Castor oil comes from castor seeds (Ricinus communis) and is pretty amazing at reducing inflammation and promoting healing.  I recently discovered that I have bursitis in my knee from overuse, which created inflammation and pain in that area.  I have been wrapping my knee in a castor oil pack each evening for 45 minutes and the bursitis is almost gone!

Make your own Castor oil pack:

1. Heat about 1/2 cup of castor oil until it is warm but not hot.

2. Soak a small towel or cotton wrap into the oil until it is saturated.

3. Wrap the towel around the affected area.

4. Cover with plastic wrap (so the oil doesn't get everywhere).

5. Put a heating pad on top because the heat helps to penetrate it deeper into the tissues.

6. Leave this on for about 45 minutes.