For about 2 weeks I have experimented with adding a small amount – ¼ teaspoon bicarb to 1 tablespoon castor oil) to my castor oil, and rubbing it in many places, including my eyelids. Prior to the bicarb soda, I have rubbed castor oil into my eyelids for months, without ill-effects. Since the bicarb addition, my eyelids only, have become red, sore, and swollen. I will return to castor oil alone, to see if the eyelids improve. DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE, RATHER, IT IS INTENDED TO BE EDUCATIONAL. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH.