Infants and toddlers under the age of 2 should only take 1 to 5 millilitres (0. 068 to 0. 338 US tbsp). If you’re using castor oil on a doctor’s recommendation, follow their dosing instructions.

If you want the castor oil to work slowly over time, take it with a meal.

You can also improve the taste by refrigerating the castor oil for an hour or so beforehand. You can find flavored castor oil online. It can come in fruity flavors, like lemon.

Call your doctor if you don’t have a bowel movement at this time, as you may have a more serious problem like an intestinal blockage or impaction.

Keep your castor oil in a space that’s cooler than 40 °C (104 °F). [10] X Research source If your oil smells rancid, throw it out.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have. Castor oil contains certain ingredients that may trigger an allergic reaction.

Your doctor may do an X-ray, colonoscopy, or other procedure, depending on what they think is causing your constipation.

If you experience any bad abdominal cramps, bloating, vomiting, or dizziness, stop using castor oil immediately and contact a healthcare professional. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source