What is castor oil used for and why has it gone viral on TikTok?

On the radar of ingredients resurfacing from the botanical archive straight to the algorithm, castor oil is undoubtedly the unexpected star of the season. It’s not new—its history is millennia-old—but it’s now being applied as a multi-purpose object of desire, one that promises everything from thick eyebrows to flat stomachs… literally.

In the midst of the 2.0 ritualism boom, TikTok has turned it into a trending topic, a beauty tool, and a spiritual hack all at the same time. The latest plot twist? Apply it to your belly button at night, cover it with a cotton ball or gauze, and wake up with the sensation of a less bloated abdomen and more balanced energy. And yes, it sounds like mystical wellness with a #CleanGirl aesthetic, but the trend has millions of views.

First the basics: What is castor oil?

Obtained from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, it’s thick, almost sticky, and brimming with properties: ricinoleic acid, with an anti-inflammatory effect; omega-9, which retains moisture; and an antimicrobial profile ideal for compromised skin. Historically, it’s been a remedy, an ointment, a laxative, and now… a viral balm.

The classic use: from eyebrows to scalp

Before the umbilical cord boom, castor oil had already taken over TikTok. It has become a staple for: Strengthening eyelashes and eyebrows; Sealing in moisture in lips; Preventing hair loss from the root; Adding shine and texture to dry hair.

Results, however, require consistency more than magic. It’s not a miracle growth serum, but it does create a healthy environment for the hair follicle to flourish. It cares, protects and repairs, but it does not invent where there is no basis.

The Castor Oil Patch on the Belly Button

This is where the ancient and TikTok-core intersect. The trend involves applying a few drops of castor oil to the belly button before bed, covering it with cotton, and securing it with a patch or tape. According to viral videos, this mini ritual helps: Reduce abdominal swelling; Improve digestion; Relieve menstrual cramps; Stabilize the body’s energy flow (yes, there’s a mystique behind it).

This use is inspired by Ayurvedic practices and traditional Chinese medicine, where the navel is considered a key energy point, something like the body’s operations center. What’s fascinating is how this ancient knowledge.

Does it work or is it a viral placebo?

The science is ambiguous. While the oil’s topical benefits are documented, its application to the navel still lacks solid clinical support. But what is certain is that the navel area is highly vascular, and applying oils there can promote nutrient absorption and a relaxing effect. A detox miracle or mindfulness disguised as skincare? Perhaps both. Just be careful with: Acne-prone or sensitive skin (especially if you use it on your face); Possible allergic reactions (always patch test); A mild laxative effect if ingested (although this practice is not recommended).

Castor oil is experiencing its definitive glow-up. Between its traditional applications, its boom on TikTok beauty, and this holistic twist that positions it as a body-mind-ritual product, it’s a clear example of how old-school can become the new luxury when it intersects with digital aesthetics. Tip: Mix it with jojoba oil for a lighter, less sticky texture, or with a few drops of lavender if you’re using it on your belly button for a better night’s sleep.

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