How to Use Castor Oil for a Cold in a Baby

Castor oil, derived from the castor bean, is an ingredient commonly used in soaps, inks, and plastics, and is also believed to have medicinal properties. For past generations the memories of daily doses of castor oil remain all too vivid. Fortunately for our taste-buds, topical application of castor oil is more popular today. Castor oil reduces inflammation and congestion both of which add to the misery of the common cold. Because it is a non-toxic natural compound it is safe for use with babies and small children.

Things You'll Need

  • Castor oil
  • Cotton swab (optional)
  • White woolen or cotton fabric (optional)

Instructions

    • 1

      Reduce congestion by gently rubbing a cotton swab soaked in castor oil inside the child's nostrils.

    • 2

      Place a dime-sized drop of castor oil on your palm and rub it onto the baby's chest and abdominal area to loosen chest congestion and help with breathing.

    • 3

      Make a castor oil pack. Fold wool or cotton fabric several times and soak it in castor oil. Use a sufficient amount of fabric to contain the oil for several applications. Make sure the fabric is moist but not dripping. Apply this pack to the chest to loosen congestion. Abdominal applications of castor-oil packs have also been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of lymphocytes.

    • 4

      Apply castor oil to the abdomen if the baby has a tight belly after eating and/or is gassy.

    • 5

      Apply a dime-sized drop of castor oil on cuts or scratches and rub it in. The castor oil acts as a disinfectant and promotes healing.

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