If you've been on TikTok recently, you've likely seen videos of people raving about the many castor oil benefits. A quick scroll of the app led me to find multiple videos claiming that by dropping the oil into your belly button, you can "detoxify your gut and liver, promote bathroom regularity, and reduce period pain and ovarian cysts."
We're sure you'll agree that these are seriously big claims, especially if they're not backed by scientific research or qualified experts. And while we're all for natural health alternatives - we cited biohacking, drinkable nutrition and postbiotics as some of the wellness trends to watch for the year ahead, and Senior Health Editor Ally Head has written a whole review of the calming shroom cacao she drinks before bed - we're also journalists keen to cut through the noise and debunk diet fads that are just that - fads.
