Is it safe to take castor oil to induce labor?

Depends...: Castor oil is a great way to have a bowel movement. if you are close to entering labor on your own, the cramping from your colon may stir up contractions in the uterus and labor will go from there. IF you are NOT ready to labor, you will have painful cramping and diarrhea, some uterine cramps but not any cervical dilation and you will still be pregnant after it all settles down.

Talk to your ob: Castor oil causes diarrhea. In the process, it can cause some uterine contractions. It is not directly harmful to the baby. However, inducing your own contractions without the knowlege of your OB can cause problems for your baby and is not a great idea. Induction without a medical reason prior to 39 weeks is not recommended. Best to discuss this idea with your Ob before you try it.