If you’ve spent any time on TikTok recently, chances are you’ve come across some wild health trends that leave you questioning how they even became a thing. But one of the latest trends that’s really caught attention involves something a little more ancient—and surprisingly simple: putting castor oil in your belly button. Known as “navel oiling” or “navel pulling,” this quirky wellness practice is sparking curiosity online. But is it just another TikTok fad, or is there something to it?
While the concept might seem new to many, it’s actually rooted in centuries-old practices, particularly in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. In fact, it’s not so much a new discovery as it is a modern-day revival of an ancient remedy. But how did we get here, and—more importantly—does it actually work?
What Is Navel Oiling?
At its core, navel oiling involves applying a small amount of castor oil directly to your belly button. Yes, you read that right—the belly button, a place that’s rarely given much attention outside of daily hygiene. Followers of this trend claim that the practice can improve digestion, boost skin health, and even promote overall well-being.
Castor oil itself isn’t a newcomer to the wellness scene. This thick, amber-colored oil has long been known for its many uses, from a natural laxative to a remedy for dry skin and hair. But navel oiling takes it a step further, placing the oil directly on the navel, an area that’s considered to be an energy center in Ayurvedic traditions. The belief is that applying oil here can help unlock various health benefits.
The Ancient Roots of Navel Oiling
The practice of navel oiling has its origins in Ayurveda, a holistic healing system that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. According to Ayurvedic teachings, the navel is considered a focal point of health, and it’s believed that by nurturing it with oils, you can stimulate both physical and emotional well-being. Navel oiling has been used in Ayurveda to treat various ailments, from digestive issues to stress, with the thought that it helps balance the body’s internal energies.
While there’s no modern scientific evidence specifically supporting navel oiling, Ayurveda does place great importance on the concept of balancing the body through natural remedies, and castor oil has historically been valued for its therapeutic properties.
The Health Claims Behind Navel Oiling
People swear by the benefits of navel oiling, claiming everything from smoother skin to better digestion. Here are some of the most popular benefits that proponents say come with this practice:
- Improved Digestion: Some fans of navel oiling believe that castor oil can stimulate digestive function when absorbed through the skin, helping to alleviate bloating, constipation, and indigestion. While castor oil is known as an effective natural laxative when ingested, its effects when applied topically are less clear.
- Moisturizing and Skin Benefits: Castor oil has a reputation for being incredibly moisturizing, so it’s not surprising that people are using it to enhance skin health. Its thick, emollient texture is said to help lock in moisture and soothe dry, irritated skin. Applying it to the navel may even promote overall skin hydration and glow.
- Relieving Stress and Anxiety: Some wellness enthusiasts believe that navel oiling can have a calming effect, helping to balance emotions and reduce stress. In Ayurvedic practices, the navel is thought to be a center of energy, and by treating it with care, you might unlock a sense of emotional well-being.
- Promoting Hair Growth: Castor oil has long been used in hair care routines for its purported ability to stimulate hair growth and improve hair health. The theory is that by applying it to the navel, you can indirectly encourage hair growth through its effects on the body’s overall circulation and balance.
What Do the Experts Think?
It’s important to approach wellness trends like navel oiling with a healthy dose of skepticism, especially when they’re not backed by scientific research. While castor oil is FDA-approved as a natural laxative, its external benefits—especially when applied to the belly button—aren’t widely studied.
Dr. Michael Aziza, a primary-care physician based in New York City, explains that while there’s nothing inherently dangerous about the practice, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support the myriad claims. “Castor oil has well-known uses in digestive health, but there’s no solid proof that applying it to the belly button provides any additional benefits,” says Aziza.
Meanwhile, Saman Faramarzin, a naturopathic medicine expert and advisor for Dose, suggests that while navel oiling may not offer magical results, it could still provide some benefits, particularly when it comes to hydration and relaxation. “Castor oil is an excellent moisturizer, so it could potentially help soothe dry skin in the area. And if the practice helps people feel more connected to their bodies or promotes a sense of self-care, that in itself could be valuable,” Faramarzin explains.
Should You Try Navel Oiling?
If you’re curious about navel oiling, there’s no harm in trying it—just be mindful of how your skin reacts. Castor oil is generally considered safe for topical use, but it’s always a good idea to patch-test a small area first to avoid irritation. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before trying new topical treatments.
While the practice of navel oiling may not have solid scientific backing, it does tap into a sense of ritual and self-care that many people find beneficial. Whether you’re drawn to it for its Ayurvedic roots, its moisturizing potential, or simply for the experience of trying something new, it’s a trend that may add a little extra TLC to your wellness routine—if nothing else, it’s a reminder to slow down and take a moment for yourself.
Final Thoughts
In the age of viral health trends, it’s easy to get swept up in the next big thing. Navel oiling may not be a miracle cure, but it’s an intriguing practice that connects modern wellness to ancient traditions. Whether or not it lives up to all the claims, it might just be the quirky self-care practice that helps you unwind and recharge for the month ahead.
