Dr. Murthy agrees that there are benefits to using castor oil packs for comfort, warmth and relaxation, but he just can’t go as far as to suggest that applying castor oil topically can do much to help with aiding digestion. It’s also not recommended to use a castor oil pack during menstruation, as it can increase cramping and, in some instances, bleeding.

Castor oil contains something called ricinoleic acid, which stimulates smooth muscle (the small and large intestines each contain multiple layers) and can mimic the effects of a laxative. Taking castor oil orally, though, is not recommended for many people (including pregnant women), as it can trigger “uterine-stimulation,” or early labour, and interact with certain medications.

It’s tricky, feeling certain that something works for me but being told—at almost every turn—that it can’t possibly. Perhaps it’s a combination of the stomach massage I do as I apply the oil with all of my other efforts to support my digestion, but I have found that castor oil stomach wraps have helped alleviate half a decade’s worth of waking up feeling sluggish, heavy and full. To me, that’s reason enough to keep doing them.

“Use them as a soothing, low-risk ritual rather than a cure-all,” Dr. Murthy advises, noting that the skin absorption of castor oil is much lower than when it’s ingested. “For liver detoxification or hormone balance, the science isn’t there yet. Instead, focus on sleep, fiber, protein, cruciferous vegetables, exercise, and alcohol moderation, where the benefits have been proven.”

The trick, I’ve found, is not to treat my slow-moving digestion as something that can be cured, but instead as something to support. In my toolbox: castor oil wraps, stomach massage, a nightly magnesium drink, and bucket loads of warm water.  Add in getting enough proper sleep, not skimping on fiber, and gentle daily movement, and I’m in a good place.