modern obstetrics and most contemporary Ayurvedic practitioners advise against this. Internal Eranda Taila during pregnancy can cause unpredictable contractions, maternal dehydration, and fetal distress. Do not take castor oil internally while pregnant.
For nursing mothers, classical texts describe warmed castor leaves applied externally to sore breasts and nipples as a galactagogue and soothing agent — this topical use is considered safe. Internal use is still best avoided while breastfeeding because the oils strong laxative action can pass effects to the infant through milk.
Children
Though older texts describe small doses of castor oil for infant digestive issues, modern practice considers Castor too harsh for children under 12. Dose sensitivity is high, and even small excesses cause significant cramping and dehydration. For pediatric constipation, warm milk with a teaspoon of ghee, ripe papaya, or a gentle dose of Triphala in honey is far safer. External castor oil massage on a stiff neck, cold-stiffened joints, or abdominal bloating is fine.
Elderly
Castor is one of the most valuable herbs for older adults, because Vata naturally increases with age — dry constipation, joint pain, stiffness, and nerve pain are all Vata problems. Classical Ayurveda specifically recommends Eranda Taila for debilitated and elderly patients because, unlike harsh purgatives, it oleates while it clears. Use gentle internal doses (5-10 ml with warm milk at bedtime) only when needed, and rely on regular oil massage and castor oil packs for joint pain.
Arthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
This is Castors flagship population. The Charaka Samhita names Eranda Taila the primary medicine for Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis) — a classical diagnosis matching closely what modern medicine calls RA. The mechanism is targeted: Castor clears the Ama (undigested metabolic toxin) that lodges in joints, while simultaneously pacifying the Vata that drives pain and stiffness. Work with an Ayurvedic physician for a short structured Virechana course rather than self-dosing. Between courses, daily warm castor oil massage on affected joints and weekly castor oil packs form the maintenance layer. Combine with Dashamoola decoction for deeper Vata pacification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is castor oil safe to take internally?
Yes, in the right dose and the right context. Commercial, cold-pressed, pharmaceutical-grade castor oil does not contain the ricin found in whole seeds. Classical Ayurveda has used it internally for over 4,000 years. However, it is a powerful laxative — not a daily tonic — and there are specific contraindications (pregnancy, bowel obstruction, suspected appendicitis, acute infections, children under 12). Stick to occasional use of 5-10 ml or work with a practitioner for therapeutic protocols.
What does "Eranda" mean?
Eranda is Sanskrit for "that which removes disease." The name reflects the plants reputation across classical texts as a wide-spectrum remedy, especially for Vata disorders. Eranda Taila means castor oil specifically; Eranda Patra is the leaf; Eranda Moola is the root — each used in different preparations.
Why is Castor called the king of Vata disorders?
The Ashtanga Hridaya gives it this title because Castor addresses Vata simultaneously through three pathways: it is oleating (Snigdha), warming (Ushna), and moving (Anulomana). Vata is the dosha of dryness, cold, and erratic movement — so an oil that is lubricating, warm, and direction-restoring matches every Vata problem at once. This is why it is the top classical herb for Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis), sciatica, and Vata-type constipation.
Are castor oil packs real medicine or a fad?
They are a classical Ayurvedic therapy — a combination of Sneha (oleation) and Sweda (fomentation), the two foundational Vata-pacifying techniques. Modern clinical research on castor oil packs is limited, but the individual mechanisms (warm oil improving local circulation, ricinoleic acid reducing local inflammation) are well-established. They are one of the safest self-care options for chronic joint pain, menstrual cramps, and liver-area congestion.
Can I use castor oil every day?
Externally, yes — daily oil massage or scalp application is safe. Internally, no. Daily internal use of Eranda Taila causes laxative dependency and dehydration. For daily bowel regulation, use Triphala or dietary fiber instead. Reserve internal castor oil for occasional acute constipation or structured Amavata protocols.
Castor oil vs Triphala — which should I take for constipation?
For daily, mild-to-moderate constipation, Triphala is the right tool — it is tonifying, tri-dosha balancing, and safe for long-term use. Castor oil is stronger and faster but is meant for occasional use or therapeutic Virechana protocols. A common pattern: Triphala nightly as your baseline, with occasional Eranda Taila for stubborn episodes.
Will castor oil actually help my hair grow?
There is no strong clinical evidence that castor oil directly increases hair growth rate. What it does do: seal the cuticle, reduce breakage, soothe an inflamed scalp, and improve apparent thickness and shine. Classical Ayurveda also credits it with pacifying scalp Vata, which is linked to dryness and thinning. Blend with coconut or sesame oil (straight castor is too thick to rinse out cleanly) and use 1-2 times per week.
How to Use Castor Oil Plant by Condition
Explore how Castor Oil Plant is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (10 sources)
Classical Therapeutic Uses
- Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis)
- Vatarakta (gout)
- Shotha (swelling/edema)
- Gulma (abdominal tumors)
- Udavarta (upward movement of Vata)
- Vibandha (constipation)
- Pleeha Roga (splenic disorders)
- Yoni Dosha (uterine disorders)
- Jwara (fever)
- Kati Shoola (low back pain)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
References in Astanga Hridaya
Oil of Eranda – (Castor oil benefits) :स त तो णमैर डं तैलं वाद ु सरं ग ु व मगु मा नलकफानुदरं वषम वरम ् ५७ शोफौ च कट गु यको ठप ृ ठा यौ जयेत ् ती णो णं पि छलं व ं , र तैर डो वं व व त ५८ Castor oil is bitter, pungent and sweet in taste, Sara – promotes natural movement of body fluids (laxative), Guru – hard to digest, Useful in Vardhma - enlargement of the scrotum (hernia), Gulma – abdominal tumors, Anila kaphahara – diseases caused by Vata and Kapha, Udara – ascites Vishama jwara – intermitt
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Oil of Eranda – (Castor oil benefits) :स त तो णमैर डं तैलं वाद ु सरं ग ु व मगु मा नलकफानुदरं वषम वरम ् ५७ शोफौ च कट गु यको ठप ृ ठा यौ जयेत ् ती णो णं पि छलं व ं , र तैर डो वं व व त ५८ Castor oil is bitter, pungent and sweet in taste, Sara – promotes natural movement of body fluids (laxative), Guru – hard to digest, Useful in Vardhma - enlargement of the scrotum (hernia), Gulma – abdominal tumors, Anila kaphahara – diseases caused by Vata and Kapha, Udara – ascites Vishama jwara – intermitt
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Oil of red variety of castor seeds is still more penetrating, hot in potency and sticky and has a bad smell.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Notes :- Castor oil is used for medicinal purpose to produce purgation to relieve pains and reduce swelling etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
The above two – laghu and mahat panchamoola constitute Dashamoola बलापन ु नवैर डशप ू पण वयेन तु म यमं कफवात नं ना त प तकरं सरम ् Bala, punarnava, eranda, surpaparni dvaya (masaparni and mundgaparni) together from the madhyama pancamula.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
त वि ति तरप ा यगोधालवक प जलाः एर डेनाि नना स ा त तैलेन वमूि छताः Meat of Tittiri, peacock, Godha (Iguana lziard), Lava (common quail), Kapinjala, cooked by the fire of wood ofcastor and processed with, fried in castor oil is lethal.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 7: Anna Raksha Vidhi
any kind of grains, all substances having pleasant smell, roots of Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) and Castor (Eranda); or meat; उ तलवणैः नेहचु त पयः लुतैः केवले पवने , ले मसं ु टे सरु सा द भः प तेन प का यै तु सा वणा यैः पुनः पुनः each one added with more of salt, fats-oil ghee etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 17: Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
6-7 a Drava Sweda – श व ु ारणकैर डकर जसरु साजकात ् शर षवासांवशाक मालती द घव ृ ततः प ंम गैवचा यै च मांसै चानूपवा रजैः दशमूलेन च प ृथक् स हतेवा यथामलम ् नेहव ः सुराशु तवा र ीरा दसा धतैः कु भीगल तीनाडीवा पूर य वा जा दतंम ् वाससा अ छा दतं गा ं ि न धं स चे यथासुखम ् Warm liquid is prepared by boiling bits of leaves of drumstick, Varanaka ,Eranda – (Castor – Ricinus communis), Karanja, Surasa, Arjaka, Shireesa, Vasa , Vamsha, Arka, Malati (Jasmine) or Dirghvrinta, with drugs of vachadigana – v
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 17: Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
any kind of grains, all substances having pleasant smell, roots of Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) and Castor (Eranda); or meat; उ तलवणैः नेहचु त पयः लुतैः केवले पवने , ले मसं ु टे सरु सा द भः प तेन प का यै तु सा वणा यैः पुनः पुनः each one added with more of salt, fats-oil ghee etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 17: Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
6-7 a Drava Sweda – श व ु ारणकैर डकर जसरु साजकात ् शर षवासांवशाक मालती द घव ृ ततः प ंम गैवचा यै च मांसै चानूपवा रजैः दशमूलेन च प ृथक् स हतेवा यथामलम ् नेहव ः सुराशु तवा र ीरा दसा धतैः कु भीगल तीनाडीवा पूर य वा जा दतंम ् वाससा अ छा दतं गा ं ि न धं स चे यथासुखम ् Warm liquid is prepared by boiling bits of leaves of drumstick, Varanaka ,Eranda – (Castor – Ricinus communis), Karanja, Surasa, Arjaka, Shireesa, Vasa , Vamsha, Arka, Malati (Jasmine) or Dirghvrinta, with drugs of vachadigana – v
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 17: Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
Snigdha Virechana- done by fatty purgative, such as a castor oil.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 18: Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Such as Castor oil mixed with Haritaki.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 18: Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Source: Astanga Hridaya, Ch. 5, Ch. 5, Ch. 5, Ch. 5, Ch. 6, Ch. 7, Ch. 17, Ch. 17, Ch. 17, Ch. 17, Ch. 18, Ch. 18
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
Oil of Eranda – (Castor oil benefits) :स त तो णमैर डं तैलं वाद ु सरं ग ु व मगु मा नलकफानुदरं वषम वरम ् ५७ शोफौ च कट गु यको ठप ृ ठा यौ जयेत ् ती णो णं पि छलं व ं , र तैर डो वं व व त ५८ Castor oil is bitter, pungent and sweet in taste, Sara – promotes natural movement of body fluids (laxative), Guru – hard to digest, Useful in Vardhma - enlargement of the scrotum (hernia), Gulma – abdominal tumors, Anila kaphahara – diseases caused by Vata and Kapha, Udara – ascites Vishama jwara – intermitt
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Notes :- Castor oil is used for medicinal purpose to produce purgation to relieve pains and reduce swelling etc.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
त वि ति तरप ा यगोधालवक प जलाः एर डेनाि नना स ा त तैलेन वमूि छताः Meat of Tittiri, peacock, Godha (Iguana lziard), Lava (common quail), Kapinjala, cooked by the fire of wood ofcastor and processed with, fried in castor oil is lethal.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Anna Raksha Vidhi
Snigdha Virechana- done by fatty purgative, such as a castor oil.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Such as Castor oil mixed with Haritaki.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables; Anna Raksha Vidhi; Vamana Virechana Vidhi
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
Oil of Eranda – (Castor oil benefits) :स त तो णमैर डं तैलं वाद ु सरं ग ु व मगु मा नलकफानुदरं वषम वरम ् ५७ शोफौ च कट गु यको ठप ृ ठा यौ जयेत ् ती णो णं पि छलं व ं , र तैर डो वं व व त ५८ Castor oil is bitter, pungent and sweet in taste, Sara – promotes natural movement of body fluids (laxative), Guru – hard to digest, Useful in Vardhma - enlargement of the scrotum (hernia), Gulma – abdominal tumors, Anila kaphahara – diseases caused by Vata and Kapha, Udara – ascites Vishama jwara – intermitt
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Oil of red variety of castor seeds is still more penetrating, hot in potency and sticky and has a bad smell.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
त वि ति तरप ा यगोधालवक प जलाः एर डेनाि नना स ा त तैलेन वमूि छताः Meat of Tittiri, peacock, Godha (Iguana lziard), Lava (common quail), Kapinjala, cooked by the fire of wood ofcastor and processed with, fried in castor oil is lethal.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Anna Raksha Vidhi
any kind of grains, all substances having pleasant smell, roots of Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) and Castor (Eranda);
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
6-7 a Drava Sweda – श व ु ारणकैर डकर जसरु साजकात ् शर षवासांवशाक मालती द घव ृ ततः प ंम गैवचा यै च मांसै चानूपवा रजैः दशमूलेन च प ृथक् स हतेवा यथामलम ् नेहव ः सुराशु तवा र ीरा दसा धतैः कु भीगल तीनाडीवा पूर य वा जा दतंम ् वाससा अ छा दतं गा ं ि न धं स चे यथासुखम ् Warm liquid is prepared by boiling bits of leaves of drumstick, Varanaka ,Eranda – (Castor – Ricinus communis), Karanja, Surasa, Arjaka, Shireesa, Vasa , Vamsha, Arka, Malati (Jasmine) or Dirghvrinta, with drugs of vachadigana – v
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables; Anna Raksha Vidhi; Swedana Vidhi Sudatuin Therapy /
References in Charaka Samhita
Anuvasana basti (oily enema) should be given with eranda taila (castor oil) or tila taila (sesame oil) processed with sour and anti vata drugs [65].
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
In condition where kapha is afflicted with morbid vata and pitta or where vata is overlaid by kapha and pitta, it should be treated by oral medication of eranda taila (oil of Ricinus communis) processed with relevant herbs that cure the morbid dosha.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
In the patient whom dosha are excessively aggravated should be given eranda taila (castor oil) with milk for purgation.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 29: Gout Treatment (Vatarakta Chikitsa / वातरक्तचिकित्सा)
If there is retention of feces and flatus, the patient may be given castor oil with milk or with meat-soup before meal;
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Anuvasana basti (oily enema) should be given with eranda taila (castor oil) or tila taila (sesame oil) processed with sour and anti vata drugs [65].
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 29: Gout Treatment (Vatarakta Chikitsa / वातरक्तचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
References in Charaka Samhita
Milk prepared with dry ginger and daruharidra or prepared with shyama, castor root and black pepper, or prepared with cinnamon, devadaru, punarnava and dry ginger;
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
If there is retention of feces and flatus, the patient may be given castor oil with milk or with meat-soup before meal;
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Anuvasana basti (oily enema) should be given with eranda taila (castor oil) or tila taila (sesame oil) processed with sour and anti vata drugs [65].
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
[26] (If the vata is obstructed by fat, kapha, pitta or rakta (vitiated blood) in the disease like gulma (lump like feeling in abdomen), udara (abdominal diseases includes ascites), bradhna (inguinal swelling), piles, splenic enlargement, udavarta (abnormal upward movement of vata), yoni-roga (gynecological diseases), seminal disorders, disorders of fat by the vitiation of kapha, deep-seated vatarakta (gout), sciatica, hemiplegia etc and in such vatika disorders wherein purgation therapy is reco
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 26: Three Vital Organs Treatment (Trimarmiya Chikitsa / त्रिमर्मीयचिकित्सा)
[29-30] Castor oil should be administered up to the dose of five pala depending on the strength of the person, nature of disease, and the koshta.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 26: Three Vital Organs Treatment (Trimarmiya Chikitsa / त्रिमर्मीयचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 26: Three Vital Organs Treatment (Trimarmiya Chikitsa / त्रिमर्मीयचिकित्सा)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
Eranda Taila (castor oil, Ricinus communis) taken with twice the quantity of Triphala decoction or with milk produces purgation without delay.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 4: Virechana Vidhi (Purgation Therapy)
Kushtha (Saussurea lappa) ground with castor oil (Eranda Taila, Ricinus communis) and Kanjika, applied as a paste on the head, destroys Vata-type headache (Vataja Shirah Pida).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Purgation (rechana) should be done using Pita (Fumaria indica), Mulya, Abhaya (Terminalia chebula), Dhatri (Emblica officinalis/Amla), Dracha, Aragvadha (Cassia fistula), and Saindhava (rock salt) — using their juice or powder, or with castor oil (eranda taila).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 1: Diseases of the Liver (Yakrit Roga Adhikara)
Eranda taila (castor oil) is a classic purgative vehicle.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 1: Diseases of the Liver (Yakrit Roga Adhikara)
Powder of Abhaya (Terminalia chebula, haritaki) roasted well in Eranda taila (Ricinus communis, castor oil), combined with Krishnaa (long pepper, Piper longum) and Saindhava (rock salt) — this is the supreme remedy for Bradhna disease.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 27: Various Diseases (Vividha Roga)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 4: Virechana Vidhi (Purgation Therapy); Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application); Parishishtam, Chapter 1: Diseases of the Liver (Yakrit Roga Adhikara); Parishishtam, Chapter 27: Various Diseases (Vividha Roga)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
That which penetrates the subtle channels (Sukshma-chhidra) of the body is called Sukshma (subtle/penetrating), like Saindhava (rock salt), honey, Nimba taila (neem oil), and substances born of Eru (castor).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
Shunthi (dry ginger — Zingiber officinale) powder, slightly smeared with ghee, should be wrapped in Eranda (castor — Ricinus communis) leaves and roasted by the Putapaka method over gentle fire.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.)
Shatapushpa (dill), Devadaru (Cedrus deodara), Shephali (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis), Sthula Jiraka (cumin), Eranda Mula (castor root) and seeds, Rasna, Mulaka (radish), and Shigru (Moringa oleifera).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 2: Sveda Vidhi (Sudation Therapy)
Eranda Taila (castor oil, Ricinus communis) taken with twice the quantity of Triphala decoction or with milk produces purgation without delay.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 4: Virechana Vidhi (Purgation Therapy)
Castor oil with Triphala decoction is a classic, gentle purgative combination widely used in Ayurvedic practice.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 4: Virechana Vidhi (Purgation Therapy)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.); Uttara Khanda, Chapter 2: Sveda Vidhi (Sudation Therapy); Uttara Khanda, Chapter 4: Virechana Vidhi (Purgation Therapy)
References in Sushruta Samhita
Castor oil (eranda taila) is sweet, hot in potency, pungent in digestion, stimulates digestion, is subtle, astringent in after-taste, purifying, and cures channel-blockage, Kapha disorders, and fat.
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 45: Dravadravya-vidhi Adhyaya - On Liquid Substances
Castor oil (eranda taila) is sweet, hot in potency, pungent in digestion, stimulates digestion, is subtle, astringent in after-taste, purifying, and cures channel-blockage, Kapha disorders, and fat.
— Sushruta Samhita, Dravadravya-vidhi Adhyaya - On Liquid Substances
Among oils, castor oil (eranda) is best.
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 44: Virechana-dravya-vikalpa-vijnaniya Adhyaya - On Purgative Drug Preparations
Castor oil (eranda taila) is sweet, hot in potency, pungent in digestion, stimulates digestion, is subtle, astringent in after-taste, purifying, and cures channel-blockage, Kapha disorders, and fat.
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 45: Dravadravya-vidhi Adhyaya - On Liquid Substances
Condition Treatment General Udara Castor oil with milk or cow's urine for a month or two;
— Sushruta Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 14: Udara Chikitsa
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 45: Dravadravya-vidhi Adhyaya - On Liquid Substances; Dravadravya-vidhi Adhyaya - On Liquid Substances; Sutra Sthana, Chapter 44: Virechana-dravya-vikalpa-vijnaniya Adhyaya - On Purgative Drug Preparations; Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 14: Udara Chikitsa
References in Sushruta Samhita
Milk boiled with eranda (castor) leaves, roots, or bark, and with roots of kashaya herbs — lukewarm, is beneficial for irrigation (sechana).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 9: Vatabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Vata-type Conjunctivitis)
Kapittha (wood apple), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Tarkari, Vamshi (bamboo), Gandharva-hastaka (castor), and Kuberakshi should be used for sprinkling on children.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 35: Mukhamandakapratishedha
All these should be mixed together and well-wrapped in leaves of kashmari (Gmelina arborea), kumuda (lotus), eranda (castor), dhinika, or kadali (banana).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 18: Chapter 18
Eranda (castor) root in equal measure, with double the portion of brihati.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 18: Chapter 18
The wise physician should administer erandamula (castor root) preparations or bala taila.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 26: Chapter 26
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 9: Vatabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Vata-type Conjunctivitis); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 35: Mukhamandakapratishedha; Uttara Tantra, Chapter 18: Chapter 18; Uttara Tantra, Chapter 26: Chapter 26
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