TikTok and Instagram have turned many old remedies into trending topics, and one of the latest to catch attention is rubbing castor oil in the belly button. This practice—also called navel pulling or navel oiling—has been around for thousands of years in traditional wellness circles. Now, it's making a comeback on social media, with many people claiming it helps ease bloating, supports digestion, and even helps maintain emotional balance.
But how much of this is true? Is this just another online trend, or is there more to the belly button castor oil buzz? Let’s explore what’s really going on castor oil in belly button trend, health benefits & risks.
What Is Castor Oil and Why the Belly Button?
Castor oil is a thick, vegetable-based oil made from the seeds of the castor plant. It’s been used for thousands of years in wellness rituals due to its deep absorption and sticky texture that holds nutrients against the skin.
Your belly button, or navel, isn’t just a scar from when your umbilical cord was cut. It’s connected to many blood vessels and nerves beneath the surface, which some believe makes it a powerful point for delivering nourishment or triggering responses in the body.
That’s why putting oil in the belly button—especially castor oil—is gaining attention.
What Is Navel Pulling with Castor Oil?
Navel pulling refers to the act of applying or rubbing oil around the belly button area to “pull” toxins or help support internal balance. While this might sound unusual, it’s closely tied to the idea that different parts of the belly correspond with different systems in the body.
When it comes to navel pulling with castor oil, people either:
- Rub a small amount of castor oil directly into the belly button
- Soak a cotton pad in castor oil and let it sit over the navel
- Use a castor oil pack—a piece of cloth soaked in castor oil, placed over the lower belly, and sometimes heated
This practice is usually done before bed or when relaxing, allowing the body time to absorb the oil slowly.
What Are the Possible Health Benefits?
Here are some of the commonly shared benefits that people associate with rubbing castor oil in the belly button:
Many who try navel oiling say it helps ease bloating and supports smoother bowel movements. Since the lower abdomen is connected to the gut, the belief is that applying oil there may help smoother digestion or bring comfort during bloating.
- Supporting Skin Softness Around the Belly
Castor oil is naturally thick and hydrating. Some users find that regular use around the belly button helps keep the skin soft and nourished.
- Helping Maintain Emotional Calm
Anecdotally, some people say that rubbing castor oil in the belly button helps them feel more grounded. This could be tied to the idea of activating nerve points in the stomach area, which are believed to be connected to emotions.
How to Apply Castor Oil to the Belly Button
If you’re curious to try this trend, here’s a simple way to go about it:
Step 1: Choose cold-pressed, hexane-free castor oil
Step 2: Lie down comfortably and apply a few drops directly into your belly button
Step 3: Gently rub in circular motions for 1–2 minutes
Step 4: Cover with a cloth or cotton pad if you want to avoid staining clothes
Step 5: Relax for at least 15–30 minutes, or leave it overnight if comfortable
Alternatively, try a castor oil pack for deeper absorption. Just soak a flannel cloth in warm castor oil, place it over your belly, and rest with a towel or wrap on top.
What Does Social Media Say?
On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, thousands of users are sharing their experiences with this trend. Many describe it as a nighttime self-care ritual that helps calm their mind and body. From bloating and digestive discomforts to emotional stress, people claim a wide range of benefits—though most admit it may not be instant.
What makes this trend so popular is how easy and low-cost it is to try. But it’s also important to remember that results vary widely.
Potential Side Effects and What to Watch For
While castor oil is generally safe for skin, there are still a few things to keep in mind:
- Skin Irritation: Some people may experience redness or itching, especially if they have sensitive skin. Always do a patch test before regular use.
- Staining: Castor oil is thick and sticky. It can stain clothing or bedding, so use an old towel or wear dark clothing after applying it.
- Messiness: The oil’s texture can be hard to clean up, especially if you apply too much. Start with a small amount.
- Allergies: Though rare, allergic reactions are possible. Stop use if any unusual symptoms appear.
What Science Says So Far
There’s limited scientific research directly linking oil in your belly with internal health effects. However, some studies do show that topical castor oil has natural properties that may support the skin barrier and help ease discomfort in certain areas.
More research is needed to fully understand how effective belly button oiling is for internal issues like digestion or mood. Still, as a calming ritual, it seems to offer a low-risk way to connect with your body.
Final Thoughts
The castor oil in belly button trend is a blend of ancient tradition and modern curiosity. Whether it’s used to help ease bloating, encourage smoother bowel movements, or simply offer a moment of calm, this practice is gaining attention for a reason.
While the scientific evidence is still catching up, many people enjoy the routine as part of their self-care. If you're curious, start slow, observe how your body responds, and be mindful of any discomfort.
It might just be another viral trend—or it could become your new favorite wellness habit. Either way, listening to your body is always the best guide.
