But does it really work?

Before you rush to apply castor oil all over your belly button, know this: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that the gland actually exists.

Because the navel is a “sealed orifice,” oiling it is “not much different, in my opinion, from applying it (oils) to the forearm, the back of the knee, the elbow or whatever.” something like that”, David Harder, clinical herbalist, told USA Today.

Many experts say the health benefits of navel oil are greatly exaggerated and may give false hope to patients in need.

Sarah Jenkins, GP and women’s health expert, told Healthline that the promotion of castor oil as a treatment for serious illnesses such as hernias, cysts, fibroids or endometriosis “is responsible and harmful to the people who suffer from them”.

These people need scientifically proven interventions, not health hacks that help line the pockets of influencers selling the oil as a miracle therapy online, according to Rabia De Latour, a gastroenterologist.

“I really think this whole methodology of practicing health care and healing has been appropriated by people who have no knowledge, no family history, nothing to back up their claims,” De Latour said. told Rolling Stone.

But what if you want to try it anyway?

However, some experts say there is no harm in belly button pulling. Even if castor oil doesn’t transform your health, it could hydrate your skin or provide a soothing feeling thanks to its omega fatty acids, according to Gowri Rocco, a doctor of regenerative and functional medicine.

“I still recommend it because even though we don’t have enough scientific evidence on it, it’s a really nice, natural way to detox,” she said. CNBC. Additionally, massaging the area could stimulate your lymphatic system, helping to relieve these digestive issues.

For those hoping that belly button pulling can help them achieve a flat stomach, don’t worry too much. Science does not consider this technique to be an effective method of weight loss on its own, but if chronic stress is a contributing factor to a person’s weight gain and they find it a calming tool, they could end up lose unwanted weight when used in conjunction with diet and exercise, Gabrielle McCauley told Healthline.

Another way to use it

Ingesting castor oil might also have some health benefits. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration has approved its use as an oral stimulant laxative, which could help people looking to relieve stomach problems like constipation.

Considering trying castor oil to ease your tummy issues? Consuming it orally poses certain risks, such as electrolyte imbalance and cramps. Pregnant people should also exercise caution as this could cause them to go into premature contractions.