The Viral Castor Oil in Belly Button Trend—What a Doctor Wants You to Know

From slugging to mouth-taping, social media is full of wellness trends claiming to fix just about anything. The latest? Putting castor oil in your belly button, also known as navel pulling.

This TikTok-driven trend has people swearing by its ability to relieve constipation, reduce bloating and period cramps, improve sleep and even detox the body. But does science back it up?

Below, a gastroenterologist and a holistic nutrition expert weigh in on the supposed benefits of navel pulling, the science behind it and whether there are any risks.

What is navel pulling?

Navel pulling involves applying or massaging castor oil onto (or into) the belly button and abdomen. Some also use castor oil packs—cloths soaked in castor oil and applied to the skin—with claims that they help digestion, bloating and constipation.

But according to gastroenterologist Lisa Ganjhu, the practice is not a medical procedure and may have roots in Ayurvedic traditions.

“There are no studies to show it can provide benefits,” Dr Ganjhu says. While castor oil is known for its laxative effects when taken orally, research on its benefits when applied topically is lacking.

Castor oil in belly button benefits

There is no scientific evidence to support applying castor oil to the belly button, using castor oil packs, or practising navel pulling.

Some people claim it relieves constipation, but Dr Ganjhu is doubtful.

“When applying castor oil to your belly button, the oil is not directly interacting with your digestive tract, and it’s not going into your gut,” she says. However, castor oil has been used orally as a stimulant laxative to help move stool along the digestive tract—but that is not the same as navel pulling.

If you’re considering using castor oil or any laxative, always consult your doctor first.

Does navel pulling with castor oil help with bloating and digestion?

More research is needed to confirm whether navel pulling has any benefits, but the practice typically involves massaging the oil into the stomach.

According to holistic nutrition specialist Jen Silverman,  this massage—not the castor oil itself—may be the real reason for any perceived relief.

“Massaging the abdomen in a circular motion may increase gastric motility, which can help with bloating and digestion,” she explains. Both Silverman and Dr Ganjhu agree that any oil can be used, as it’s the massage that provides digestive benefits, not the oil itself.

Side effects of castor oil in belly button

If you’re thinking of giving navel pulling a try, Dr Ganjhu advises caution.

“When putting something in your belly button, you run the risk of infection or irritation,” she explains. Before trying any new topical product, always patch test on a small area of skin to check for allergic reactions or irritation. If you’re looking for proven ways to relieve bloating, consider evidence-backed methods instead.

Natural ways to reduce bloating

Reducing bloating starts with staying hydrated, moving your body and eating a well-balanced diet. Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and helps prevent fluid retention. Regular physical activity encourages digestion and may ease discomfort. Avoiding overeating can also help, as large meals can slow digestion and contribute to bloating.

Certain foods can be harder to digest, particularly for those with lactose or gluten intolerance. In some cases, cutting back on cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage may also reduce bloating, as they are known to cause gas buildup in some people.

If bloating is related to constipation, adding more fibre and probiotics to your diet can help. Holistic nutrition specialist Silverman recommends getting probiotics from food sources like yoghurt rather than relying on supplements. She also suggests incorporating ground flaxseed or chia seeds, which may help support digestion and encourage regularity.