Lichen Sclerosus
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Castor Oil for Lichen Sclerosus: The Community Protocol and What Earth Clinic Readers Report

| Modified on Jul 03, 2026
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Castor Oil for LS.

Castor oil is Earth Clinic's most discussed natural remedy for lichen sclerosus (LS) — and reader experience spans nearly a decade of detailed reader reports, from first-time diagnosis to long-term management to cases readers describe as complete resolution. For a condition where the standard medical answer is lifelong steroid cream use, the Earth Clinic reader base's accumulated experience with castor oil represents something genuinely valuable: real-world, long-term feedback from people who tried the conventional approach, found it inadequate or unsustainable, and looked for something else.

This page covers what lichen sclerosus is, how Earth Clinic readers use castor oil for it, the specific protocols readers have developed (including the castor oil, lavender, and lemongrass formula that appears across dozens of posts), what readers report about results, important safety notes about essential oil dilution, and honest accounts of cases where it helped and cases where it didn't.

Important: Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that should be diagnosed and monitored by a healthcare provider. It can progress and, in rare cases, is associated with increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma. Natural remedies may help manage symptoms but should not replace appropriate medical evaluation. The information below is based on Earth Clinic reader experiences and is provided for educational purposes only.

At a Glance

  • Castor oil is Earth Clinic's most discussed natural remedy for lichen sclerosus, with reader reports dating back nearly a decade.
  • The most consistently reported formula: 3–4 tablespoons castor oil + 2–3 drops lavender essential oil + 1 drop lemongrass essential oil.
  • AJ's Editor's Choice post — describing symptom resolution and skin returning to pink after 21 years of steroid dependence — has 65 helpful votes and is the anchor of reader experience.
  • Castor oil provides immediate itch relief for most readers; longer-term improvements in white patches and skin texture take weeks to months.
  • Lemongrass essential oil must be heavily diluted — it can burn delicate tissue at higher concentrations.
  • Most readers use the formula twice daily — morning and night — as an ongoing protocol rather than occasional treatment.
  • Castor oil works better than steroid creams for some readers; others use it to reduce steroid cream frequency; a minority find it insufficient alone.
Earth Clinic Experience:

Earth Clinic's lichen sclerosus reader base is one of the most emotionally engaged on the site — because LS is a condition where conventional medicine offers management (lifelong steroid creams) but not cure, and where many readers feel dismissed or inadequately helped by the healthcare system. The reader base's castor oil posts are unusually detailed, often including years of history, multiple failed remedies, and careful observation of what finally worked. AJ's Editor's Choice post alone has 65 helpful votes — among the highest on any Earth Clinic remedy page.

What Is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the genital and anal areas, though it can occur elsewhere on the body (reader Judem from Illinois describes it appearing under her breast; reader Fotoeguyaca has it on the forearm). It causes white, thin, or patchy skin, itching, burning, pain, and in more advanced cases, skin tearing, scarring, and structural changes.

It affects women far more commonly than men, though men can develop it. It can occur at any age but is most common in postmenopausal women and young girls. The cause is not fully understood — autoimmune factors, hormonal influences, genetic predisposition, and local trauma have all been proposed. Rita from Wisconsin mentions a history of gymnastics, horseback riding, farming, and a significant episiotomy as possible contributing factors.

The standard medical treatment is high-potency topical corticosteroids (most commonly clobetasol propionate), which control symptoms but do not cure the condition and require ongoing use — often described to patients as a lifelong commitment. Long-term steroid use causes skin thinning, which is why many readers in Earth Clinic's reader base have sought alternatives.

What Earth Clinic Readers Report About Castor Oil for Lichen Sclerosus

Earth Clinic's lichen sclerosus reader base has produced some of the most detailed and emotionally significant remedy reports on the site. Several clear patterns emerge.

The emotional context is as important as the protocol

Understanding what brings readers to Earth Clinic's LS page matters. Most arrive after years of steroid cream use, having been told they will need it for the rest of their lives. Lolo from Boston describes her gynecologist insisting on clobetasol twice a week for the rest of her life — and after more than a year of compliance, still having flare-ups. AJ from Charlotte describes 21 years of LS management with steroid creams before finding castor oil. Sue from Montreal, a naturopath who describes herself as eating "super healthy" with a very healthy lifestyle, tried cortisone creams, a specialized LS product, an antifungal cream, and 5+ months of strict Candida diet — all without adequate relief — before castor oil provided improvement within one day. This context explains the emotional intensity of the posts: these are people who have tried the conventional path and need something that actually works.

Itch relief is immediate; skin changes take longer

A consistent pattern across Earth Clinic's castor oil and LS posts is a two-phase response. First phase: immediate or same-day reduction in itching and burning, often described as the best itch relief readers have found. Karen from Goldbar, Washington: "the itching goes away immediately." Cheryl from Tennessee: "apply in the morning when I am itchy and it is gone all day long." S. from Kansas City describes "incredible relief from pain and itching" and skin looking "much better only after 2 days."

Second phase: changes in the white patches and skin texture take longer — weeks to months of consistent use. AJ describes skin beginning to turn pink again after a week. Ramona from New York describes being completely symptom-free with no white patches after two-plus years of castor oil use. Twww from the UK developed a protocol to address the white patches more directly, described below.

AJ's Editor's Choice post is the anchor

AJ from Charlotte, diagnosed with LS at 27 and now 48, has 65 helpful votes on her post. After 21 years of steroid cream dependence and 9 months of worsening symptoms without clobetasol, she describes researching and arriving at organic castor oil with lavender and lemongrass. After one week: instant relief of itching and burning, healed tears, skin beginning to turn pink again, and pain-free sex without tearing or burning afterward. Her formula — 4 tablespoons castor oil with 2 drops lavender and 1 drop lemongrass — is the most replicated protocol in reader posts reflect this. Joyce Mor from Boston gave the remedy formula to her 19-year-old niece and reports: after 4–5 days applying liberally throughout the day, "everything is back to normal, her skin is back to normal, no more itching, bleeding and pain."

Most readers use it as an ongoing daily protocol, not occasional treatment

A pattern that distinguishes the most successful Earth Clinic LS accounts from less successful ones is consistency. Readers who report the best results apply the castor oil formula twice daily — morning and night — as an established routine rather than applying only when symptomatic. Several readers also raise the question of preventative use between flares; the reader base's emerging consensus is to continue regular application even when symptom-free to maintain the improvement.

Results vary — and Earth Clinic readers are honest about it

Not all readers experience the same results. Sue from Canada reports castor oil "has not worked very well" — still itching and experiencing pain with heat after regular use. Susan from Connecticut has used the castor oil, lavender, and lemongrass combination daily for months with limited benefit and continues using clobetasol sparingly alongside it. These honest reports are part of what makes Earth Clinic's reader base valuable — it is not a uniformly positive testimonial collection but a candid record of varied experiences.

AJ's Editor's Choice Protocol (Most Replicated)

AJ's Castor Oil Formula for Lichen Sclerosus

  • 4 tablespoons organic castor oil
  • 2 drops lavender essential oil
  • 1 drop lemongrass essential oil

Mix thoroughly. Apply to affected area morning and night.

AJ notes: "Castor oil is very thick and odorless so it stays with my skin well throughout the day while I am at work or in bed asleep at night." Results within one week included instant itch and burning relief, healed tears, and skin beginning to return to pink.

Important dilution note: Lemongrass essential oil is potent and can burn delicate genital tissue at higher concentrations. The 1 drop per 4 tablespoons ratio is the safe starting point. Do not increase lemongrass beyond this without caution.

The Core Castor Oil Formula

The castor oil, lavender, and lemongrass combination appears independently across multiple reader posts from different years and locations — suggesting it has been discovered repeatedly by readers researching natural LS remedies rather than simply copied from a single source. This convergence increases its credibility.

Standard Formula (Multiple Versions)

Reader Castor Oil Lavender Lemongrass Other
AJ 4 tbsp 2 drops 1 drop
Sandra (Arizona) 3 tbsp 2–3 drops 2–3 drops
Lin (Ontario) 3 tbsp 2–3 drops 1 drop Tampon soak (3 hrs)
Mama to Many 1 tbsp 3 drops 1 drop Smallest safe batch

Note: Sandra's formula uses more lemongrass than AJ's. Earth Clinic and contributors consistently flag lemongrass as the ingredient that can burn delicate tissue — stay closer to AJ's 1-drop ratio, especially for initial use.

How Castor Oil May Help Lichen Sclerosus

Castor oil's potential benefits for lichen sclerosus come from several properties of its primary fatty acid component, ricinoleic acid, as well as its physical characteristics:

  • Ricinoleic acid — anti-inflammatory: Ricinoleic acid has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity in research settings, which may explain the rapid itch and pain relief readers consistently report.
  • Deep tissue penetration: Castor oil is a known penetrant — it penetrates skin more deeply than most topical oils, potentially reaching the dermal layer where LS changes occur. Earth Clinic contributor Charity notes that hexane-free castor oil used on the liver "takes affect almost immediately from the surface of the skin" — this penetrating quality is likely why castor oil outperforms lighter oils like coconut oil for many readers.
  • Sustained moisturization: Castor oil is unusually thick and viscous — it adheres to skin and provides extended moisturization without frequent reapplication. AJ specifically notes this as an advantage for maintaining therapeutic contact during work hours and sleep.
  • Lavender essential oil: Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties; particularly noted for itch relief. Gentler on delicate tissue than lemongrass.
  • Lemongrass essential oil: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory; the most potent component of the formula. Requires careful dilution — effective at low concentrations but burns delicate tissue at higher ones.

Application Methods

Standard External Application

  1. Mix the castor oil formula (see above) in a small glass jar or bottle that can be stored between uses.
  2. Apply a thin layer to all affected areas using clean fingertips or a cotton pad.
  3. Massage gently into the skin — do not rub vigorously on irritated or torn tissue.
  4. Apply morning and night as a baseline protocol. Additional applications during the day are used by some readers for flare control.
  5. Do not rinse off — allow to absorb and remain on the skin.

Lin's Tampon Soak Method

Lin from Ontario describes soaking a tampon in the castor oil formula and inserting it for 3 hours — describing this as working "better than anything" for internal LS involvement. She uses this in addition to external application.

Note: This method delivers castor oil to vaginal tissue. Use only plain, organic, unscented tampons. Ensure the castor oil formula does not contain essential oils at concentrations that could irritate vaginal mucosa — consider using plain castor oil without essential oils for internal application. Discontinue if any burning or increased irritation occurs.

Twww's White Patch Protocol

Twww from the UK developed a more aggressive approach specifically targeting the white patches that characterize LS, after finding that castor oil alone reduced itching but wasn't eliminating the white areas:

  1. Apply the castor oil, lavender, and lemongrass formula topically and use hydrogen peroxide 6% alongside it.
  2. Roll a small section of a panty liner, wedge it next to the affected area, and tape in place with micropore tape before bed — this keeps the area dry overnight.
  3. In the morning, massage the hydrogen peroxide solution vigorously into the area. Most of the white tissue wiped off with a tissue after this treatment.
  4. One additional night of the same protocol removed the remaining white tissue.
  5. Continue castor oil formula application to maintain results.

Twww describes this as "completely curing" a patch the size of a 5p piece on the labia minora. Several subsequent readers have asked for clarification on this protocol in the comments. This is an aggressive approach and should be approached cautiously.

Essential Oil Safety and Dilution

The most important safety issue in Earth Clinic's castor oil LS reader base is the potential for lemongrass essential oil to burn delicate genital tissue if not sufficiently diluted.

Lemongrass Dilution Warning

  • Lemongrass essential oil is potent and can cause burning on delicate or inflamed tissue even at moderate concentrations.
  • Earth Clinic's reader base standard for delicate tissue: no more than 1 drop lemongrass per tablespoon of castor oil as a maximum.
  • reader base contributor Lulu recommends no more than 1 drop per tablespoon; Earth Clinic itself has flagged in the reader posts that "lemongrass can burn delicate tissue if it is not diluted sufficiently."
  • For initial use: start with 1 drop lemongrass per 3–4 tablespoons castor oil and assess tolerance before increasing.
  • If burning occurs after application, discontinue lemongrass immediately and use plain castor oil with lavender only until irritation resolves.

Lavender essential oil is considerably gentler than lemongrass and is well-tolerated at slightly higher dilutions on genital tissue, though care is still warranted. Frankincense is also generally gentle and anti-inflammatory, and has been reported to enhance results when added to the base formula.

Variations Earth Clinic Readers Use

  • Castor oil + lavender only (no lemongrass): For readers who find lemongrass too irritating or who want a simpler protocol. Lavender alone with castor oil provides meaningful anti-inflammatory and itch-relief benefit.
  • Adding frankincense: Adding approximately 4 drops of frankincense essential oil to the base formula is reported to produce excellent results, including complete normalization within 4–5 days of liberal application.
  • Castor oil + coconut oil: Frances from Queensland uses castor oil with lavender overnight and lighter jojoba or coconut oil during the day — the coconut oil is less thick and more comfortable for daytime wear.
  • Castor oil + aloe vera: Some readers use aloe vera occasionally alongside castor oil for additional irritation relief during flares.
  • Castor oil compress or pack: Some readers apply castor oil to a cloth compress and hold it against the affected area for extended contact time.
  • Plain castor oil (no essential oils): Several readers report meaningful benefit from plain organic castor oil without any essential oil additions — simpler and with less burn risk for those with very sensitive tissue.

Castor Oil vs. Steroid Creams for LS

The relationship between castor oil and steroid cream use is nuanced in Earth Clinic's reader base, and it is worth understanding the different approaches readers take:

  • Castor oil as replacement: Readers like AJ, Ramona, and Lolo describe transitioning away from steroid creams primarily, using castor oil as their main treatment. AJ describes being off clobetasol for 4 years with worsening symptoms before castor oil, and finding castor oil superior in practice.
  • Castor oil to reduce steroid frequency: Lolo describes managing primarily with castor oil and using clobetasol only for a 2-day flare over the course of a month — a significant reduction from twice-weekly indefinite use.
  • Castor oil alongside steroids: Several readers use castor oil between steroid applications, finding the combination gives better overall control than either alone.
  • Castor oil when steroids are causing problems: Judem from Illinois stopped steroids because they were thinning the skin and causing it to split and bleed — then explored castor oil as an alternative.
Important note:

Steroid creams are the standard of care for lichen sclerosus for a reason — they effectively control inflammation and have been shown to reduce the risk of scarring and structural changes. Earth Clinic's reader base does not recommend abandoning steroid treatment without consulting a healthcare provider. Many readers use castor oil to reduce — not eliminate — their steroid cream dependence, which is a reasonable and informed approach.

When Castor Oil Didn't Help — Honest Reports

Earth Clinic's reader base includes candid accounts from readers for whom castor oil provided insufficient relief:

Sue from Canada and Susan from Connecticut both describe using the formula consistently for months without satisfactory relief. Ag from San Marcos, Texas, reports that after one week, castor oil has softened rough patches and soothed irritation but LS hasn't disappeared — though it is also not getting worse. These honest reports are part of what makes Earth Clinic's reader base valuable — it is not a uniformly positive testimonial collection but a candid record of varied experiences.

The pattern in less successful cases suggests several possibilities: severity of the LS at the time of starting, whether the essential oil dilution was correct, consistency of application, and individual variation in how the condition responds to topical treatment. Some readers appear to have forms or severities of LS that require additional interventions.

Other Remedies Earth Clinic Readers Discuss for LS

  • UV light therapy: Coralie from Victoria describes having UV treatment for a couple of months each winter and being free of symptoms through the summer months.
  • Low-oxalate diet: At least one reader reports significant improvement after eliminating high-oxalate foods — a dietary intervention gaining increasing attention in LS discussions.
  • Ozonated hemp oil: Karen from Phoenix uses ozonated hemp oil (PureO3 brand mentioned) as a high-frequency healing option.
  • White oak bark + baking soda soaks: Recommended by reader Sharon from Greenwood, SC as an alternative for those not responding to castor oil.
  • Dermasilk underwear: Several readers describe switching to Dermasilk underwear as helpful during symptomatic periods — a practical comfort measure.

Lifestyle Factors Readers Mention

Several readers describe lifestyle adjustments that have helped manage LS alongside topical treatment:

  • Cotton underwear only: Rita from Wisconsin and others consistently recommend 100% cotton underwear — synthetic materials trap moisture and heat that worsen LS. She also specifically warns against chlorine, pools, and hot tubs, which many readers find aggravate symptoms significantly.
  • Fragrance-free products: All-natural soap, no perfumes or scented products in the affected area.
  • Low-oxalate diet: Increasingly discussed in reader posts as a dietary factor that may reduce LS flares.
  • No sugar/Candida diet: Tried by some readers without success, but still mentioned as a possible contributing factor by others.

Safety Considerations

Important Safety Information

  • Lichen sclerosus requires medical diagnosis and monitoring — do not self-diagnose. See a dermatologist or gynaecologist for evaluation.
  • LS is associated with a small but real increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma in the affected area — regular medical monitoring is important regardless of treatment approach.
  • Lemongrass essential oil can burn delicate genital tissue — use maximum 1 drop per tablespoon of castor oil and test tolerance carefully.
  • Use only organic, cold-pressed, hexane-free castor oil for this application.
  • Do not abandon prescribed steroid cream without discussing with your healthcare provider — steroids reduce inflammation that can lead to scarring and structural changes.
  • If symptoms significantly worsen, new lesions appear, or there is any bleeding not explained by known LS activity, seek medical evaluation promptly.
  • LS in children requires medical management — do not use this protocol for children without paediatric guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does castor oil help lichen sclerosus?

Many Earth Clinic readers report significant benefit from castor oil for lichen sclerosus, particularly for itching, burning, and pain relief. AJ's Editor's Choice post describes skin returning to pink and tears healing after one week, after 21 years of steroid cream dependence. Ramona describes being symptom-free for over two years. Results vary — some readers find it insufficient alone, particularly for more established or severe cases.

What is the castor oil formula for lichen sclerosus?

The most replicated Earth Clinic formula is: 3–4 tablespoons organic castor oil + 2–3 drops lavender essential oil + 1 drop lemongrass essential oil. Apply morning and night to affected areas. Do not increase lemongrass beyond 1 drop per tablespoon — it can burn delicate tissue at higher concentrations.

How quickly does castor oil work for lichen sclerosus?

Itch relief is commonly reported within hours of the first application. Improvement in white patches and skin texture takes longer — readers describe meaningful changes over weeks to months of consistent twice-daily use. AJ reports skin beginning to turn pink after one week — and long-term users describe complete resolution over years of consistent use.

Can I use castor oil instead of clobetasol for lichen sclerosus?

Some readers do use castor oil as their primary treatment with good results. However, steroid creams like clobetasol reduce inflammation that can cause scarring and structural changes — risks that go beyond symptom management. Discuss any changes to your steroid treatment with your healthcare provider. Many readers use castor oil to reduce steroid frequency rather than eliminate it entirely.

How do I dilute lemongrass essential oil for lichen sclerosus?

Use no more than 1 drop lemongrass essential oil per tablespoon of castor oil — this is the reader base's established safe ratio for delicate genital tissue. Start at this level and do not increase without careful assessment of tolerance. If burning occurs, discontinue lemongrass and use plain castor oil with lavender only until irritation resolves.

Should I use castor oil for LS even when symptom-free?

Ongoing twice-daily use appears helpful for preventing flares even when symptom-free. The emerging consensus is to continue regular application as a preventative measure rather than stopping when symptoms resolve.

What type of castor oil should I use for lichen sclerosus?

Organic, cold-pressed, hexane-free castor oil is consistently recommended. The hexane-free designation is important — hexane is a solvent sometimes used in castor oil processing that should not be applied to sensitive tissue. Earth Clinic contributor Charity specifically notes that hexane-free castor oil has better penetration properties.

Takeaway

Castor oil for lichen sclerosus represents one of Earth Clinic's most substantive reader base-developed remedy protocols — born from the frustration of readers told they must use steroid creams indefinitely, and refined over years of detailed, named reader reports. The core formula (castor oil + lavender + lemongrass, twice daily) provides immediate itch relief for most readers and shows meaningful skin improvement over weeks to months for many. It is not a replacement for medical monitoring of a condition with real complications, but as a daily management tool that reduces steroid dependence and improves quality of life, the Earth Clinic reader base's accumulated experience is genuinely compelling.

Scroll down to read Earth Clinic reader experiences with castor oil for lichen sclerosus, including long-term follow-up reports and protocol variations.

Experiences With Castor Oil for Lichen Sclerosus

Below are Earth Clinic reader reports on using castor oil, lavender, and lemongrass for lichen sclerosus relief, including protocol details, timelines, and long-term outcomes.

Related Links:

Natural Remedies for Lichen Sclerosus: Effective Treatments


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

18 User Reviews

5 star (13) 
  72%
4 star (3) 
  17%
2 star (1) 
  6%
1 star (1) 
  6%

Posted by Lin (Ontario) on 03/17/2025
★★★★★

Absolutely love castor oil, I put it on whole body after shower and on face, body and feet at night, for LS, I use 3 tablespoons QOT Castor Oil, 2-3 drop Lavender oil and 1 drop Lemongrass, I also soak tampon in castor oil and insert it for 3 hours. Works better than anything! Use daily.


Castor Oil
Posted by Lin (Ontario) on 03/17/2025
★★★★★

Absolutely love castor oil, I put it on whole body after shower and on face, body and feet at night, for LS, I use 3 tablespoons QOT Castor Oil, 2-3 drop Lavender oil and 1 drop Lemongrass, I also soak tampon in castor oil and insert it for 3 hours. Works better than anything! Use daily.


Castor Oil
Posted by Lolo (boston, ma) on 11/18/2023
★★★★★

lichen sclerosis relief with castor oil

thanks so much for these posts. My gynecologist insisted that I would need to use clobetesol twice a week for the REST of my LIFE!! Tried that for over a year, but still had flare-ups. And who wants to use steroids forever? -- I have started using castor oil twice daily, with occasional aloe vera for irritation or lavender oil for itch, and coconut oil once during the day for extra moisturizing. Symptoms calmed down quickly, and No symptoms for 1 week now.

Wonder if people are using the castor oil even when symptom-free as a preventative? Or just when needed. Would be helpful to know.

I notice that lots of people ask for follow-ups, to see if these remedies work long term -- so I will post again. Here's hoping...

Replied by Lolo
(Boston)
12/14/2023
★★★★★

About 1 month later - happy to report that I have been able to manage symptoms with castor oil etc. --other than a 2 day flare up where I did use Clobetasol, and have been mostly symptom-free.

Also invested in very expensive Dermasilk underwear, which seem helpful when having symptoms

Replied by Ruth
(FL)
06/04/2026

Please update us on your Lichen Sclerosus treatment with Castor Oil?


Castor Oil
Posted by Twww (Uk) on 02/13/2018
★★★★★

LS: Dry it out first! Cures it completely

I was using castor oil with lemongrass and lavender as well as hydrogen peroxide 6% - the itching had gone but the white patch wasn't going.

I rolled a small section of a panty liner up and wedged it next to the sore and taped it in place with micropore tape before bed. After massaging the hydrogen peroxide solution in the next morning (quite vigorously), most of the white stuff wiped off with a tissue. One more night of the same and the rest of it came off. Now the skin is pink and I'm just using castor/lemongrass/lavender oil to make sure it doesn't come back.

I'm so relieved it seems to be completely cured. I had a patch about the size of a 5p piece on my labia minora. I think drying it out killed it completely, and surprisingly it didn't irritate the skin around it. Hope this helps some others get rid of it completely as well.

Replied by Rita
(Cashton, Wi)
08/08/2018

I also have LS. started like white streaks, blisters, pain, itching. It came on suddenly. I had it dx by a Gyno and was told you can only keep it at bay, no cure. I use steroid cream alternately with Aquaphor. Stay away from chlorine, pools, hot tubs as this will aggravate your symptoms. It has started to atrophy and my labia is almost gone. It really hits your confidence as a women and sex can be painful. I recommend letting your significant other see this condition, let them know it is not contagious. They need to be gentle with you and if they love you as my husband does, it helps alot with self esteem. I also am frustrated that there is no studies on this as it affects so many women, men. I feel it is from trauma to your skin. I was a gymnast and rode horses, farmed etc. I also had a 9lb baby and had an significant episiotomy. I make sure to wear only cotton underwear and all natural soap, no perfumes etc. I feel also I am totally willing to try the castor oil mixture. Good luck to you all, be nice to yourself it is not something we ever thought we would get.

Replied by Vicky
(New South Wales)
07/17/2024

What did you put on the rolled up panty liner that you taped on? Was it just the liner...is that what dried it out? Or did you put the hydrogen peroxide on the liner?...what was it please? Thanks in advance

Replied by Sheila
(NM)
10/15/2024

Hello, I realize this is a very old post. I I was diagnosed with LS a year ago. And of course I was prescribed the topical steroid. But I'm trying to reduce this as I think it's contributing now to some redness and itchiness. I wanted to know if you could clarify a little bit on how you used the hydrogen peroxide. Did you combine it with the oils and put it all on the panty liner? Or just the oils on the panty liner and the hydrogen peroxide in the morning? Thank you and I hope you get this message!

Replied by Kathy
(Canada)
10/04/2025

Hello you indicated you used a castor oil hydrogen peroxide mix with lavender how much of each did you use please advise thank you


Castor Oil
Posted by Sandra (Arizona) on 12/01/2017
★★★★★

For LS:

3 tbsp castor oil, 2 to 3 drops lavender oil and 2 to 3 drops lemongrass oil. Mix and apply in the morning and at night. Lavendar helps for the itching.


Castor Oil
Posted by Ag (San Marcos, Texas) on 11/22/2017
★★★★☆

I have been using organic castor oil on myself for a week for LS. It has softened the rough patches of skin. Also, it tends to soothe the irritation. My Gyno said 2 days ago that it hasn't disappeared, but it is not getting worse. So, I figure that is a step in the right direction.+.


Castor Oil
Posted by S (Kansas City ) on 08/13/2017
★★★★★

Lichen Sclerosus:

Castor oil, lavender oil and lemon grass oil mixture have given me incredible relief from pain and itching. I'm Almost feeling normal at times. Also, it looks much better only after 2 days of use. Bowel movements are much less painful as well. Before I tried this wonderful oil mixture, I had tried Butt Paste with 40% zinc oxide which helped with itching and pain to a certain extent. Applying several times night and day just to get by. Coconut oil is very soothing and felt nice but didn't help the itch at all. Please try the castor oil!

Replied by R D
(Iowa)
08/17/2017

I have also been diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus and the meds from the Dr have not helped. I have purchased an organic Castor Oil (Aura Cacia) but it says for external use only. Is it still ok to use inside the vaginal area? Along with the Lavender and lemongrass essential oils.

Any help is appreciated!!

Thank you

Replied by Charity
(Faithville, Usa)
08/17/2017

castor oil hexane free is a penetrant and when I use it on my liver it takes affect almost immediately from the surface of my skin ....so I would use on lower pelvic right above hairline and you will get results . Just use with some cotton flannel on it and saran wrap and healing pad to drive it down into the skin. Be careful of using too much essential oil with it the first time....

Replied by Lulu
(Walnut)
08/18/2017

Yes castor oil can be used vaginally. Please be very careful with lemongrass on the skin, especially delicate skin. It is strong and can burn. No more than 1 drop per tablespoon castor oil. On delicate tissues, dilute lavender as well.


Castor Oil
Posted by Cheryl (Tennessee) on 05/06/2017
★★★★★

Castor oil is the best remedy for taking away my LS itching. I apply in the morning when I am itchy ..... and it is gone all day long excellent remedy and works for me ..


Castor Oil
Posted by Karen (Goldbar Wa.) on 03/18/2017
★★★★★

I use Castor Oil applied to the area for my L.S. and the itching goes away immediately.


Castor Oil
Posted by Sue (Canada) on 01/13/2017
★☆☆☆☆

The Castor Oil application has not worked very well for me....still itching and pain with heat. I am looking for a cure but have not found any real help yet. I refuse to see a Dr or Ob/Gyn for assistance as I know what they will give me. I am looking for natural assistance. I am thinking about trying Hemp flower oil. I would make my own naturally.

Replied by Sharon
(Greenwood, SC)
01/20/2017

You may have more success using white oak bark supplement and baking soda in your bath and for soaks.

Replied by Coralie
(Victoria)
08/01/2017

Having UV is not invasive, not unnatural, and it works. I have UV for a couple of months each winter and am free of the problem through the summer months.

Replied by Susan
(Wa)
07/29/2023

You can improve a lot by avoiding foods with OXALATES. There a list online of foods high in Oxalates

Replied by Karen
(Phoenix, AZ)
12/05/2023

I've been using ozonated hemp oil as it the highest frequency and hopeful it will continue to heal. The company I use is PureO3.


Castor Oil
Posted by Ramona (New York) on 09/14/2016
★★★★★

You must use castor oil....it cured my LS.....have no more symptoms. It's been over 2 years now. No more pain, no tearing.. Sex is great...........please just use castor oil.

Replied by Trish
(Ca)
09/15/2016
★★★★★

Castor Oil is it! Finally got some relief. Slept through the night last night with no irritation. First time in years. Thank you!

Replied by Jamie
(Toronto)
09/15/2016

Can you tell me, did it make any white patches go away? Make anything infuse, or just relieve itching and tearing?

Replied by Jamie
(Toronto)
09/15/2016

UN-FUSE, I mean.

Replied by Frankie
(Brooklyn, Ny)
11/01/2016

Can you please tell me if you drank it or applied it?

Replied by Vera
(Oklahoma)
11/02/2016

I am sure it was applied topically.

Replied by Suzanne
(Al)
06/29/2017

I am hopeful! I suffer every day! Pain to even sit down!

Replied by Kenny
(California)
06/30/2017

How do I mix this? Is it straight castor oil?


Castor Oil
Posted by Sue (Montreal) on 07/05/2016
★★★★☆

I am 55 and have had L.S. for one year. I am a naturopath so I eat super healthy and have a very healthy lifestyle. Cortisone creams helped a little, but it still never went away completely. I tried Lisepten by Clover leaf farm, which didn't work. I tried Emuaid, which soothed the itching but didn't heal. I have been following the extremely strict Candida diet for 5 + months, no sugar, no alcohol, no yeast, taking supplements to kill any yeast as well as a probiotic, with no results!

And now finally yesterday I tried this castor oil and lemon grass essential oil and lavender essential oil and so far so good. One small white patch that has been chronic is just about gone.

I am hopeful, I will keep you posted.

EC: Essential oils should always be diluted when used topically. Lemongrass can burn delicate tissue if it is not diluted sufficiently.

Replied by Jamie
(Toronto)
09/16/2016

Is the castor oil with essential oils still working for you? Can you tell me what kinds of changes you noticed, and how often you apply?

Replied by Nan
(Austin, Tx)
10/06/2016

How did you mix these things up? Please give specifics. Thanks!

Replied by Mama To Many
(Tennessee)
10/06/2016

Dear Nan,

When I use Lemongrass essential oil on the skin, I dilute it a lot. It is very strong and can burn the skin. Lavender is more gentle.

I would try a mixture of the following:

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil
  • 1 DROP lemongrass essential oil
  • 3 drops lavender essential oil

I hope it is helpful to you! Our family has certainly found the above oils to help with different ailments.

~Mama to Many~

Replied by Fotoeguyaca
(Marion, North Carolina)
11/04/2016

Just found out I have Lichen sclerosus on my forearm .. That's a good place I'm finding out .. I only hope it doesn't,, show up >>somewhere else>> doing what the doctor ordered .. Right now clobetasol for three weeks. Keeping it covered .. But thing is it doesn't itch,, not yet .. I've had it about two months .. So I'm looking for natural cures.. I see I have many I already found out .. Trying baking soda,, helps most fungus .. don't like alkali environments,, same as cancers .. I'll keep you all posted on my results..

Replied by Gail
(Huntsville Alabama)
09/23/2017

Wouldnt adding lavender oil and lemongrass oil to castor oil be enpugh dilution? how much of each?? Thank you!!

Replied by Maggie
(Wv)
09/23/2017

Try Mama's dilution mentioned above in this thread.

Replied by Alfrieda
(South Africa)
09/29/2017

What is the ratio to mix the caster oil lavender and lemongrass oil?

Replied by Lisa
(Maine)
09/30/2017

Mix together:

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil
  • 1 DROP lemongrass essential oil
  • 3 drops lavender essential oil

Replied by Susan
(Connecticut)
10/05/2017
★★☆☆☆

I've been mixing a batch of castor oil and lemongrass and lavender oils rather than mixing every time I use it. It isn't helping very much and I've been using it daily for months. I use clobestol sparingly as it can make the situation worse my doctor said. Any other natural remedies that someone has tried.

Replied by Judem
(Illinois)
05/04/2018

I've had LS in my genital and anal area for years. Stopped using steroids because of the thinning of skin in that area. It would split and bleed. I've used 1% hydrocortisone cream for the itiching and try to remember to put it on several times a day before the itching starts. I recently saw a spot on my underside of my breast. The dermatologist diagnosed it as LS without knowing I'd have a previous history. the strange thing is, it has never itched. I'm wondering if the itching is more common if the LS is located in parts of the body where it's skin on skin, or if natural moisture has something to do with it. I am going to try some of the remedies suggested on here. Right now, at the direction of the doctor, I'm back to using a steriod cream, but I want to get away from it as soon as possible. Thanks to all for your input. I've learned a lot.

Replied by Nicci
(Western Australia)
05/16/2018

Hi there, I have recently been diagnosed with LS and would like to try natural therapy. I have lemongrass & lavender essential oils, along with castor oil. I was just wondering if you could please advise how often and for how long you applied? Is it something that needs to be applied daily for the rest of my life? I was also wondering how u insert it? I feel that I'm strugggling with this part. Thanks for your time.

Replied by Frances
(Cabarlah, Qld.)
05/19/2018

I wouldn't recommend inserting it personal opinion; however, apply externally as often as necessary, e.g. after toilet. I prefer to use a lighter oil during the day (jojoba, coconut) and use the castor oil with lavender essential oil overnight.


Castor Oil
Posted by Aj (Charlotte, Nc) on 12/24/2014
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I was diagnosed with LS at the age of 27 by a dermatologist specialist. I am now 48. I am not sure what caused it as I have had no trauma that would warrant it that I can think of other than an episiotomy at age 18 when my daughter was born. I have always been able to keep it under control with steroid creams clobetasol and OTC 1% cortisone ointment. Been out of clobetasol for 4 years and OTS ointment has not really been helping. In the last 9 months my skin has turned more white and some tearing with sex and itching and burning with my monthly menstrual cycle.

I have been doing so much research on how to heal myself. I tried emu oil with little results, coconut oil mixed with lavender and lemongrass with pretty good results but last week I think I found the best thing ever. I researched and starting using a solution of organic castor oil (4tbsp mixed with 2 drops lavender oil and 1 drop lemongrass oil) I have used it for a little over a week now with wonderful results. It gives instant relief of itching and burning, my tears have healed and my skin is finally starting to turn back pink again. Castor oil is very thick and odorless so it stays with my skin well throughout the day while I am at work or in bed asleep at night.

Sex was great with no tearing or itching burning afterward. I will continue to use this and I hope it helps anyone who reads this suffering with this horrible affliction.

Replied by Janice
(Arkansas, US)
01/03/2015

AJ - your post is very encouraging and I'm going to try your treatment! I do have a question, though - how often do you apply the castor oil mixture? Daily? More often?

Thank you for sharing this!!!

Replied by D.d.
(Somewhere, Louisiana)
02/22/2015

How often did you apply the "castor oil, lemon grass lavender" mixture. I'm having a flare up and it's painful. Can't see my Dr.till April...she's booked up. need relief now!

Replied by Michelle
(Albuquerque, Nm)
04/28/2015

Is the castor oil, lavender and lemongrass still working for you? I just got diagnosed and am frightened. Desperate you might say. Thank you

Replied by Evie
(Ca)
06/17/2015

Thanks for the blog plus this new possibility of remedy. I have been suffering with LS nearly 10 years. I have been seen by numerous doctors but none seem to have a cure. There are doctors in Ohio who are claiming they've cured patients with penicillin injections but it's imperative to make sure you are not allergic or it could cause death.

For the past few years, I've been taking antibiotic twice daily as these same doctors have found the bacteria Borelia is the cause of LS. It has kept the LS from progressing although it is all over my body as well as my neck, chin and sides of my face. I went to a doctor who uses the light box therapy but he said it might further my condition. Coconut oil has given me some relief and I think it may even be reducing the white patches and hopefully my skin will become pink again! Good luck to all who suffer from this....

Replied by Joyce Mor
(Boston, Ma)
10/09/2015
★★★★★

Thank you, I used the castor oil, lemongrass, & lavender, I added about 4 drops of Frankincense.

My niece has LS, after about 4 or 5 day putting it on liberally throughout the day, she called today and said everything is back to normal, her skin is back to normal, no more itching, bleeding and pain, hopefully it last, she is only 19, I hope this helps. Thanks again for your post giving me the original recipe.

Replied by Ivah
(Mesa, Az)
10/12/2015

I was wondering is your niece still doing well with LS....using the lavender and lemon grass ..frankincense?

Replied by Susu
(Utah)
02/25/2016
★★★★☆

Thank you so much.

As soon as I read the three oil mix, I went to health store, got last time, applied, burning sensation at first, today, second time applied the oil mixture, already feel the improvement. Yes, I did got cream from Dr. too but nothing is improved but got worse last week...

But just one day, I already see the improvement. thank you so much... You saved my sanity. Susu

Replied by Eve
(Ca)
11/20/2016

Eve,

Could you please update on your Lichen Sclerosis.

Replied by C
(Illinois)
02/19/2017

Thank you for sharing. I will try this.

Replied by Mir
(Woodbridge Ont)
04/03/2018

Do you mix all 3 and just apply to affected area?

Replied by Collette
(Swift Current, SK)
10/05/2024

I feel when using oils and creams I have to wear a pad in the day. Does anyone else? Recommendations for something non-irritating?