What is the Difference Between Cold-Pressed vs Expeller-Pressed Castor Oil

What is the Difference Between Cold-Pressed vs Expeller-Pressed Castor Oil

Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil in different sizes

What is the Difference Between Cold-Pressed vs Expeller-Pressed Castor Oil

Written by: Victoria Williams

How do you know you’re getting top quality Castor Oil? Is it enough to know that it’s organic? Or how about the extraction method? Have you ever wondered what the terms, cold-pressed or expeller-pressed mean or wondered how the extraction method of your Castor Oil affects its quality, and more importantly, its nutrient integrity? 

Afterall, you use Castor Oil because it’s loaded with nutrients, agreed? So, let’s explore the different extraction methods, how they work, their uses, and how all these factors affect that luscious oil you know and love.

Key Points:

  1. Castor Oil has a high stability level that makes it able to withstand high temperatures.
  2. Castor Oil’s nutrients do not begin to break down until the oil is exposed to 302°F (150°C).
  3. Expeller pressing only exposes the oil to 140-210°F (60-99°C).

The variable nature of Castor Oil

When buying large quantities of bulk Castor Oil, suppliers like Queen of the Thrones® must consider the quality of the beans themselves, and then choose the extraction method that will yield the best quality oil. 

As with any crop, the castor bean is affected by many environmental conditions. Sometimes the crop is abundant with super healthy castor beans, and other times the crop may be scanty. 

Because of this, Castor Oil, whether expeller or cold-pressed, goes through rigorous testing to determine if the product meets nutrient requirements. Here at Queen of the Thrones® we use a third party to test our Castor Oil, and from there we make a decision on whether to buy it.

Castor oil plus Castor Oil Packs Benefits by Queen of the Thrones

Does expeller-pressing destroy nutrients? 

It’s important to remember that because Castor Oil is a natural product, its composition may vary from batch to batch. 

Sometimes cold-pressed Castor Oil may test better, while other times, expeller-pressed Castor Oil may be the optimal choice. Every batch of Castor Oil is unique, and the quality must be verified through testing. 

Third-party testing of Queen of the Thrones® expeller-pressed Castor Oil shows that it meets key specifications, including fatty acids/ricinoleic acid profile and saponification within the same strict range of standards as cold-pressed Castor Oil. 

So whether you use it in a Castor Oil Liver Pack, Thyroid Pack, Pelvic Pack, or Eye Compress, remember that rigorous testing ensures the safety and quality of the Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil. 

From bean to oil: Castor Oil extraction

The Castor Bean Extraction Process: 

Organic Castor Oil extraction by Queen of the Thrones

Stage 1: Seed Collection

Ripe castor plants are selected for seed collection. The process begins by exposing these plants to the sun’s warmth, causing them to split open naturally, allowing the seeds to be gathered.

Stage 2: Dehulling

The castor seeds are stripped of their outer layers, a process that can be done manually or mechanically with the assistance of a castor bean dehuller.

Stage 3: Cleaning

After dehulling, the seeds undergo a thorough cleaning process to eliminate impurities such as sand, leaves, sticks, stems, and dirt. A seed cleaner equipped with revolving screens or reels is employed for this purpose.

Stage 4: Drying

To reduce moisture content and catalyze the extraction process, cleaned seeds are gently heated in a steam-jacketed vessel. This step hardens the seeds, preparing them for pressing.

Stage 5: Cold or Expeller Pressed

High-pressure crushing of seeds occurs in this stage. The extracted oil is filtered, and the residual bulk is blended with fresh seeds for further pressing, while the resulting residual bulk is referred to as Castor Cake.

Stage 6: Filtration

The oil is filtered through a fine filtration system to remove both small and large impurities.

Stage 7: Packaging

The final stage in processing is packaging the oil into steel or plastic drums (Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil is always in steel) to transport it to a bottling facility.

Stage 8: Bottling 

The Castor Oil is bottled into its final container, either plastic or glass, and ready for the wellness consumer to purchase (Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil will ALWAYS be bottled in glass!).

What is the difference between expeller and cold-pressed Castor Oil?

Expeller-Pressed Oils

The expeller pressing method involves physically pressing castor beans to extract the oils, avoiding the use of chemicals. While this technique employs pressure for oil extraction, the pressure itself can generate temperatures between 140-210°F, so it is not considered a true “cold processed” method.

Expeller pressing is a more efficient method of extraction because the heat that is produced helps extract MORE oil, meaning a higher yield is produced, and less of the plant is wasted. While this heat is higher than in cold pressing, it is still considered relatively low. 

Cold-Pressed Oils

Cold pressing oil, on the other hand, also generates heat, but it does not surpass 122°F during extraction.
In this process, the oil is extracted using methods such as bladder pressing (for softer fruits), hydraulic pressing, or low-resistance expeller pressing to ensure the temperature stays below 122°F. Sometimes cold water may be run through the machine to keep temperatures cooler.

How Castor Oil’s composition protects its nutrients from heat exposure

Castor Oil is rich and viscous. If you’ve used it, you’re familiar with its thick, sticky texture. And while this can make it messy to work with, it also helps protect its nutrients from heat. Castor Oil is considered to have a very high stability level, thanks to the high percentage of ricinoleic acid, which “…does not oxidize easily.” 1
Methods of Castor Oil extraction by Queen of the Thrones
The oxidative stability of Castor Oil is 230°F1 2, and it doesn’t disintegrate until temperatures above 302°F3. So basically, the nutrients in Castor Oil don’t start to break down until it reaches these high temperatures. 

So, how does this play into the extraction method? 

Expeller pressing can expose the oil to temperatures up to 210°F, while cold pressing exposes the oil to up to 122°F – so neither method comes close to damaging the oil. 

But when it comes to heat and extraction methods, it appears that Castor Oil’s nutrients stay intact. Why? Because the oil must reach 230°F before it begins oxidizing and the nutrients start to break down.

And this is amazing because you can rest easy with the knowledge that the Castor Oil you know and love so much is also providing you with the nutrients you expect it to have!  

Would you love to know more about the history, benefits and versatile usage of Castor Oil? Download your free eGuide now, Castor Oil: Magic or Myth? 

Castor oil uses and benefits

Queen of the Thrones Castor oil Pack versatile uses

If you’re reading this, you probably already know how Castor Oil is used, but just in case you don’t, we’re going to give you a thumbnail of its uses here.

Castor Oil has been used since ancient times as a beauty aid, in more recent times as a stimulant laxative, moisturizer, and most importantly, in Castor Oil Packs.

Liver Castor Oil Packs are the most well known application for Castor Oil because they are thought to have the most systemic benefits for the body when worn on the liver area. From hormone balance, to inflammation support to lymph flow, better sleep, digestion, and detox… the liver area is where the OG Castor Oil Pack was worn. 

A Thyroid Castor Oil Pack is thought to have similar benefits focused on the thyroid gland, but is famously known for helping to reduce the appearance of aging and wrinkles on the neck… amazing for supporting hormone balance!

Another common use of Castor Oil Packs is in the Pelvic and Hip area. Beloved by women (and men) of all ages, a pack worn in this area is thought to support the reproductive organs. This ancient practice is used to support fibroids, endometriosis, period pain, and perimenopause symptoms

Breast Castor Oil Packs are thought to support lymphatic drainage and blood flow to the breasts. These are both key components for breast health, especially since many women are used to wearing restricting bras. 

Lastly, the Castor Oil Eye Compress is a fan favorite because Castor Oil is well known for supporting the appearance of crow’s feet and dark circles, as well as supporting thick luscious lashes and bold beautiful brows. Not only that, but wearing an eye compress to sleep may help support natural melatonin production4 5.

You can see why it is such a well-loved oil, agreed? 

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. Harhar & al. Chemical characterization and oxidative stability of castor oil grown in Morocco. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry 4 N°2 (2016) 279-284

2. Ntsako Portia Chauke, Hembe Elie Mukaya, Diakanua Bavon Nkazi Chemical modifications of castor oil: A review. Science Progress 2019, Vol. 102(3) 199–217 © The Author(s) 2019

3. Patel VR, Dumancas GG, Kasi Viswanath LC, Maples R, Subong BJ. Castor Oil: Properties, Uses, and Optimization of Processing Parameters in Commercial Production. Lipid Insights. 2016 Sep 7;9:1-12. doi: 10.4137/LPI.S40233. PMID: 27656091; PMCID: PMC5015816.

4. Rong-fang Hu, Xiao-ying Jiang, Yi-ming Zeng, Xiao-yang Chen, You-hua Zhang. Effects of earplugs and eye masks on nocturnal sleep, melatonin and cortisol in a simulated intensive care unit environment. Published online 2010 Apr 18. PMID: 20398302

5. Khoddam H, Maddah SA, Rezvani Khorshidi S, Zaman Kamkar M, Modanloo M. The effects of earplugs and eye masks on sleep quality of patients admitted to coronary care units: A randomised clinical trial. J Sleep Res. 2022 Apr;31(2):e13473. doi: 10.1111/jsr.13473. Epub 2021 Sep 12. PMID: 34514653. 

Natural Solutions for Holistic Breast Wellness

Natural Solutions for Holistic Breast Wellness

Learn about breast health with Queen of the Thrones®

Natural Solutions for Holistic Breast Wellness

Written by: Marisol Teijeiro N.D. (inactive).
Medically reviewed by: Victoria Williams R.H.N.

Est. reading time: 6 minutes.

I used to look at my breasts in the mirror, pulling one up and comparing it to the other. I would wish so hard to have perky, stand-up-here breasts instead of pendulous, way down-there-puppies with sparkling, multicolored stretch marks.
  Weight changes and overnutrition in my youth never gave me the opportunity to have perky, perfect breasts. Instead, I went from flat to fat and then stretched out to swinging and saggy. Breasts define our femininity in many ways, we feel sexy because of them and un-sexy in spite of them. I recall getting intimate with my husband and being so ashamed to get naked in front of him. I apologetically told him I needed to be honest with him and tell him that my breasts sagged, instead of being heralds of fertility and proud of them with pomp and circumstance. I felt deflated because of them just like they were deflated. Turns out he didn’t care. He actually knew, and had been staring down my top for a while and loved what he was seeing – without me knowing!

Why are breasts such a big deal?

Breasts are bold, they stick out from our bodies. They are the first thing that enters the room, the first thing in many cases that get noticed.

Men obsess about them, maybe because they have mother and latching issues, or maybe because they just adore the difference between male and female bodies.

Whether you think your breasts are too large or too small, they are a source of shame for many. It’s time to take this inappropriate thought pattern and shove it where the sun don’t shine.

It’s our time to be proud of all of our shapes and sizes and stretch marks. Be proud of the pleasure they bring us, from foreplay to feeding our babies.

Breast judgments

My first encounter with the dangers of judgments made on breasts wasn’t my own, but actually my mother’s. When she was a dashing young lady, she had gone to the doctor’s office to have her yearly check-up and breast exam.

Upon taking off her shirt to be examined, the doctor gasped at how large her breasts were (super inappropriate FYI, in this day and age but this was back in the 60s). My mother, being incredibly shy about her sexuality, was immediately embarrassed, turned red as a lobster and searched to get dressed immediately.

 So shocked was she by this judgment that she never had another breast exam again, until it was too late.

Breast cancer awareness month by Queen of the Thrones

Judgments can damage our psyche, we don’t know how our words will fall on the ears receiving them. Judgments serve no purpose either, except pain. After all, no one asks the doctor to comment on how large they are, but rather how healthy they are.

Follow Queen of the Thrones advices to prevent Breast Cancer

My mother’s breast cancer

Forty years later, my mother waited until blood came out of her nipple and a mass so large it was hard to avoid, came cauli-flowering out of her breast. With two doctors as daughters, we couldn’t believe that she had let the shame of an event that happened so long ago, impact her life now.

 

The diagnosis – stage 4 breast cancer. Devastating, with little to no time to act.

Because of this experience, I got over my breast bullsh*t and got into owning one of the most beautiful, female, flourishing features of my health.

Importance of breast exams

For this reason alone, every single woman in my naturopathic practice would get a yearly breast exam, done by our skilled naturopath assessment hands.

But some of us don’t have access to a doctor who is experienced or willing to do a breast exam, especially since now the recommendation is to avoid breast exams.

 

In countries where breast cancer is diagnosed at advanced stages, it is valuable to have patients understand breast self-examination as well as to be examined1.

So this is extremely valuable. My mother was fortunate, even though she was at the extreme case, she survived with a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy as well as naturopathic medicine. Her cancer was so far advanced that it was an impossibility to only do the natural route.

Self-examination is invaluable

The comment  I used to get in my clinical practice time again is that most women don’t know what normal feels like. They feel that their breasts are lumpy and bumpy (a sign of estrogen dominance, or low iodine).

But let me tell you, the first time I did a breast exam I thought exactly the same thing! How was I going to identify anything going wrong if I can’t notice anything different?

Do you know what changed it? Practice, my friends, practice is the mother of all skills.

And what if you find lots of lumps and bumps? Make your way to your doctor and get checked out. It never hurts to be extra cautious.

There are many things you can do at home now to support cystic & lumpy breasts

Most of these strategies deal with reducing the amount of estrogen in your body:

1.Reduce your alcohol intake3

2. Reduce your theophylline intake, in coffee, tea and chocolate

3. Wear an eye compress to bed to naturally support melatonin which is a powerful anti-cancer hormone in the body4

4. Of course, do a Castor Oil Pack daily, because it may help with cleansing and detox5, microbiome balance6 7 8, inflammation9, and stress reduction10 11, which all impact your hormonal balance.

Support cystic & lumpy breasts with Castor Oil Packs by Queen of the Thrones

So get to know your boobies! I know I’ve got saggy breasts, and sometimes they really do look like sacks! But I love them because they are me 100% and I get to know them regularly so I can keep them a part of me for the long haul. They are my twins after all, and I can’t get another pair just like these (no judgment if you’ve had yours changed, just love!).

Do you know the difference between then and now? Now I love my breasts, I treat them better every single day because I have learned that they are an important part of who I am. They share my story.

I also want to share a quick recipe with Castor Oil for boob and lymphatic wellness. Castor Oil has a long history of use for breast cancer. In fact, Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine was advocating it as a treatment in 460 BCE, as was another medicine man of the time, Galen in 200 BCE12.

Would you love to learn how to support your breasts in a soulful, energetic way? Download this free step-by-step guide and learn how to refocus your energies for happier breasts and a more centered you:

How to use Castor Oil to support breast & lymphatic wellness.

https://queenofthethrones.com/wp-content/uploads/202How to Use Castor Oil to Support Breast and Lymphatic Wellness
  1. Mix organic Castor Oil from a GLASS bottle with baking soda until it becomes a paste.

  2. Add 2-3 drops of organic rosemary essential oil.

  3. Rub into your armpits and over your breasts.

  4. Leave on for an hour or more then rinse off.

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. rev Med. 2011 Sep;53(3):118-20. doi: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2011.05.001. Epub 2011 May 8. The role of clinical breast examination and breast self-examination. Miller AB1, Baines CJ.

2. Kendra J. Royston, B.S.1 and Trygve O. Tollefsbol, D.O. Ph.D. The Epigenetic Impact of Cruciferous Vegetables on Cancer Prevention. Curr Pharmacol Rep. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2016 Feb 1. Published in final edited form as: Curr Pharmacol Rep. 2015 Feb 1; 1(1): 46–51. Published online 2015 Jan 25. doi: 10.1007/s40495-014-0003-9

3. Terryl J. Hartman,1 Julia S. Sisti,2,3 Susan E. Hankinson,2,3,4 Xia Xu,5 A. Heather Eliassen,2,3 and Regina Ziegler6 Alcohol Consumption and Urinary Estrogens and Estrogen Metabolites in Premenopausal Women. Horm Cancer. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2017 Feb 1. Published in final edited form as: Horm Cancer. 2016 Feb; 7(1): 65–74. Published online 2016 Jan 4. doi: 10.1007/s12672-015-0249-7

4. Giuseppe Di Bella,1,* Fabrizio Mascia,1 Luciano Gualano,2 and Luigi Di Bella Melatonin Anticancer Effects: Review Int J Mol Sci. 2013 Feb; 14(2): 2410–2430. Published online 2013 Jan 24. doi: 10.3390/ijms14022410

5. Holm TBrøgger-Jensen MRJohnson LKessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in optisol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

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

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Lukong KE1. Understanding breast cancer – The long and winding road. BBA Clin. 2017 Jan 27;7:64-77. doi: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2017.01.001. eCollection 2017 Jun.

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.

Why Am I Constipated? It Isn’t Just About Food

Why Am I Constipated? It Isn’t Just About Food

Learn with Queen of the Thrones why are you Constipated

Why Am I Constipated? It Isn’t Just About Food

Written by: Marisol Teijeiro ND (inactive).
Medically reviewed by: Victoria Williams R.H.N.

Est. reading time: 6 minutes.

It isn’t a good time, sitting, waiting, wishing for something to manifest. In fact, it is totally painful. Yes, I’m talking about constipation. It affects millions around the world and is the most pressing health condition that exists today. Why then, are there not better ways to solve this ever-pressing problem? (pun intended)

Many people think that constipation simply has to do with food. Of course, food is a huge factor. Not eating enough fiber or drinking enough water can contribute to constipation. And if we eat foods that we are sensitive to, the body often responds with bloating and constipation. But there are a number of other factors that contribute to this agonizing issue which we will explore in this article.

How the body poops

The gut operates under a principle of pressure and lubrication. Without these, you cannot poo! This is why consuming a substantial amount of fiber helps you go to the bathroom. The fiber simply creates the pressure needed to push stools along your digestive tract and allows for the lower sphincter to relax so you can go poo. Fluids also help create pressure and have the double purpose of lubricating the digestive tract. Another key source of lubrication for the gut is the consumption of healthy fats.

The Psychology of Constipation

Without proper pressure and lubrication, there is a high chance of constipation. However, it is not this simple. Constipation is not only about food, it is mediated by a variety of other mechanisms

Pathology of constipation by Queen of the Thrones

Hormonal Constipation

Hormones are another influencer of constipation. Thyroid issues can cause the metabolism to move at an incredibly slow rate, processing food and nourishment very slowly, and expelling it in the same manner1.

Estrogen dominance, which is an epidemic these days, also causes constipation2. High progesterone is required to have healthy bowel movements. When there is no stress, progesterone levels are higher, allowing the lower sphincter to work properly.

Nervous System Constipation

Stress is the other highly notable factor in constipation3. If you’re stressed, not only are you low in progesterone, but also in the minerals that help with relaxation and laxation such as magnesium and vitamin C.

Lifestyle Constipation

Your lifestyle can also contribute to constipation4. Movement of the body is required for movement of the bowels! Makes total sense, right? In order for the smooth muscle of the bowel to contract properly, regular exercise and movement is required5.

Emotional Constipation

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the picture of constipation is correlated to being unable to let things go. You may have a tendency of holding onto things and not working through them. If you hoard, on either a physical or emotional level, you likely have issues with constipation. The body tends to freeze and slow down its activity to protect you. 

3 Simple Fixes to Support Constipation

Three tips to fix constipation by Queen of the Thrones

1. Analyzing Your Poo

If you learn how to read them, your poops can become your FREE daily oracle for the state of your health. They can help you decipher which factors are contributing to your constipation, and from there you can take the necessary steps to improve it.

Did you know that there are more than 50 Shades of Poo? Not really, but it sounds pretty cool, just like the movie 50 Shades of Grey. There are many colors, however, and it’s important to know which ones are normal and which ones could be a medical emergency.

Download our other free infographic, the 50 Shades of Poo, so you can find out what you should be looking for in the bowl. I promise you will be blown away by this one simple measure of poo yet there are so many more!

Analyzing Your Poo helps to identify causes of constopation according to Queen of the Thrones

2. Castor Oil Packs

Castor Oil Packs are an amazing tool for constipation. In a study done in a home for the elderly, Castor Oil Packs were compared to conventional laxatives and found to be just as effective. The amazing thing is, there was no harsh urgency to run to the bathroom, as you get with laxatives.

Castor Oil Packs work on the physiological aspect of constipation, but they also indirectly help to balance hormones. Castor Oil Packs have a long history of use for supporting hormonal problems, including estrogen dominance and hypothyroidism. They may help with detoxification in the liver via glutathione7, which helps the liver to clear out excess hormones.

Castor Oil Packs work on the nervous system element of constipation by improving relaxation and balancing stress8,9. Another bonus of using Castor Oil Packs is that they may help with inflammation10,11, which can be yet another contributing factor in constipation12. Get started on your Castor Oil Pack practice today with the Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack for Liver Kit.

Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Packs are the best remedy for Constipation

3. The Three Legged Stool

Now we know that constipation is about so much more than just food, but since the bowel runs on the principle of pressure and lubrication, it is still an important factor to support. We call this formula the ‘Three Legged Stool for Bowel Movement Success’.

  • Fiber (pressure) – We are drastically deficient in the amount of fiber we are eating. The recommended dosage is 30 grams of fiber per day. On average, North Americans consume only 4-5 grams per day. Great sources of fiber are vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds. Chia seeds are also excellent because they are high in calcium as well as fiber
    • Fluid (pressure and lubrication) – Our bodies are 80% water. Water is the universal solvent, so it moves and cleanses. Ideally, you want to consume 30ml/kg (or 2.2 lbs) of body weight each day, and more if you are exercising.

    • Fat (lubrication) – Fat is like lubricant to your colon. Avocado (fiber and fat), olive oil or coconut oil are all amazing lubricating fats.

    So, bottom line, pooping is dependent on so much more than just the foods you are eating. Digestion and elimination function is mediated by hormonal and nervous systems in the body, as well as your lifestyle and emotions.

    Would you love a quick and easy recipe to help support colon cleansing and bowel movements? It incorporates what we like to call “ The Three Legged Stool” of…

    1. Fiber (pressure)- Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber that help to bind and move toxins out of the body, plus they’re rich in calcium.

    2. Fluid (pressure and lubrication)- The water in this recipe adds some fluid while softening the coconut oil so it can settle into your baking sheet.

    3. Fat (lubrication)- Coconut oil is a great source of healthy fats that act like a lubricant to your colon.

     

    Paleo Peppermint Bark Recipe

    Paleo peppermint bark ingredients by Queen of the Thrones

    Ingredients:

    • 1 tbsp of chia seeds 
    • 2 tbsp of softened coconut oil
    • 1 tbsp hot water
    • 2 drops of peppermint oil 
    • Optional: Stevia for enhanced sweetness 

    Directions:

    1. Mix or blend all ingredients together and pour into a baking sheet. You may add stevia for enhanced sweetness.
    2. Freeze overnight.
    3. Once frozen, break apart into pieces to enjoy and keep the rest in the freezer.

    Get ready to embark on a journey of deliciousness and well-being with “The Paleo Peppermint Bark”! It’s a recipe that not only supports your colon health but also brings joy and excitement to your taste buds. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into a world of flavor and rejuvenation!

    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. Anant D. Patil Link between hypothyroidism and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2014 May-Jun; 18(3): 307–309. doi: 10.4103/2230-8210.131155 PMCID: PMC4056127PMID: 24944923

    2. Ji-Eun OhYong-Woon KimSo-Young Park, and Jong-Yeon Kim Estrogen Rather Than Progesterone Cause Constipation in Both Female and Male Mice. Korean J Physiol Pharmacol. 2013 Oct; 17(5): 423–426. Published online 2013 Oct 17. doi: 10.4196/kjpp.2013.17.5.423 PMID: 24227943

    3. Yu-Ming ChangMohamad El-Zaatari, and John Y Kao Does stress induce bowel dysfunction? Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2014 Dec 1. Published in final edited form as: Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014 Aug; 8(6): 583–585. Published online 2014 May 31. doi: 10.1586/17474124.2014.911659 PMID: 24881644

    4. Rong HuangSai-Yin Ho, * Wing-Sze Lo, and Tai-Hing Lam Physical Activity and Constipation in Hong Kong Adolescents. PLoS One. 2014; 9(2): e90193. Published online 2014 Feb 28. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090193 PMID: 24587274

    5. Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School Constipation and Impaction. Published: March, 2016 https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/constipation-and-impaction-a-to-z

    6. Arslan GG, Eşer I. An examination of the effect of Castor Oil Packs on constipation in the elderly. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011 Feb;17(1):58-62. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.04.004. Epub 2010 May 18.

    7. Holm TBrøgger-Jensen MRJohnson LKessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in optisol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013.

    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.

    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. ( Dopamine release, Limbic System of brain- Fatty Meal Satisfaction)

    10 Grady H. Immunomodulation through castor oil packs. The Journal of Naturopathic Medicine. Volume 7 Jan 1 1998; 7(1): 84-9

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

    12 Marjan Mokhtare, 1 Rahele Alimoradzadeh, 2 Shahram Agah, 3 ,* Hossein Mirmiranpour, 4 andNiloofar Khodabandehloo The Association between Modulating Inflammatory Cytokines and Constipation of Geriatrics in Iran. Middle East J Dig Dis. 2017 Oct; 9(4): 228–234. doi: 10.15171/mejdd.2017.78 PMID: 29255581

    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.

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    What Is A Castor Oil Pack & Why Do It?

    What Is A Castor Oil Pack & Why Do It?

    What Is A Castor Oil Pack and Why Do It?

    What Is A Castor Oil Pack & Why Do It?

    Written by: Victoria Williams R.H.N. Victoria Williams Director of Operations at Queen of the Thrones Victoria Williams R.H.N.
    Victoria is Head of Operations at Queen of the Thrones®. Victoria obtained a Pre-Health Science Certificate with Honours from Georgian College, which ignited her passion for natural wellness and nutrition.
    Full bio

    Medically reviewed by: Melanie Swackhammer B.A.

    Est. reading time: 7 minutes.

    Your Complete Guide On How To Do A Castor Oil Pack

    Are you wondering what to expect after using the Castor Oil Pack for Liver?

    Or, are you curious to know more about the Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack before you add it to your daily self-care routine?

    Is this you? This blog discusses everything you need to know about Castor Oil and Castor Oil Packs and how the two work together to support both your liver and overall wellness.

    So, what is a Castor Oil Pack?

    Castor Oil Packs are an ancient self-care practice and foundation of naturopathic and functional medicine popularized in the early 1900s by Edgar Cayce.

    This traditional natural wellness practice involves applying Castor Oil to a cotton compress and wearing it on the body (typically over the liver) to support liver detox, deeper sleep, less stress, better bowel movements, and more.

    The Castor Oil Pack lost its appeal because of its messy and time-consuming nature and difficulty accessing quality organic materials. Makes sense, agreed?”

    So, we made this practice easy for the 21st century with the Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack for Liver, a tried and true modernized Castor Oil Pack that’s heatless, less-mess, and easy to use.

    Would you love to know 3 vital body functions you can support with Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs?

    Well, we have an Infographic for you that explains the 3 key benefits of Castor Oil Packs, loved and recommended by wellness practitioners.

    With consistent use, Castor Oil Packs can support your body from the outside in. So much so that many people who love and use Castor Oil Packs think of it as a game changer.

    Queen of the Thrones happy customer testimony

    Where to wear your Castor Oil Pack?

    Castor Oil Packs can be worn all over the body from your thyroid, your tummy, your pelvic area, your joints, and even your eyes – but they are thought to have the most systemic benefit when worn over the liver area. This is because the liver area is where the regulatory systems of your body all intersect and interconnect (your hormonal, immune, nervous and digestive systems). Many people assume that you need to wear your Liver Pack right on your liver to get the benefits. Is this you too? However, this is not the case. Anatomically, the liver is located near the top of your right ribcage under the right breast. It would be a little difficult to wear your pack there, agreed? 
    Liver location in the body by Queen of the Thrones

    The ideal placement for your Castor Oil Pack is your liver area, over top of the dermatomes connected to your liver.

    You see, the anti-inflammatory component of Castor Oil called ricinoleic acid1 permeates the epidermis because of its molecular weight, this is where your circulatory and lymphatic vessels lie. And when placed over your liver area, these Packs activate the somatic and visceral reflexes (response to a stimulus) supporting the activity of internal detox and cleansing organs like the liver, kidney, gut, gallbladder, and more.

    So, this is why it’s ideal to wear the Pack over your liver area, below your ribs on the right side of your body. This covers your T5-T12 dermatomes which support the gallbladder, liver, diaphragm, stomach, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, small intestine, appendix, adrenals, uterus and colon.  

    How to use your Castor Oil Liver Pack?

    It’s as easy as following the two-step process so you can support your body from the outside in.

    Step One: Apply 1 tbsp of Organic Castor Oil to the soft organic cotton flannel side of your Pack. 

    *Always add your Organic Castor Oil to the middle of the pack to help keep the oil from the seams, as the Pack is not 100% impermeable.

    Dermatomes of the Body Supported by The Castor Oil Pack for Liver

    Step Two: Place the soft cotton flannel side of your Castor Oil Pack over your liver area (under your right rib cage) and tie it in place with the soft, stretchy, adjustable straps.

    *Remember: Castor Oil WILL STAIN clothing & bed sheets so take extra care when preparing your Pack. Of course, you can always wear an old t-shirt over your Pack just in case.

    With regular practice, you will train your body to respond better to stress. Amazing, agreed? 

    And the best part…

    You can wear your Pack for one hour before bed, and even better, wear your Pack overnight to help you cleanse while you sleep.

    You see, your body naturally cleanses when you’re sleeping. So, by wearing your Castor Oil Liver Pack overnight you’re supporting natural liver detoxification, lymphatic drainage2, and colon cleansing3,14

    Learn how to use Castor oil Packs for liver designed by Queen of the Thrones

    How do Castor Oil Packs support your liver?

    Castor Oil is a unique vegetable oil derived from the castor bean. It contains 90% ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid structure strikingly similar to that of prostaglandin E1. In simple terms, it is a strong anti-inflammatory4 agent in our body. Here’s how it works… Mechanical: The compression of your Castor Oil Pack placed over the liver (slightly covering the lower free ribs under your right rib cage), combined with the movement of your breathing muscles, serves like a pump to your lymphatic system, encouraging lymphatic drainage2. Amazing, agreed? Neurological: When placed on specific dermatomes, this activates the somatic visceral reflexes triggering the activity of internal detox and cleansing organs like the liver, kidney, gut, gallbladder, and more. A combination of both mechanical and neurological: The Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack stimulates the body’s skin receptors that stimulate the natural oxytocin5 feedback loop activating the vagus nerve, shifting the body into the ‘rest and digest’ state where liver detox is optimized. This gentle compression of the Castor Oil Pack stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system6,7,8. Amazing, right?
    Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil OAcks supports detox and digestion

     You can learn more about the 3 vital body functions you can support with Castor Oil Packs in your FREE infographic.

    What are the key benefits of Castor Oil Liver Packs?

    First, let’s look at the most important function of your Castor Oil Pack, which is to help…

    1. Balance inflammation

    Did you know that inflammation is part of your body’s process of fighting against things that harm it (like infections) in an attempt to heal and protect itself?

    So, when something damages your cells, your body releases chemicals that trigger an inflammatory response from your immune system10. It’s a natural process, but inflammation is often out of control in today’s modern world.

    When you are inflamed, your body is acidic. However, the enzymes in your body don’t function properly in an acidic environment, as they require an alkaline environment11

    Inflammation is like fire, and what does a firefighter do to put out a fire? They put water on it. Central abdominal bloating and weight gain are often caused because our body sends water to the site of inflammation to ‘put out the fire’. Makes sense, agreed?

    So, since Castor Oil contains ricinoleic acid, a natural anti-inflammatory1-4, it may support the natural reduction of water retention and swelling.

    Castor Oil also supports detox by helping to…

    2. Preserve glutathione status

    Glu…tat…what?

    Well, glutathione is the master detoxification agent of the body12. But, unfortunately, it can quickly be depleted mainly because of chronic diseases, including autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. 

    Studies on rats have shown that Castor Oil is supportive of preserving glutathione levels13.  You see, glutathione is an antioxidant that pulls toxins out of your body, and that’s why we get depleted so quickly. 

    Castor Oil also supports the elimination of waste from your body by…

    3. Help move your bowels

    lOne of the major processes of your body is your bowel movements. If you can’t eliminate (a.k.a go to the bathroom), you self-intoxicate.

    Remember those anti-inflammatory prostaglandins that Castor Oil mimics? Well, these are the same ones that attach to the receptors of smooth muscle14 in the body, namely your gut and uterus.

    So, this physical smooth muscle function moves things out of the body, and your Castor Oil Liver Pack helps stimulate it3,14 so you can go to the bathroom naturally and rid yourself of feeling backed up. Sounds wonderful, agreed?

    Lastly, Castor Oil aids in maintaining your general wellness by helping your body…

    4. Microbiome balance

    The microbiome and bacteria in your gut are a mix of good and bad bugs. The balance of the two influences your well-being. So, when the balance is off, you feel unwell. Makes sense, right? Biofilm is a big bad barrier that bad bacteria can produce in the microbiome. It keeps the bad bugs in and the good bugs out. Unfortunately, this causes severe stress on the body, inhibiting cleansing and detoxification. Castor Oil is one of the only natural substances that can breakdown biofilm15,16,17, allowing your body to maintain a balanced ecology (environment). 
    Smart Bowel movements with Queen of the Thrones Castor Oil Packs

    In combination with a good diet, adequate fluid intake (water/tea), flow (urine, poop) mindset, and exercise, Castor Oil Packs are one of the cornerstones to supporting your bowels.

    All in all, starting with your tried and true Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Pack for Liver, you will be able to support… 

    • Gentle liver detox
    • Colon cleansing3,14
    • Lymphatic drainage2

    However, not all Castor Oil Packs are made equal.

    Your checklist for good quality Castor Oil (like Queen of the Thrones®): 

    • 100% pure
    • Organic
    • Extra virgin
    • Hexane-free
    • Bottled in amber glass

    Your checklist for a good quality Castor Oil Pack (like Queen of the Thrones®)

    • Organic cotton, wool, or linen touching the skin
    • No synthetic blends or chemically treated materials touching the skin (i.e., velour, bamboo)
    • No uncomfortable belts, buttons, or velcro

    Try it for yourself to see!

    You can also learn more about the best practices for your Castor Oil Pack with your FREE infographic. Would you love that?

    Common questions

    1. Why do I have to replace it after two months of regular use?

    The traditional way of doing Castor Oil Packs was to use the SAME compress over and over and over. This was okay, before the industrial revolution when our environment wasn’t as toxic.

    We now know that the increasing environmental toxicity impacts wellness. This is why it’s important to add fresh oil every time and replace your pack every 2 months for ease of use, comfort, and sanitation.
     

    2. Why can’t I just drink Castor Oil or rub it on my skin?

    Castor Oil orally is a stimulant laxative that causes cramping and makes you poop. Simply rubbing it on your skin and wearing a T-shirt overtop only gives you about 50% of the benefits. You need the pack to help move your body into a relaxed state via gentle compression to support liver detox, lymphatic drainage, and colon cleansing.

     

    3. Why can’t I use organic bamboo or any old cloth?

    ONLY use organic cotton, wool or linen! Other materials like ‘organic’ bamboo are highly processed with chemicals. Old clothing may be made with harmful dyes, bleach, and flame retardants that you don’t want to absorb into your body.

    4. What if I’m on medications, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, IUDs, or supplements?

    Castor Oil Packs are safely combined with any medication and supplement and may even help them work better. There are no known contraindications or interactions with medication, and they are safe to use with hormone replacements, TTC medicines, birth control pills, and IUDs.

    5. Isn’t it messy?

    That’s why we created this LESS-mess pack. It’s not entirely messless, but LESS messy than a DIY pack. Castor Oil does stain, so always wear an old T-shirt.

    6. Don’t I have to add heat?

    Extra heat isn’t necessary because it’s engineered to hold in your body heat naturally.

    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. 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”
    2. Moore JE Jr, Bertram CD. Lymphatic System Flows. Annu Rev Fluid Mech. 2018 Jan;50:459-482. doi: 10.1146/annurev-fluid-122316-045259. PMID: 29713107; PMCID: PMC5922450.
    3. Arslan GG, Eşer I. An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011 Feb;17(1):58-62. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.04.004. Epub 2010 May 18. PMID: 21168117
    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. 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.
    6. 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    10. Chen L, Deng H, Cui H, Fang J, Zuo Z, Deng J, Li Y, Wang X, Zhao L. Inflammatory responses and inflammation-associated diseases in organs. Oncotarget. 2017 Dec 14;9(6):7204-7218. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.23208. PMID: 29467962; PMCID: PMC5805548.
    11. Hopkins E, Sanvictores T, Sharma S. Physiology, Acid Base Balance. [Updated 2022 Sep 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-.
    12. Silvagno F, Vernone A, Pescarmona GP. The Role of Glutathione in Protecting against the Severe Inflammatory Response Triggered by COVID-19. Antioxidants (Basel). 2020 Jul 16;9(7):624. doi: 10.3390/antiox9070624. PMID: 32708578; PMCID: PMC7402141.
    13. Holm T, Brøgger-Jensen MR, Johnson L, Kessel L.Glutathione preservation during storage of rat lenses in optisol-GS and castor oil. PLoS One. 2013 Nov 19;8(11):e79620. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079620. eCollection 2013. PMID: 24260265
    14. Sorin Tunaru,a Till F. Althoff,a Rolf M. Nüsing,b Martin Diener,c and Stefan Offermannsa,d,1 Castor oil induces laxation and uterus contraction via ricinoleic acid activating prostaglandin EP3 receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jun 5; 109(23): 9179–9184. Published online 2012 May 21. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1201627109 PMID: 22615395
    15. 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.
    16. 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.
    17. 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.

     

      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.

      How to know if you’re sensitive to gluten or dairy?

      How to know if you’re sensitive to gluten or dairy?

      Gluten and dairy sensibilities by Queen of the Thrones

      How to know if you’re sensitive to gluten or dairy?

      Written by: Victoria Williams R.H.N. Victoria Williams Director of Operations at Queen of the Thrones Victoria Williams R.H.N.
      Victoria is Head of Operations at Queen of the Thrones®. Victoria obtained a Pre-Health Science Certificate with Honours from Georgian College, which ignited her passion for natural wellness and nutrition.
      Full bio

      Medically reviewed by: Melanie Swackhammer B.A. 

      Est. reading time: 7 minutes.

      The clue to having gut glue

      Having frequent digestive problems means not knowing when it will strike. During an important work presentation, a first date, or at the movies. Can you relate?

      You’re at the mercy of loose stools, constipation, painful gas or bloating. And these symptoms might especially come after specific food items, unfortunately, many of which are your favorite, including pizza, fettuccine alfredo, or grilled cheese. This may make you wonder if gluten and dairy are the cause of your stomach problems?

      Well, it might not be that one or the other is causing problems. It’s more so the combination of gluten with dairy.

      You see, studies have shown that poor food combining can produce fermentation, indigestion, putrefaction, gas and bloating! 1

      Like consuming dairy with wheat, this combination could create, what I like to call, “gut glue”! Yes, you read that right… gut GLUE!

      Frequent consumption of these food combinations may result in exhausting and frustrating problems.

      The good news: knowing what to have or avoid can allow you to feel fresh and be healthy even after consuming your favorite food items.

      While you’re here, would you love to know how you can use Castor Oil Packs to support your gut health, and ease digestive problems?

      Before we talk about gut glue, I would love to discuss a bit about gluten and dairy on their own.

      What is Gluten?

      Gluten is a protein commonly found in barley, wheat, and rye.

      If you have tried gluten-free cookies, you know they are typically drier and crumble easily.

      This is because gluten protein provides the elasticity associated with pasta and baked products.

      And these gluten-free products are becoming increasingly popular, as the media has made many believe that this protein is bad for your health. Sound familiar?

      But before getting on the gluten-free bandwagon, let’s understand whether it’s really all bad.

      Gluten isn’t all bad

      Frankly, what thoughts come to your mind when you think about gluten?

      For most, it is sticky bowels or bloating, agreed?

      However, it’s essential to understand that humans have been consuming gluten as long as the discovery of bread. It’s a great source of soluble fiber, protein, and other nutrients.

       

       

      Let’s get scienc-y for a minute.

      Your digestive system produces the enzyme protease, which breaks down proteins. But this enzyme can’t entirely break down gluten, and undigested gluten moves through your bowels.

      Most people can manage undigested gluten.

      So, the nutrients from gluten are beneficial for those who can tolerate it.

      Studies have linked consumption of whole grains to lower risk of stroke, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. The participants of the study daily consumed two to three servings of grains daily, including wheat.2

      Moreover, gluten also acts as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of “good” bacteria in your body. It can also help imbalance of bad and good bacteria associated with gut dysbiosis.

      What about dairy?

      Eating dairy products is the easiest way to get vitamin D, calcium, and proteins needed for the healthy heart, bones, and muscles.

      It helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of fractures.

      Studies have even suggested that the right kind of dairy may prevent heart disease.3

      So, why is there so much discussion about dairy-free foods?

      Well, similar to gluten, your digestive system releases the enzyme lactase to digest sugar in dairy products called lactose.

      If you have a problem producing lactase, you probably have symptoms of lactose intolerance, including stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. Makes sense, agreed?

      Moreover, evidence suggests that dairy products may improve body composition by reducing waist circumference and fat composition.4

      A review of 25 studies also found that various types of yogurt were linked to the lower risk of metabolic syndrome risk factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.5

      With this in mind, let’s understand more about gut glue.

      What about dairy?

      My best and favorite example of this is how glue is made.

      White school glue, if you didn’t know, is actually edible. You can essentially make it at home with milk, flour, and baking soda, and then the ingredient that is the pièce de résistance is vinegar.

      This combination is basically what happens in your belly, when you combine bread (flour) with cheese (dairy/milk) and you swallow it down into your stomach that contains your stomach acid (like vinegar, because it’s acidic!) and bicarbonate (like baking soda).6

      Guess what, you’ve got glue in your belly!

      So imagine what your gut is like, if you are consuming glue.

      Let’s talk anatomy for a second. Ready?

      Your small intestine is lined by finger-like projections called villi, that help you absorb nutrients from your food.

      Gut glue could cause these projections to get stuck together and reduce your ability to properly digest your food!

      In addition, because the carbohydrates and protein don’t digest well together, you get this glue moving all along your digestive tract.

      All in all, it’s rarely only one thing that is causing discomfort. It is often multifactorial and there are many contributing factors and culprits.

       

      This is simply an example where combining gluten and dairy together may not be ideal for digestion (they also happen to be some of the most common food sensitivities and allergies that people deal with).

      This is not it.

      According to the traditional Ayurveda medicine, excessive amounts of proteins, carbohydrates and fats should not be taken together as this leads to a feeling of heaviness in the stomach.7

      Plus, milk is considered as a complete food.

      It contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, proteins, good fats, amino acids, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, lactose, and all nutrients necessary for a healthy body.

      That is why in Ayurveda it has been advised not to take wheat products with milk.

      What can you do about your digestion problems?

      When we choose nourishing food combinations, time our meals accordingly, and create healthy habits like proper chewing, we reduce the chances of these uncomfortable, and sometimes painful symptoms.

      Plus, adding the practice of Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs after your meal may further help with inflammation regulation and help to improve liver detoxification, lymphatic drainage and colon cleansing, which means less digestive problems. Amazing, right?

      Would you love to know how Castor Oil Packs work and how they can support your gut health?

      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. Cömert ED, Gökmen V. Effect of food combinations and their co-digestion on total antioxidant capacity under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Curr Res Food Sci. 2022 Feb 17;5:414-422. doi: 10.1016/j.crfs.2022.02.008. PMID: 35243354; PMCID: PMC8866489.

      2. Ye EQ, Chacko SA, Chou EL, Kugizaki M, Liu S. Greater whole-grain intake is associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and weight gain. J Nutr. 2012 Jul;142(7):1304-13. doi: 10.3945/jn.111.155325. Epub 2012 May 30. Erratum in: J Nutr. 2013 Sep;143(9):1524. PMID: 22649266; PMCID: PMC6498460.

      3. Lordan R, Tsoupras A, Mitra B, Zabetakis I. Dairy Fats and Cardiovascular Disease: Do We Really Need to be Concerned? Foods. 2018 Mar 1;7(3):29. doi: 10.3390/foods7030029. PMID: 29494487; PMCID: PMC5867544.

      4. Abargouei AS, Janghorbani M, Salehi-Marzijarani M, Esmaillzadeh A. Effect of dairy consumption on weight and body composition in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Int J Obes (Lond). 2012 Dec;36(12):1485-93. doi: 10.1038/ijo.2011.269. Epub 2012 Jan 17. PMID: 22249225.

      5. Khorraminezhad L, Rudkowska I. Effect of Yogurt Consumption on Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors: a Narrative Review. Curr Nutr Rep. 2021 Mar;10(1):83-92. doi: 10.1007/s13668-020-00344-y. Epub 2021 Jan 6. PMID: 33405074.

      6. G. Lynn Carlson. A New approach to the baking soda-vinegar reaction. J. Chem. Educ., 1990, 67 (7), p 597 DOI: 10.1021/ed067p597. Publication Date: July 1990

      7. Sabnis M. Viruddha Ahara: A critical view. Ayu. 2012 Jul;33(3):332-6. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.108817. PMID: 23723637; PMCID: PMC3665091.