Are the influencers right, does it really work ?
I’m always intrigued by new viral health trends, especially those that are affordable and seemingly risk-free. Recently, I stumbled upon the concept of navel pulling, which involves placing castor oil in your belly button and massaging it to support digestion and liver function. Intrigued by the countless TikToks from influencers claiming reduced bloating and better gut health, I decided to give it a try.
The Basics of Navel Pulling
The key to this trend is using cold-pressed castor oil in a glass bottle to ensure its purity and effectiveness. The process is simple: apply a small amount of oil to your navel, gently massage it in circular motions, and let it absorb. It sounded easy enough, and I was curious to see if it would live up to the hype.
My First Experience
After my first night of trying navel pulling, I woke up to some noticeable effects. First and foremost, I needed the bathroom immediately. It felt like my system was having a thorough cleanse. However, I didn’t notice any significant weight loss or dramatic changes in my appearance, though I did feel lighter and less bloated.
One thing I noticed from social media was the mixed reviews. While some people swear by it, others report feeling unwell the next day with tummy issues and flu-like symptoms. This variation might depend on factors like how much oil is used or individual differences in response. It’s clear that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all remedy,
Consistency Is Key
I decided to incorporate navel pulling into my routine 3-4 times a week. The results weren’t always consistent, but I did experience a noticeable reduction in bloating most of the time. Castor oil is known for its deep-penetrating properties and numerous benefits for digestion, even if the exact effects aren’t always immediately apparent.
Enhancing the Experience with a Castor Oil Pack
Inspired by more social media tips, I decided to try a castor oil pack. This involves using a piece of fabric soaked in castor oil, wrapped around the abdomen, and warmed with a hot water bottle or heating pad. The added heat helps the oil penetrate deeper into the skin. While it’s an extra step, I found it quite soothing and potentially more effective.
Beyond the Belly Button
One of the great things about castor oil is its versatility. On nights when I’m not using it for navel pulling, I apply it to my skin and hair. It’s an excellent moisturizer, though a bit sticky. Mixing it with a carrier oil helps make it more manageable. Even if navel pulling isn’t for everyone, castor oil has many other benefits, from improving skin hydration to promoting hair health. Here is the one that I used, available on Amazon by Pearl Natural Oils
Final Thoughts
After several weeks of incorporating navel pulling into my nighttime routine, I’ve decided to stick with it. While it doesn’t deliver dramatic results every time, I appreciate the way it makes my stomach feel in the morning. About two out of every three uses leave me feeling de-bloated and lighter. For me, it’s worth continuing, especially since it’s easy to do and fits seamlessly into my self-care routine.
If you’re curious about navel pulling, it’s definitely worth a try. Just remember to start with a high-quality cold-pressed castor oil, listen to your body, and adjust your approach as needed. At the very least, you’ll have a fantastic new oil for your skincare and haircare needs!
Here is the link to the product that I used. Pearls Natural Oils
