Oilypedia.com – Benefits And Uses Of Supplemental and Essential Oils 
Castor oil for constipation is a good natural choice. Castor oil is a vegetable oil. It is extracted from the seeds of the castor oil plant. According to Wikipedia the main component of the oil is the ricinoleic acid. It is an unsaturated fatty acid which contributes to the use of castor oil for constipation.
How does castor oil work?
Castor oil has been used for constipation treatment in Egypt, India and China since ancient times. According to Wikipedia the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the application of the oil as a laxative remedy sold over-the-counter. The effect of castor oil for constipation takes place due to the above-mentioned ricinoleic acid.
- The acid stimulates the work of prostaglandin receptors EP3 and EP4 in the small intestines. These receptors induce peristalsis, the contraction and relaxation of muscles in the intestines.
- Moreover, castor oil lessens the liquid absorption from the intestinal tract. As the amount of fluid in the bowel is increased it leads to the less difficult passage of the stool.
SEE ALSO: Does Olive Oil Help for Constipation?
Dosage of castor oil for constipation relief
Castor oil is taken internally. According to Dr.Mercola and World Health Organization the castor oil intake should not prevail 0.7 mg/kg body weight per day. It is one tablespoon for adults and one teaspoon for children.
As the overdose of castor oil for constipation is not allowed and as castor oil has side effects in this case you should strictly follow the instructions of your doctor or the instructions written on the package.
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Side effects of castor oil for constipation
The long-term use of castor oil should be avoided. It is possible to take the oil for 3-7 days. Longer intake may influence the normal absorption of nutrients so it leads to the electrolyte and nutritional imbalance. So take castor oil for severe constipation. Moreover, the oil may have side effects. It evokes nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal disorders in some people. It is forbidden for pregnant women.
