A nurse is warning about a new diet trend on TikTok that can cause explosive diarrhea if used too frequently. Several creators are promoting castor oil as a dietary supplement to detoxify the body.
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The influencers reportedly explained to followers that drinking the oil can help remove toxins from the body despite its use in cosmetics and moisturizers. While speaking with Newsweek, Nurse Jane Clark said she was concerned about the widespread misinformation on social media, as she’s seen various comments regarding castor oil as a “cure-all” for various illnesses, including cancer. “There is no scientific evidence that castor oil will have any impact whatsoever on serious illnesses such as cancer. This is simply untrue, and these myths are harmful,” Clark explained.
She further explained that ingesting castor oil stimulates bowel movement, often leading to explosive diarrhea. This happens because the oil causes stool to move rapidly through the intestines, not allowing enough time for proper digestion. Although doctors do recommend castor oil to treat constipation, its side effects can be severe, including stomach or abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness.
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“For this reason, despite what TikTok influencers would have you believe, it is advisable to avoid ingesting castor oil altogether. While the oil is perfectly safe to use externally, it’s unlikely to have any real benefit other than soft skin.”
Clark also acknowledged how castor oil was used as a remedy for families but the public shouldn’t have to rely on certain methods due to the advancements in medicine.
“In the past, castor oil was used medicinally as a laxative to cure constipation, and to induce labor in overdue expectant mothers. However, it is no longer recommended for these purposes due to safety concerns. The fact is, in 2024 we don’t need to rely on the same laxatives that the ancient Egyptians needed to, medicine has moved on and we now have safer options.”