Does the Moon make your Hormones go Crazy?

Does the Moon make your Hormones go Crazy?

Does the Moon make your Hormones go Crazy by Queen of the Thrones

Does the Moon make your Hormones go Crazy?

Written by: Melanie Swackhammer B.A.
Medically reviewed by: Marisol Teijeiro N.D. (inactive) and Victoria Williams R.H.N.

Est. reading time: 13 minutes.

Mother Nature’s Medicine: The Moon, Menstruation, Seed Cycling & Castor Oil Packs

Have you ever wondered if the full moon is controlling everything from your sleeping patterns to how irritable you feel when you’re stuck in traffic? Is the moon like a puppet master directing your every move? It’s possible, right?

In case you didn’t know, it’s no coincidence that your menstrual cycle is the same number of days, as the days on the calendar, as is the full rotation of the moon around the earth.

Everything is interconnected and the moon is controlling much more than you think. Makes sense, agreed? You’re in the right place because we’re going to discuss how the moon cycles impact your hormones and help you discover the pros and cons of seed cycling for hormone imbalance.

Beyond the days of your monthly menstrual cycle, it has an impact on every aspect of your physiology, not only your hormones.

It’s most notable in your moods and key symptoms of unbalanced hormones, your problems with your period and infertility, and even your low levels of the nightime hormone melatonin, affecting how well you sleep1.

Mother Nature’s Medicine: Seed Cycling and your period problems.

You see, mother nature carries many secrets up her sleeves on how to work with the moon cycle, for your menstrual problems.

Eating seeds is one way, in what is known as the practice of seed cycling, and is said to possibly support healthier periods cycles.

Single seed cycling by Queen of the Thrones

However, another easier, often better tolerated alternative for those who can’t eat seeds frequently and repetitively, as required in seed cycling, is ” Single” Seed Cycling done with Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs.

The Difference between Seed Cycling and “Single” Seed Cycling

The traditional seed cycling protocol alternates what seeds to eat at different times of the month according to your hormones and the moon: flax, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds.

One downfall for many women with hormonal problems is that these seeds can cause digestive distress when repeatedly consumed, creating a leaky gut or aggravating a pre-existing condition.

Additionally, it can become a hassle preparing the seeds, coordinating when to eat each kind, and finding new recipes to keep things exciting. Many often start this protocol with the best of intentions but give up shortly after starting. Sound familiar?

“Single” Seed Cycling, on the other hand, soothes digestive distress and is simply less hassle, by using Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs for Liver , instead of eating seeds.

“Single” Seed Cycling is supportive for your well-being, working from the outside in.

Therefore, it’s a great alternative if you’re tired of taking so many supplements and would rather do a self-care practice as easy as wearing a Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack for Liver or using the Queen of the Thrones® Hormone Balance & Detox Kit, on a different part of the body, at different times of the month according to the moon cycles.

Plus, there’s an additional bonus with “Single” Seed Cycling with Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs.

You see, because there are many more benefits with using Castor Oil Packs, which are a traditional therapy that have been used as a traditional therapy that have been used for wellness since the beginning of time, first with the Egyptians and even the father of medicine, Hippocrates.

The benefits of these Castor Oil Packs, beyond supporting hormone cycling include, but are not limited to supporting:

Sounds good, am I right? It’s clearly a natural choice that’s so much easier to do, with so many benefits. Makes sense, agreed?

 

Queen of the Thrones benefits of Castor oil Packs.

Mother Nature’s Medicine: Chronobiology for your menstrual cycle

It’s nice to have options and tools to support the optimization of your period and hormone balance, that work with the rhythms and cycles of nature, right? This is a branch of medicine known as chronobiology.15

So, since we are biological beings, these practices aren’t simple folklore, but show clinical practice evidence that we are affected by the moon. Plus, this is one of many ways our bodies keep time.

We may not be as intensely possessed by the moon as say a werewolf, but hey, we all have our hormonal moments now, don’t we? Some of us do become rabid beasts at that time of the month when the moon is shining bright, right?

Think of it like this: You’ve had a bad day, you look at the calendar and you see it’s a full moon. Is it a coincidence?

Maybe, maybe not.

What’s the research about the moon, seed cycling & hormones?

Preliminary research is in the works, one study of interest done at old age homes couldn’t find a connection between weird mood changes and the full moon.16

However, it was done with an elderly population in an old age home, at a time in life when hormone levels are at their lowest. With moods and the moon being highly interconnected to your hormones17, not the best people to study to find the truth. Agreed?

So if one study that may have not had the best methodology says it’s not connected, it doesn’t mean it’s hocus pocus. It just means we need more research or clinical practice.

Clinical experience: The moon, hormones & seed cycling

Just ask any nurse who has worked an emergency shift on a full moon, they will give you their side of story, usually including how crazy and full of patients the hospital can get on those crazy full moon eve’s.

It’s enough to make sure you look at the calendar for where the moon cycle is at before booking an important procedure or going under the knife! Agreed?

You see, what I love about research is that it can come in the forms of clinical study, but also from a clinical practitioner’s perspective through patient observation.

The traditional seed cycling protocol, along with the easier reinvented “Single” Seed Cycling was developed along these lines, from functional integrative medicine practices and health and wellness coaches, much like yourself.

Even though these protocols have little scientific research, as in double blind placebo controlled studies, the gold standard in medicine. The lack of this research doesn’t make it wrong, it just hasn’t been studied that way yet, and may very well never be studied that way for various reasons, two of which I’ll discuss here.

Queen of the Thrones single seed cycling using castor oil packs

Mother nature only likes to be tested in her natural environment

The most important one being that mother nature isn’t the type to be put into a box and given only 2 variables to work with.

Mother nature is a product of her environment, and as such, there are millions of variables at play in the environment, the temperature, the wind, the sunlight, the food and nourishment, the exercise, the practices, the social contact, and the list goes on and on.

So, this makes it hard to study scientifically, especially using a double blind placebo scientific method. There are simply too many variables to test in nature and natural environments. Makes sense, right?

Mother nature doesn’t have deep pockets to pay for studies

The lack of funding for studies such as these impacts the understanding of the true effect of this practice. Deep pockets like those in the pharmaceutical industry fund studies that go towards new drugs, not natural medicine protocols.

Moreover, what we do know helps illuminate our choices of care in integrative and functional medicine settings.

As a practitioner, when you’re prescribing protocols like seed cycling, it’s often a combination of an in depth understanding of physiology of how the body works from a “functional” perspective”, as well as the knowledge of the ingredients used, such as flax seed, well known for its effects in hormonal wellness.18

Combining these, along with clinical observation and experience of the practical use of mother nature’s tools, like the traditional seed cycling protocol or “Single” Seed Cycling, using Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs, are both ethical protocols because they’re not likely to cause harm and may even provide benefit beyond what is hypothesized.

Except in the case of traditional seed cycling. Although seed cycling is one of the most highly popularized natural food and lifestyle-based practices for hormone balance, it has the worst compliance.

But why?

Well, because of digestive disturbances from repetitively eating the seeds and the hassle of preparation, seed cycling has the worst compliance. Makes sense, agreed?

The “Single” Seed Cycling protocol with Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs is an easier, often more tolerated alternative that overcomes these objections.

Seed cycling’s goal: Naturally balance your hormones with the moon.

So, if you want a clearer understanding of your physiology, simply start by tracking what you see in your monthly fluctuations.

I’m sure you’ve already noticed how some weeks of your monthly cycle you feel much different than others, am I right?

Some weeks you feel bloated and tired, while others have you experiencing hormonal fluctuations that leave you crying, craving, or wanting more of your partner or yourself, and then the next moment you’re completely withdrawn. Can you relate?

Queen of the Thrones how castor oil packs contribute to menopause

You see, hormonal balance is when you experience less ups and downs over your monthly moon guided period cycle. Makes sense, agreed?

It’s time to understand…

  1. Why your body does what it does.
  2. What role the moon plays in your monthly menstrual cycle and your hormone unbalance.
  3. An extra tool you should have in your self care tool box to support your hormonal balance.

Would you love that?

“Single” Seed Cycling protocol with Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs is a simple way for you to support your hormones so you can align with the moon and mother nature, the easy way.

Can the solar eclipse affect hormones?

Many have speculated about the moon’s influence on human behavior and physiology. From myths about full moons affecting moods to beliefs about lunar cycles influencing menstrual cycles. However, what about the lesser-discussed solar eclipse? Could it also have an impact on our hormones?

As we gear up for the much-anticipated solar eclipse of 2024, it’s worth exploring the relationship between this event and our hormonal balance. 

What exactly is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light. During this captivating event, the sky darkens, and observers may witness the sun’s corona, creating a spectacle that has fascinated civilizations throughout history.

What is an eclipse by Queen of the Thrones

But does this cosmic display have any tangible effects on our bodies or our hormones? While there’s limited scientific research specifically linking solar eclipses to hormonal changes, there could be a potential connection.

One area of interest is the influence of solar eclipses on melatonin production. Melatonin, often dubbed the “sleep hormone,” regulates our sleep-wake cycles and plays a crucial role in maintaining our body’s circadian rhythm. Some believe that the sudden darkness during a solar eclipse could disrupt melatonin levels, leading to temporary sleep disturbances or alterations in mood.

Can the solar eclipse affect the menstrual cycle?

Now, what about the menstrual cycle? Can a solar eclipse affect it? While there’s no direct scientific evidence linking the two, some individuals claim to experience changes in their menstrual patterns coinciding with celestial events.19 

It’s essential to approach such claims with a critical eye, recognizing that many factors influence hormonal fluctuations and menstrual cycles. Stress, diet, exercise, and overall health play significant roles in hormonal balance, often overshadowing any potential effects of celestial events like solar eclipses.

While the solar eclipse of 2024 promises to be a captivating sight, its impact on our hormones remains largely speculative.

Hormone-Balancing Carrot Juice Recipe

During the solar eclipse and other celestial events, maintaining hormonal balance is great for your self-care. Carrots, energetically resonating with the color of the sun, are believed to ground and support the body during these times.

Queen of the Thrones hormone balancing beat juice

Here’s a simple recipe for a hormone-balancing carrot juice:

Ingredients:

  • 4 large carrots, washed and trimmed
  • 1 small piece of ginger (about 1 inch), peeled
  • 1 medium-sized apple, cored and sliced
  • 1/2 lemon, peeled

Instructions:

  • Cut the carrots into smaller pieces to fit into your juicer chute.
  • Add the carrots, ginger, apple, and lemon to the juicer.
  • Turn on the juicer and process the ingredients until you get a smooth, vibrant juice.
  • Pour the juice into glasses and serve immediately.

Enjoy the refreshing and hormone-balancing benefits of this carrot juice during the solar eclipse and beyond.

Are you a practitioner, health coach or wellness influencer? If you’re interested in recommending our easy-to-use tools and practically applying them in your health and wellness professional practice, in clinic, or online with the people you serve, you can join now!

Click here for references

1. Kronfeld-Schor N, Dominoni D, de la Iglesia H, Levy O, Herzog ED, Dayan T, Helfrich-Forster C. Chronobiology by moonlight. Proc Biol Sci. 2013 Jul 3;280(1765):20123088. doi: 10.1098/rspb.2012.3088. PMID: 23825199; PMCID: PMC3712431.

2. Strowig T, Henao-Mejia J, Elinav E, Flavell R. Inflammasomes in health and disease. Nature. 2012 Jan 18;481(7381):278-86. doi: 10.1038/nature10759. PMID: 22258606.

3. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265

4. Boddu SH1, Alsaab H2, Umar S3, Bonam SP2, Gupta H2, Ahmed S3. Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery. Int J Pharm. 2015 Feb 1;479(1):207-11. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2014.12.051. Epub 2014 Dec 24.

5. Vieira C et al. .Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflamm. 2000;9(5):223-8 PMID: 11200362.

6. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265.

7. Andrade IM1, Andrade KM2, Pisani MX1, Silva-Lovato CH1, de Souza RF1, Paranhos Hde F1.Trial of an experimental castor oil solution for cleaning dentures. Braz Dent J. 2014 Jan-Feb;25(1):43-7.PMID: 24789291.

8. Badaró MM, Salles MM, Leite VMF, Arruda CNF, Oliveira VC, Nascimento CD, Souza RF, Paranhos HFO, Silva-Lovato CH. Clinical trial for evaluation of Ricinus communis and sodium hypochlorite as denture cleanser.J Appl Oral Sci. 2017 May-Jun; 25(3):324-334. PMID: 28678952.

9. Salles MM, Badaró MM, Arruda CN, Leite VM, Silva CH, Watanabe E, Oliveira Vde C, Paranhos Hde F. Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study.J Appl Oral Sci. 2015 Nov-Dec; 23(6):637-42. PMID: 26814466

10. Marcela Moreira Salles, Maurício Malheiros Badaró, Carolina Noronha Ferraz de Arruda, Vanessa Maria Fagundes Leite, Cláudia Helena Lovato da Silva, Evandro Watanabe, Viviane de Cássia Oliveira, Helena de Freitas Oliveira Paranhos, Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study. Randomized Controlled Trial J Appl Oral Sci Nov-Dec 2015;23(6):637-42. doi:10.1590/1678-775720150204. PMID: 26814466.

11. Walker SC1, Trotter PD2, Swaney WT2, Marshall A3, Mcglone FP4. C-tactile afferents: Cutaneous mediators of oxytocin release during affiliative tactile interactions? Neuropeptides. 2017 Aug;64:27-38. doi: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.01.001. Epub 2017 Jan 19. PMID: 28162847.

12. Rolls ET et all. Representations of pleasant and painful touch in the human orbitofrontal and cingulate cortices. Cereb Cortex. 2003 Mar;13(3):308-17. PMID: 12571120.

13. Francis S, Rolls ET, Bowtell R, McGlone F, O’Doherty J, Browning A, Clare S, Smith E. The representation of pleasant touch in the brain and its relationship with taste and olfactory areas. Neuroreport. 1999 Feb 25;10(3):453-9. PMID: 10208571.

14. Löken LS, Wessberg J, Morrison I, McGlone F, Olausson H. Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in humans. Nat Neurosci. 2009 May;12(5):547-8. Epub 2009 Apr 12. PMID: 19363489.

15. Kronfeld-Schor N, Dominoni D, de la Iglesia H, Levy O, Herzog ED, Dayan T, Helfrich-Forster C. Chronobiology by moonlight. Proc Biol Sci. 2013 Jul 3;280(1765):20123088. doi: 10.1098/rspb.2012.3088. PMID: 23825199; PMCID: PMC3712431.

16. Cohen-Mansfield J, Marx MS, Werner P. Full moon: does it influence agitated nursing home residents? J Clin Psychol. 1989 Jul;45(4):611-4. Doi: 10.1002/1097-4679(198907)45:4<611::aid-jclp2270450417>3.0.co;2-f. PMID: 2768501.

17. Albert K, Pruessner J, Newhouse P. Estradiol levels modulate brain activity and negative responses to psychosocial stress across the menstrual cycle. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2015 Sep;59:14-24. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.04.022. Epub 2015 May 7. PMID: 26123902; PMCID: PMC4492530.

18. Phipps WR, Martini MC, Lampe JW, Slavin JL, Kurzer MS. Effect of flax seed ingestion on the menstrual cycle. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1993 Nov;77(5):1215-9. doi: 10.1210/jcem.77.5.8077314. PMID: 8077314.

Disclaimer

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How Castor Oil Packs help with constipation from ozempic for weight loss

How Castor Oil Packs help with constipation from ozempic for weight loss

Queen of the Thrones Castor oil pack for constipation problems

How Castor Oil Packs help with constipation from ozempic for weight loss

Written by: Heather Tanti R.P.N (non-practicing)

Medically reviewed by: Victoria Williams R.H.N.

Est. reading time: 7 minutes

Beginning the road to weight loss can be a rollercoaster of emotions filled with highs and lows, agreed? And for those relying on the support of medications like Ozempic for weight loss, the journey can sometimes take an unexpected turn- cue the common, but frustrating side effect: constipation.

It’s more than just a physical discomfort; it’s a hurdle that stands in the way of your wellness goals.

So, let’s unravel the connection between Ozempic, weight loss, and the often overlooked self-care hero – Castor Oil Packs.

What is Ozempic used for?

Queen of the Thrones what is ozempic drug
Ozempic for weight loss is on the rise in popularity lately, and at times for quite controversial reasons. You see, in 2012, Novo Nordisk’s research team formulated Ozempic (also known as semaglutide), to create a diabetes treatment that would last longer than the one offered currently- liraglutide.1Although Ozempic was designed to regulate blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, its rise to fame was unexpected. Ozempic’s side effect of rapid weight loss soon caught the public’s attention, turning it into a highly sought-after drug, especially for celebrities.

Ozempic for Diabetes

Originally, Ozempic was created as a once-weekly injection that helps lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetics by helping the pancreas make more insulin. 

This medication replicates the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which our bodies naturally produce in our intestines. This hormone suppresses our appetite by signaling to our bodies that we feel full and slows down the rate at which our stomachs empty. 

As a result, individuals with obesity and related health issues have experienced weight loss with ozempic, as it helps them feel fuller faster.

Ozempic for weight loss

Although Ozempic is not primarily marketed as a weight-loss medication, research conducted by Novo Nordisk, the drug’s manufacturer, indicates that individuals who take semaglutide – the active ingredient in Ozempic – may experience weight loss.3

Although weight loss may not be the primary intended result of taking Ozempic, it can still be a significant advantage for individuals who are struggling with weight issues. It’s important to note though, that Ozempic should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

Additionally, incorporating lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential components of any successful weight loss plan.

Possible side-effects of Ozempic for weight loss

Queen of the Thrones side effects of ozempic

With every new medication comes an array of potential side-effects, agreed? Are you guilty of tuning out on those long-winded drug commercials listing their side-effects? I know I am! Ozempic is no exception when it comes to potentially unpleasant side-effects as you’re about to see.

Ozempic and constipation

When taking a medication that slows your digestive system, such as certain appetite suppressants, your stomach will take longer to empty. This results in a feeling of fullness that lasts longer, but it may also lead to a slowdown in bowel movements, delayed gastric emptying, and difficulty passing stools.4 Yikes!
While Ozempic encourages the body to make more insulin (which is great for managing blood sugar levels), insulin also slows down how fast the gut moves, which means you poop less often!5And because Ozempic makes you feel fuller longer, it may also mean you end up drinking less fluids during the day, which is a huge contributing factor to Ozempic constipation.So keep those fluids up!

Ozempic and stomach pain

Some users of Ozempic have reported experiences with flu-like symptoms, including cramps and pain.6 And because this medication has been known to alter stomach acid secretion, it can disrupt the digestive system’s food movement, resulting in abdominal discomfort.At times, abdominal pain can be a result of gastroparesis (a condition characterized by delayed stomach emptying), which can be caused by medications such as Ozempic.7 While this delay can have some encouraging effects, such as suppressing hunger and aiding weight loss efforts, it can also result in stomach discomfort.

Ozempic Face

Have you heard of ‘Ozempic face’? This is a trending topic lately as a side-effect to this medication, leaving some users of Ozempic to experience sagging and aging of facial skin.

Doctors who prescribe Ozempic often don’t talk to patients about its possible effects on the face. It’s common for users to turn to plastic surgery for help with these changes, but it can be difficult for surgeons to handle facial changes caused by quick weight loss. 

Procedures like dermal fillers, skin tightening, and surgery are often used to help restore facial volume and excess skin.8

Queen of the Thrones how ozempic affects the face

Therefore, addressing the potential impact of Ozempic on facial changes is so important, and ensuring open communication between healthcare providers and Ozempic users about this side-effect can help individuals on their weight loss journey to be more aware.

Ozempic risks

Risks associated-with the use of Ozempic by Queen of the Thrones

Allergic reactions

It is important to pay close attention to any possible signs of an allergic reaction when starting a new medication. 

These symptoms may include:

  • Redness, swelling, rash, and itching at the injection site
  • Rash, itching, or hives on the skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or other parts of the body9.

 

Additionally, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you have before starting a new medication. This will help them determine the best course of treatment for you and minimize the risk of an allergic reaction! 

Now, let’s shift our gaze to the potential link between diabetic retinopathy and Ozempic.

Diabetic retinopathy

Are you familiar with diabetic retinopathy? This is a condition that affects the eyes and is primarily seen in people with diabetes. Now, you might be wondering “How does Ozempic fit into this?”Some studies suggest a potential link between Ozempic and an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy. Patients who were treated with Ozempic and had poorly controlled blood glucose over a prolonged period, often experienced a higher number of events related to diabetic retinopathy complications.10 
Queen of the Thrones explains how diabetic retinopathy is caused

It is important to note that the link between Ozempic and diabetic retinopathy is not fully understood, and more research is needed to establish a clear causation. However, if you are taking Ozempic and notice any changes in your vision, or experience any symptoms related to diabetic retinopathy, it is important to seek medical attention.

Hypoglycemia

What exactly is hypoglycemia? Hypoglycemia refers to ‘low blood sugar’, a common occurrence in diabetics that can be dangerous. Think of it as a rollercoaster- sudden dips that can leave you feeling shaky, dizzy, sweaty, and downright uncomfortable.11While Ozempic aims to help manage blood sugar levels, we’re all biochemically unique and for some people it may contribute to hypoglycemia. So, how do you learn to spot the signs and take action if you’re experiencing low blood sugar? Awareness is key. Keeping a close eye on your glucose levels, and having snacks on hand in those moments is important.*Note that any unusual or uncomfortable side-effects/symptoms should always be reported to your healthcare provider.*

Increased risk of thyroid cancer

One Ozempic risk that has sparked conversation is the potential association with increased thyroid cancer risk.12 

While the relationship between Ozempic and thyroid cancer isn’t completely clear, some studies have hinted at an increased risk.

So, should this raise alarm bells? Not necessarily.

However, it’s important to note that the overall risk of developing thyroid cancer is still relatively low. Understanding that every medication comes with potential risks allows us to make informed choices about what may be best for our unique needs.

In the meantime, the Queen of the Thrones® Thyroid Castor Oil Pack makes an excellent self-care companion, giving your thyroid natural TLC.

Thyroid Pack applied to the neck by Queen of the Thrones

Pancreatitis

Believe it or not, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), is a risk associated with Ozempic use. Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a serious medical condition that results from inflammation of the pancreas, which produces digestive enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar levels13, making it a vital organ your body relies on.Awareness is key, and knowing the signs to watch for- such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting- will help you to be proactive in your wellness while on Ozempic.

Malnutrition from Ozempic for weight loss

While Ozempic is designed to help with weight loss and type 2 diabetes management, there is a possibility that it may contribute to malnutrition.14  

Why is that? Well, the mechanism behind this lies in Ozempic’s ability to suppress appetite, which leads to decreased food intake.

So, how exactly do you navigate this nutritional crossroad? Firstly, it’s crucial to listen to your body. 

Pay attention to hunger cues, and ensure you’re giving your body the fuel it needs to thrive with a nutritious diet that includes hearty proteins, healthy fats, and heaps of vegetables.

While the goal may be the off-brand use of Ozempic for weight-loss, it shouldn’t come at the expense of the vital nutrients your body needs to function.

Losing extreme amounts of weight can be dangerous, so being aware of how you are feeling, and staying in communication with your healthcare provider will ensure you are receiving guidance and support while using Ozempic.

Castor Oil Packs for constipation

Queen of the Thrones how Castor oil packs help ozempic constipation

Let’s be honest; nobody enjoys constipation… Stomach bloating, cramping, sharp pains… Can you relate? 

Ozempic constipation can be supported with Castor Oil Packs– a natural ally that might just add a touch of comfort when you need it most.

So how exactly do these packs work their magic? 

Castor Oil Packs are a time-tested remedy known for their potential to support balanced inflammation15, colon cleansing16, less-stress17, and best of all- more regular bowel movements!

Plus, Castor Oil Packs can be used with any medication or supplement, bringing you a reliable source of self-care you can feel good about. It often helps them work better!

Queen of the Thrones® heatless, less-mess Castor Oil Packs are your easy solution to this ancient practice that was once messy and complicated. 

Would you love to learn more about self-care with Castor Oil Packs? Check out this blog!

Keep reading to discover just how easy it is to get started with a Castor Oil Liver Pack for Ozempic constipation support and overall wellness.

How to use your Liver Castor Oil Pack

One of the best things about Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs is how easy they are to use. There’s no big list of steps needed to get started with your self-care, making it a fan-favorite for wellness made simple.

Check it out for yourself!

How to use Queen of the Thrones Castor oil pack

It gets even better my friend. You see, we didn’t just stop at the Castor Oil Pack for your liver, we took self-care further, encompassing a whole body approach to holistic wellness with:

Don’t you just love Mother Nature’s ability to bring you natural wellness solutions? 

So, if you’re navigating the ups and downs of Ozempic and its side effects, Castor Oil Packs are your go-to for simple, natural support for constipation, thyroid care, and hormone balance!

Conclusion

As we resurface from the world of Ozempic side effects, remember that your well-being is important and valued. And just like a well-prepared adventurer equips themselves with tools for the road, you’re now armed with insights into how Castor Oil Packs can help bring you comfort while navigating Ozempic constipation.

It’s important to note that while Castor Oil Packs can be a helpful addition to your constipation, they should not be used as a replacement for medical advice or guidance. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or practices. 

Taking care of your wellness is a journey, and with the right resources, you can navigate it successfully!

Are you a practitioner, health coach or wellness influencer? If you’re interested in recommending our easy-to-use tools and practically applying them in your health and wellness professional practice, in clinic, or online with the people you serve, you can join now!

Click here for references
  1. Dhillon S. Semaglutide: First Global Approval. Drugs. 2018 Feb;78(2):275-284. doi: 10.1007/s40265-018-0871-0. PMID: 29363040. 
  1. Ard J, Fitch A, Fruh S, Herman L. Weight Loss and Maintenance Related to the Mechanism of Action of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists. Adv Ther. 2021 Jun;38(6):2821-2839. doi: 10.1007/s12325-021-01710-0. Epub 2021 May 11. PMID: 33977495; PMCID: PMC8189979.
  1. Chao AM, Tronieri JS, Amaro A, Wadden TA. Semaglutide for the treatment of obesity. Trends Cardiovasc Med. 2023 Apr;33(3):159-166. doi: 10.1016/j.tcm.2021.12.008. Epub 2021 Dec 21. PMID: 34942372; PMCID: PMC9209591.
  1. Shah M, Vella A. Effects of GLP-1 on appetite and weight. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2014 Sep;15(3):181-7. doi: 10.1007/s11154-014-9289-5. PMID: 24811133; PMCID: PMC4119845.
  1. Stassen MP. La gastroparésie diabétique [Diabetic gastroparesis]. Rev Med Liege. 2005 May-Jun;60(5-6):509-15. French. PMID: 16035319.
  1. Filippatos TD, Panagiotopoulou TV, Elisaf MS. Adverse Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists. Rev Diabet Stud. 2014 Fall-Winter;11(3-4):202-30. doi: 10.1900/RDS.2014.11.202. Epub 2015 Feb 10. PMID: 26177483; PMCID: PMC5397288.
  1. Krishnasamy S, Abell TL. Diabetic Gastroparesis: Principles and Current Trends in Management. Diabetes Ther. 2018 Jul;9(Suppl 1):1-42. doi: 10.1007/s13300-018-0454-9. Epub 2018 Jun 22. PMID: 29934758; PMCID: PMC6028327.
  1. Humphrey CD, Lawrence AC. Implications of Ozempic and Other Semaglutide Medications for Facial Plastic Surgeons. Facial Plast Surg. 2023 Dec;39(6):719-721. doi: 10.1055/a-2148-6321. Epub 2023 Aug 4. PMID: 37541662.
  1. Trujillo J. Safety and tolerability of once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2020 Sep;45 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):43-60. doi: 10.1111/jcpt.13225. PMID: 32910487; PMCID: PMC7540535.
  1. Coon SA, Crannage EF, Kerwin LC, Guyton JE. Semaglutide once-weekly: improved efficacy with a new safety warning. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol. 2018 Nov;11(11):1061-1072. doi: 10.1080/17512433.2018.1534201. Epub 2018 Oct 16. PMID: 30296182.
  1. Cryer PE. Symptoms of hypoglycemia, thresholds for their occurrence, and hypoglycemia unawareness. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 1999 Sep;28(3):495-500, v-vi. doi: 10.1016/s0889-8529(05)70084-0. PMID: 10500927.
  1. Bezin J, Gouverneur A, Pénichon M, Mathieu C, Garrel R, Hillaire-Buys D, Pariente A, Faillie JL. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and the Risk of Thyroid Cancer. Diabetes Care. 2023 Feb 1;46(2):384-390. doi: 10.2337/dc22-1148. PMID: 36356111.
  1. Walkowska J, Zielinska N, Karauda P, Tubbs RS, Kurtys K, Olewnik Ł. The Pancreas and Known Factors of Acute Pancreatitis. J Clin Med. 2022 Sep 22;11(19):5565. doi: 10.3390/jcm11195565. PMID: 36233433; PMCID: PMC9571992.

     

  2. Ida S, Kaneko R, Imataka K, Okubo K, Shirakura Y, Azuma K, Fujiwara R, Murata K. Effects of Antidiabetic Drugs on Muscle Mass in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Curr Diabetes Rev. 2021;17(3):293-303. doi: 10.2174/1573399816666200705210006. PMID: 32628589.

     

  3. Vieira C et al. .Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflamm. 2000;9(5):223-8 PMID: 11200362

     

  4. Andrade IM1, Andrade KM2, Pisani MX1, Silva-Lovato CH1, de Souza RF1, Paranhos Hde F1.Trial of an experimental castor oil solution for cleaning dentures. Braz Dent J. 2014 Jan-Feb;25(1):43-7.PMID: 24789291

     

  5. Walker SC1, Trotter PD2, Swaney WT2, Marshall A3, Mcglone FP4. C-tactile afferents: Cutaneous mediators of oxytocin release during affiliative tactile interactions? Neuropeptides. 2017 Aug;64:27-38. doi: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.01.001. Epub 2017 Jan 19. PMID: 28162847
What’s the difference between cleansing and detoxification?

What’s the difference between cleansing and detoxification?

What’s the difference between cleansing and detoxification by Queen of the Thrones

What’s the difference between cleansing and detoxification?

Written by: Marisol Teijeiro N.D. (inactive)
Medically reviewed by: Melanie Swackhammer B.A.

Est. reading time: 9 minutes.

“How can I help my body cleanse and detox naturally?”

When I first heard about cleansing and detox I was under the impression that it was just a fad that would soon disappear, know what I mean?

But, the truth is, cleansing and detoxification are just as important as getting enough sleep at night and drinking enough water. Intrigued?

Well, you’re in the right place because we’re also going to uncover simple practices you can do at home so you can know how to support natural cleansing and detoxification.

So, let’s first establish what cleansing and detoxification is

Cleansing is the ability for our bodies to eliminate waste and detoxification is the process of breaking things down (toxins, heavy metals, etc.) and packaging them to be eliminated. Make sense?

When I began my journey and dove deep into the science and learning of what natural medicine truly is, I soon realized that cleansing and detoxification practices aren’t a new-age Hollywood hippie thing like I thought.

In fact, their roots date back to before Biblical times, basically to the beginning of the conscious human!

ueen of the Thrones explains that Cleansing is the ability of our bodies to eliminate waste

More and more practitioners are realizing the benefit of incorporating these treatments and therapies into their practice, and know supplements and food aren’t going to work on their own for liver detox and lymphatic cleansing.

You see, they need help from natural cleansing tools like the Queen of the Thrones®️ Castor Oil Liver Pack because everyone is pretty much walking around with a leaky gut.

According to Queen of the Thrones Detoxification is the process of breaking toxins heavy down

Hearing the word ‘cleanse’ or ‘detox’ can immediately feel intimidating, so be gentle with yourself if you feel this way. Lymphatic cleansing, colon cleansing and liver detox is for everyone!

You see, both detoxing and cleansing help with rebalancing the system, whether you’re suffering from:

  • a hormonal imbalance (infertility, menopause, estrogen dominacne, PCOS)
  • a digestive issue (leaky gut, IBS, etc.)
  • or any of the other hundreds of labels given to problems in the body

What is the difference between cleansing and detoxification?

When I began to explore cleansing and detoxing, I thought they were used interchangeably. I was confused, and I know you might be too.

Let’s start by clarifying these important terms and then delving into the 5 most important keys to re-engaging these vital life-promoting, disease-destroying functions of our glorious bodies, shall we?

Cleansing is the ability for our bodies to eliminate waste created in our systems by the foods we eat and what we accumulate just by living on planet earth.

It’s basically removing the bad stuff to make room for the good stuff!

Detoxification on the other hand, is the metabolic transformation of a substance.

In simpler terms, it’s the processes our bodies use to transform substances, preparing them to be eliminated.

Kind of like the night before garbage day. Detox is when you package up your garbage and get it ready.

Cleansing is when you actually pick up the garbage from under your sink and carry it out to the curb. Makes sense, right?

ueen of the Thrones explains that detoxing and cleansing help with rebalancing your system

But, you might be wondering…

“How does my body cleanse naturally?”

Your body cleanses through cleansing pathways and the 5 most important pathways include:

Stools – Your stools are the primary vehicle for the elimination. After all, what we eat must come out.

Urine – Your pee is the primary vehicle that eliminates what the stools cannot, which is often excesses of heavy metals and other substances such as uric acid.

Sweat – A secondary cleansing pathway. That’s why some people like to use dry saunas as a way to cleanse through sweating. People often notice a smelly body odor if they’re having problems with constipation. This just shows how smart our bodies are! You see, our bodies are always searching for a way to get the things out that are no good for us.

Breath – This is an easy one because breath is well known for the elimination of carbon dioxide.

Periods – For women, our periods are a vehicle for eliminating toxicity.

As for women experiencing menopause, it’s researched that after losing their periods, they’ll experience hot flashes as an adaptation to continue elimination, since they’re so toxic.

So, simply put: in order for the body to cleanse, hot flashes replace periods.

Discover with Queen of the Thrones®️ how the body cleanses

What are the stages of detox within the body?

Detoxification mainly occurs in 3 phases in 4 places of the body:

 

  1. Liver – Phase 1 and 2 detoxification helps to package and transform substances that aren’t easy to eliminate via the cleansing pathways, so that’s where the liver comes in.
  2. Kidneys – Part of phase 3 happens in the kidneys, where further filtration occurs.
  3. Mucous Membranes – Part of phase 3 happens within mucous membranes and is most predominant in the gut. This is the final stage of detoxification before cleansing.
  4. Various cells in the body – All aid in the detoxification process.
Learn what are the three faces of detox with Queen of the Thrones

Both cleansing and detoxification are deeply connected, make sense?

Many of my patients have asked me where to begin when approaching a cleanse or detox.

The best part about cleansing is that it doesn’t have to be overly complicated, especially when you’re in the stage of simply exploring just how smart your body is.

So how about starting with the basics: having healthy bowel movements. Sounds easy, right?

The best part? Your Queen of the Thrones®️ Castor Oil Pack for Liver Kit is your new and easy way to support healthy bowel movements1, better absorption2 as well as colon cleansing plus lymphatic and liver detox3. Amazing, right?

So, to help you start your journey into cleansing, I’ve created a FREE easy guideline that supports natural cleansing and yes, healthy bowel movements are part of it, too.

After all, having good bowel movements starts with how you digest and absorb your food.

According to Queen of the Thrones water is one of the easiest ways for our bodies to cleanse and detox

Don’t worry, this isn’t where I tell you to drink nothing but prune juice for 3 days.

This is where I tell you that beginning to cleanse can be as easy as incorporating drinking more water into the daily rituals you already do.

Plus, cleansing is as easy as adding new natural health tools into your daily practices so you can…

  • Restore flow to your body
  • Support better absorption from your food and supplements
  • Enhance your body’s natural cleansing pathways

Are you a practitioner, health coach or wellness influencer? If you’re interested in recommending our easy-to-use tools and practically applying them in your health and wellness professional practice in clinic or online with the people you serve or become a wholesale partner, contact us at: royalty@queenofthethrones.com

Click here for references

1. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265.

2. Boddu SH1, Alsaab H2, Umar S3, Bonam SP2, Gupta H2, Ahmed S3. Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery. Int J Pharm. 2015 Feb 1;479(1):207-11. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2014.12.051. Epub 2014 Dec 24.

3. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Any opinions, advice, statements, services, offers, information or content expressed or made available by third parties, including information providers, are those of the respective authors or distributors. Neither Queen of the Thrones® nor any third-party provider of information guarantees the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any content. This communication does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Information provided does not replace the advice of your health care practitioner. If you happen to purchase anything we promote, in this or any of our communications, it’s likely Queen of the Thrones® will receive some kind of affiliate compensation. Still, we only promote content and products that we truly believe in and share with our friends, family and patients. If you ever have a concern with anything we share, please let us know at care@queenofthethrones.com. We want to make sure we are always serving Our Queendom at the highest level.

Can I do a Castor Oil Pack without the pack / compress?

Can I do a Castor Oil Pack without the pack / compress?

Can I do a Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Pack without the pack compress

Can I do a Castor Oil Pack without the pack / compress?

Written by: Heather Tanti RPN (non-practicing)
Medically reviewed by: Marisol Teijeiro N.D. (inactive) & Melanie Swackhammer B.A.

Est. reading time: 10 minutes.

So, you’ve heard of Castor Oil Packs because you’ve been prescribed them from your Naturopathic Doctor, Functional Medicine Practitioner, or maybe you’ve heard about them from your favorite natural health influencer, right?

You love the idea of them because of all the amazing benefits, like…

  • Improved bowel movements1and better absorption2
  • Reduced core inflammation3
  • Liver detox4 and microbiome gut health5-6-7-8
  • Enhanced relaxation and better sleep9-10-11-12

While an interesting protocol, seed cycling for hormone imbalance requires the patient to ingest seeds like flax, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower on specific weeks of their cycle.

BUT you can’t help but think to yourself… “Do I need the compress for Castor Oil Packs?”

The doctor dresses the wound and the nature heals it by Queen of the Thrones

“Why can’t I just rub Castor Oil on my stomach, throw an old t-shirt on, and call it a day?”

Call it a pack, a compress, or a wrap, either way, if you want the benefit of the Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack for Liver Kit or Castor Oil Pack for Fertility, you need it to get the job done properly.

Sounds like I’m trying to sell you something, agreed? Well, you are right, essentially.

I’m selling you on the benefits of this ancient health practice, and doing it the right way as it was intended, thankfully now with some easy tools created by a Naturopathic Doctor, for herself, her patients and her practice, to help her patients comply and get the results they were looking for.

You see, with the nightly repetition of your Castor Oil Pack, the oil is only 50% of the treatment effect, the main purpose isn’t necessarily the oil, although most people think that it is.

Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Packs reduce inflammation from the outside in

The oil is supportive to reduce inflammation from the outside in, but what supports the body most is actually the use of the compress with the health-promoting action of CASTOR OIL.

Together, castor oil and the compress, pack or wrap, as people call it, have been used for centuries, and has since established its place in medicine.

But, like everything…

A Castor Oil Pack treatment must be done the right way, using the right tools.

It’s become a habit to skip a step, and to simply rub or roll on the Castor Oil over the liver, belly or pelvic region, or wherever else you may use the pack. Although this does provide benefit, we are missing the effect from the compress. Think of it like one large physiological bandage for your liver, pelvic region or belly.

The effect of a bandage is to draw the attention of the nervous system, by stimulation of the skin receptors, c-tactile receptors as well as others. This nervous system stimulation through the skin, actually acts as an escape button, to shift the body into the parasympathetic relaxed state,13-14-15-16 activating the Vagus nerve.

 

In addition, the pack keeps in heat, which, based on the principle of hydrotherapy, supports circulation and increases blood flow. With this comes nutrients and healing factors.

Plus, the pressure of the pack supports deeper permeation of the oil, which already is able to permeate the dermis, unlike other oils, so true activity can be realized.

Loving what you’re reading?

When Castor Oil is simply applied topically, without the pack, it’s as simple as a skin emollient.

This is why one cannot do what has been called the ‘ lazy mans’ Castor Oil Pack’, which is the practice of just applying oil to your skin and skipping the compress altogether.

You might be wondering, why does the compress matter this much?

Well, worn nightly as a compress, your Queen of the Thrones ® Castor Oil Pack has parasympathetic promoting effects, according to dermatological scientific research on neuro reaction to material softness and oil sensations on skin.17-18

In turn, this supports a shift into the parasympathetic nervous system, rest, digest and detox state, which is key to improving hormone imbalances and gut health. Sounds amazing, agreed?

Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Pack help you to rest digest and detox

Applying Castor Oil topically to your skin with your Castor Oil Pack compress, allows it to work from the outside IN.

But how does your Castor Oil Pack practice do this?

You see, Castor Oil is known as a carrier oil, meaning, due to its molecular weight of ricinoleic acid19 (the major triglyceride chain making up approximately 90% of Castor Oil), it is effective topically, and only requires a minimal daily dosage.

It takes less than 2 tablespoons of Castor Oil placed on the pack at night, and much stays on the flannel, making it much less messy, and more convenient than traditional Castor Oil treatments. Amazing, agreed?

Repetitive nightly practice is like the training of the olympian athlete. Stay with me here.

The more you repeat it, the more your body can naturally bring on the relaxed state and shift from the sympathetic stressed state of hormonal imbalance, leaky gut and metabolic syndrome, to a calm, balanced parasympathetic state, all due to nightly application.

In chronobiology medicine, this is known as entrainement.20-21

Our bodies are entrained by 2 factors:

  1. An internal genetic body clock
  2. An external zeitgeber
Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Pack naturally bring on your body to a relaxed state

What we are not too busy to do is easily place a Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack on the liver or pelvic region, before bed.

You, my friend, for your patients, clients or yourself can achieve this with practice, repetition and habit creation!

Are you a practitioner, health coach or wellness influencer? If you’re interested in recommending our easy-to-use tools and practically applying them in your health and wellness professional practice, in clinic, or online with the people you serve, you can join now!

Click here for references

1. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265

2. Boddu SH1, Alsaab H2, Umar S3, Bonam SP2, Gupta H2, Ahmed S3. Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery. Int J Pharm. 2015 Feb 1;479(1):207-11. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2014.12.051. Epub 2014 Dec 24.

3. Vieira C et al. .Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators Inflamm. 2000;9(5):223-8 PMID: 11200362.

4. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in opti-sol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265.

5. Andrade IM1, Andrade KM2, Pisani MX1, Silva-Lovato CH1, de Souza RF1, Paranhos Hde F1.Trial of an experimental castor oil solution for cleaning dentures. Braz Dent J. 2014 Jan-Feb;25(1):43-7.PMID: 24789291

6. Badaró MM, Salles MM, Leite VMF, Arruda CNF, Oliveira VC, Nascimento CD, Souza RF, Paranhos HFO, Silva-Lovato CH. Clinical trial for evaluation of Ricinus communis and sodium hypochlorite as denture cleanser.J Appl Oral Sci. 2017 May-Jun; 25(3):324-334. PMID: 28678952

7. Salles MM, Badaró MM, Arruda CN, Leite VM, Silva CH, Watanabe E, Oliveira Vde C, Paranhos Hde F. Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study.J Appl Oral Sci. 2015 Nov-Dec; 23(6):637-42. PMID: 26814466.

8. Marcela Moreira Salles, Maurício Malheiros Badaró, Carolina Noronha Ferraz de Arruda, Vanessa Maria Fagundes Leite, Cláudia Helena Lovato da Silva, Evandro Watanabe, Viviane de Cássia Oliveira, Helena de Freitas Oliveira Paranhos, Antimicrobial activity of complete denture cleanser solutions based on sodium hypochlorite and Ricinus communis – a randomized clinical study. Randomized Controlled Trial J Appl Oral Sci Nov-Dec 2015;23(6):637-42. doi:10.1590/1678-775720150204. PMID: 26814466.

9. Walker SC1, Trotter PD2, Swaney WT2, Marshall A3, Mcglone FP4. C-tactile afferents: Cutaneous mediators of oxytocin release during affiliative tactile interactions? Neuropeptides. 2017 Aug;64:27-38. doi: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.01.001. Epub 2017 Jan 19. PMID: 28162847.

10. Rolls ET et all. Representations of pleasant and painful touch in the human orbitofrontal and cingulate cortices. Cereb Cortex. 2003 Mar;13(3):308-17. PMID: 12571120.

11. Francis S, Rolls ET, Bowtell R, McGlone F, O’Doherty J, Browning A, Clare S, Smith E. The representation of pleasant touch in the brain and its relationship with taste and olfactory areas. Neuroreport. 1999 Feb 25;10(3):453-9. PMID: 10208571.

12. Löken LS, Wessberg J, Morrison I, McGlone F, Olausson H. Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in humans. Nat Neurosci. 2009 May;12(5):547-8. Epub 2009 Apr 12. PMID: 19363489.

13. Walker SC1, Trotter PD2, Swaney WT2, Marshall A3, Mcglone FP4. C-tactile afferents: Cutaneous mediators of oxytocin release during affiliative tactile interactions? Neuropeptides. 2017 Aug;64:27-38. doi: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.01.001. Epub 2017 Jan 19. PMID: 28162847 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28162847

14. Rolls ET et all. Representations of pleasant and painful touch in the human orbitofrontal and cingulate cortices. Cereb Cortex. 2003 Mar;13(3):308-17. PMID: 12571120 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12571120.

15. Francis S, Rolls ET, Bowtell R, McGlone F, O’Doherty J, Browning A, Clare S, Smith E. The representation of pleasant touch in the brain and its relationship with taste and olfactory areas. Neuroreport. 1999 Feb 25;10(3):453-9. PMID: 10208571 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10208571.

16. Löken LS, Wessberg J, Morrison I, McGlone F, Olausson H. Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in humans. Nat Neurosci. 2009 May;12(5):547-8. Epub 2009 Apr 12. PMID: 19363489 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19363489.

17. Francis S, Rolls ET, Bowtell R, McGlone F, O’Doherty J, Browning A, Clare S, Smith E. The representation of pleasant touch in the brain and its relationship with taste and olfactory areas. Neuroreport. 1999 Feb 25;10(3):453-9. PMID: 10208571 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10208571.

18. Löken LS, Wessberg J, Morrison I, McGlone F, Olausson H. Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in humans. Nat Neurosci. 2009 May;12(5):547-8. Epub 2009 Apr 12. PMID: 19363489 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19363489.

19. PubChem [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US), National Center for Biotechnology Information; 2004-. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 643684, Ricinoleic acid; [cited 2022 Mar. 31].

20. Golombek DA, Rosenstein RE. Physiology of circadian entrainment. Physiol Rev. 2010 Jul;90(3):1063-102. doi: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2009. PMID: 20664079.

21. Kronfeld-Schor N, Dominoni D, de la Iglesia H, Levy O, Herzog ED, Dayan T, Helfrich-Forster C. Chronobiology by moonlight. Proc Biol Sci. 2013 Jul 3;280(1765):20123088. doi: 10.1098/rspb.2012.3088. PMID: 23825199; PMCID: PMC3712431.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Any opinions, advice, statements, services, offers, information or content expressed or made available by third parties, including information providers, are those of the respective authors or distributors. Neither Queen of the Thrones® nor any third-party provider of information guarantees the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any content. This communication does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Information provided does not replace the advice of your health care practitioner. If you happen to purchase anything we promote, in this or any of our communications, it’s likely Queen of the Thrones® will receive some kind of affiliate compensation. Still, we only promote content and products that we truly believe in and share with our friends, family and patients. If you ever have a concern with anything we share, please let us know at care@queenofthethrones.com. We want to make sure we are always serving Our Queendom at the highest level.

Diastasis Recti and Constipation | Two Common Postpartum Body Challenges

Diastasis Recti and Constipation | Two Common Postpartum Body Challenges

Learn with Queen of the Thrones how Diastasis Recti and Constipation are Two Common Postpartum Body Challenges

Diastasis Recti and Constipation | Two Common Postpartum Body Challenges

Written by: Kim Vopni, The Vagina Coach.

Est. reading time: 9 minutes.

There are two things that I will never forget about the early hours after giving birth to my first son Diastasis Recti and Constipation.

I remember how disconnected my upper body felt from my lower body when I got up to go to the bathroom for the first time after my baby entered the world.  I felt like I had to hold myself together.

Queen of the Thrones® explains how constipation cause inflamed belly

There are two things that I will never forget about the early hours after giving birth to my first son Diastasis Recti and Constipation.

I remember how disconnected my upper body felt from my lower body when I got up to go to the bathroom for the first time after my baby entered the world.  I felt like I had to hold myself together.

What was a fairly tight compact part of my body, was now a vacant space with very little tone.  The muscles in my abdominal wall had stretched well beyond their normal, optimal length and the rectus muscles (think 6 pack) had also moved away from their midline position – a condition known as diastasis recti.  

As I sat down to pee, I had a sudden panic attack knowing that at some point I was also going to have to poop! 

The thought of that first bowel movement after giving birth is almost scarier than the birth itself! This fear coupled with other influences I will elaborate on below, can contribute to postpartum constipation.  

Diastasis Recti and constipation are very common and with the right information, can be very well managed and don’t have to be a big deal in the early postpartum period or beyond.  Let’s look first at constipation.

Postpartum Constipation

Once the baby is born, we as parents start to diligently record every feed and every poop our baby makes.  What no one really thinks about is that the new mom would benefit from having someone do the same for her. Nutrition is a key element of postpartum healing and can play a huge role in healing and nourishing the body as well as managing bowel movements therefore reducing the likelihood of constipation.

Labour typically slows down the digestive system, especially if you had an epidural and it can take a few days to get back on track.  Other things that can influence the digestive system in the early weeks postpartum are pain medications, iron supplementation and fear of pooping.

A lot happens in the pelvis and to the vagina, perineum and anus – things like tearing, stitches, tenderness and hemorrhoids.  The thought of anything else passing through can be a bit stressful to say the least. Stress activates the ‘fight or flight’ response which reduces blood flow to the digestive system and can contribute to constipation.

From a Chinese medicine perspective the first system that needs to be addressed in postpartum healing is the digestive system.  The digestive system is responsible for transforming food into blood and energy and if digestion is off, then the body will not benefit from the food consumed and therefore not build the blood and energy needed for healing.

Mother Roasting

It is also believed in Chinese Medicine that the body has ‘opened’ during pregnancy and birth and is therefore susceptible to ‘wind’ or ‘cold’.  New mothers have a 30 day period of “sitting in” where the mother does not go out and is instead served warm soups, stews, and broths that are easy to digest.

Korea has a 100 day period where the mother and child do not leave the home. In Japan, the mother and baby stay at the mother’s parent’s home for some pampering and one-on-one time with the baby. India and African nations include traditions of 10-40 day isolations where additional support is provided including massage, childcare and food preparation.

Other practices from places like Malaysia include belly binding and hot stones on the abdomen to help cleanse it, close it and heal it.

These practices not only allow the body time to recover from the trauma of giving birth but provide a period of mental rest that I firmly believe creates a solid foundation for mom and baby from day one.

According with Queen of the Thrones® the digestive system gets stressed by constipation
Belly wrapping support the pelvis and abdominal wall

The belief of the need to ‘close’ the body is justified.  Diastasis Recti has been shown to happen to 100% of women in the third trimester and the gap between the muscles doesn’t always return to its pre-pregnancy state, nor does the connective tissue naturally regain its supportive tensioning role in the core. The muscles in the pelvic floor have also stretched and in some cases have been cut or torn which can contribute to challenges with core control and continence.

Belly wrapping or belly binding aims to provide temporary compression and support to the pelvis and abdominal wall in the early weeks postpartum when the muscles are temporarily hindered in their ability to contribute to core control.  

The muscles and connective tissue in the abdominal wall and pelvis are key with regards to stability and control in our inner core but so are the bones and joints. In the pelvis, the shape of the bones provides what is called ‘form closure’ while the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue contribute to what is called ‘force closure’. During pregnancy biomechanical changes occur in the body which can reduce the effectiveness of both form and force closure such as;

  • Altered posture and load bearing;
  • Altered muscle length in the pelvic floor and abdomen (both longer and shorter) which results in reduced ability for muscle force production;
  • The role of relaxing and progesterone contribute to joint laxity and when the ligaments are lax it affects the force closure.
  • The abdominal muscles are stretched to allow space for the enlarging uterus, which can lead to loss of muscle tone and strength in the abdominal region and a compromised ability to produce tension in the thoracolumbar fascia, resulting in reduced force closure in the pelvis;
  • Diastasis recti is a distortion in the abdominal wall and can impair the function of the muscles including their role in posture and pelvic stability;
  • The transversus abdominis, multifidus, diaphragm and the pelvic floor are all anticipatory muscles of the core and are required for force closure in the pelvis – all are affected by posture and alignment changes in pregnancy
  • Intra-abdominal pressure – altered mechanics and alignment mean management of intra-abdominal pressure will change

The benfits of Castor Oil include these three main functions:nutrient-rich, pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory.

Add a Fascia Massage Roller to these benefitsand you’ve now super boosted these functions.

You see, combining Castor Oil to your Fascia Massage Roller practice helps to massage the tight tissues and adhesions found along energetic pathways that can become blocked by physical or emotional trauma.

And the benefits of this practice are:

  • Breaking down of scar tissue from injury, cesarean section, surgery, and/or endometriosis
  • Fade stretch marks from weight gain or postpartum
  • Fascia release for sore muscles and tight IT bands
  • Lymphatic drainage and circulation
  • Support smoothing out cellulite

Sounds amazing, right?

Intra-Abdominal Pressure

We can’t talk about postpartum recovery and wrapping without talking about intra-abdominal pressure.

Intra-abdominal pressure is defined as the pressure within the abdominal cavity.  It is part of our core stability system.  We need some, but not too much and we need an ability to manage the varying pressures throughout the day. When we take a breath in, the diaphragm descends and there is a compression action on the abdominal contents which acts to stabilize the pelvis and spine.  We can have too much pressure such as a Valsalva maneuverer which is an inhale, then breath hold while bearing down.  This often results in a distended abdomen and can place pressure on the pelvic organs as well.

We can’t talk about postpartum recovery and wrapping without talking about intra-abdominal pressure.

Intra-abdominal pressure is defined as the pressure within the abdominal cavity.  It is part of our core stability system.  We need some, but not too much and we need an ability to manage the varying pressures throughout the day. When we take a breath in, the diaphragm descends and there is a compression action on the abdominal contents which acts to stabilize the pelvis and spine. 

We can have too much pressure such as a Valsalva maneuverer which is an inhale, then breath hold while bearing down.  This often results in a distended abdomen and can place pressure on the pelvic organs as well.

The reverse can also be seen in a technique called “hypopressives” which decreases intra-abdominal pressure and results in a hollowing or concavity of the abdomen.  A reliance on one may result in a compromised ability to manage changes in intra-abdominal pressure such as during lifting or exercise.

Crunches were given a bad rap because they cause an increase in intra-abdominal pressure but a study found that activities like standing up from a chair or downward dog pose in yoga actually created equal or greater increases in intra-abdominal pressure which suggests that managing intra-abdominal pressure is more about HOW a person performs a movement or exercise rather than the exercise itself.

Wrapping is often considered to be a practice that increases intra-abdominal pressure and it can when done incorrectly.  Wrapping is ideally done to temporarily contribute to force closure in the pelvis with some gentle hugging of the abdominal wall.

Many mistakenly wrap only the waist and wrap very tightly in hopes that it will help heal the gap between the abdominals (diastasis recti).  Instead it increases intra-abdominal pressure, it interferes with digestion and it restricts optimal breathing patterns which can prevent healing of the abdominal wall and pelvic floor and can also contribute to constipation.

My recommendations for postpartum recovery include principles that support rest and belly wrapping in the early weeks postpartum, core retraining with pelvic floor initiated movements, a balance between hyper and hypopressive exercise and nutrition that is based on the traditional practices of mother roasting to support optimal digestion.

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