Old-Time Remedies That Have Worked For Me and My Clients

I hope that I am a resource for healing information for my clients but I also have learned a lot from them. Two old-fashioned remedies that really work are castor oil compresses for fibrosis and cabbage leaf compresses for inflammation.

I first heard of using castor oil compresses for fibrosis in lymphedema at a Vodder School recertification held in Stowe, Vermont. Castor oil compresses are frequently used on the abdomen by naturopaths but this was the first time I heard someone describe using them to soften fibrotic issue.

Simply saturate a flannel with the oil (yes, this is messy), apply it to the area and cover it with plastic wrap.  The castor oil is sticky and the wrap keeps it contained and also helps trap body heat, thus warming the compress.  Leave on for as long as you can, probably at least an hour, then clean with gentle soap and water and pat dry.

Cabbage leaf compresses are often used on the breast for mastitis, but they actually fit nicely on a shoulder or knee joint.  Take a large cabbage leaf – it can be either regular or Savoy but I think green is better than red- and cut out the thick piece at the stem end so that it lays flat on the counter.  Bruise the membranes of the leaf with a rolling pin and drape it over the inflamed area.  Leave it on for 30-60 minutes.  This is highly anti-inflammatory and feels cool and soothing.  Then look for a good recipe for the rest of the cabbage!