If you’ve ever been doubled over with bloating, chances are you’ve gone down a rabbit hole of wellness hacks on social media. One trend that’s taken over recently is navel pulling—a ritual that promises to “pull” toxins from your belly and reduce bloating using castor oil. While it sounds like an easy, holistic solution to bloating, it might be too good to be true.
Let’s explore navel pulling, why you might want to avoid it, and why HUM Nutrition has the only solution you need for a happier digestive system.
What Is Navel Pulling, and Where Did It Come From?
“Navel oil pulling, traditionally called Nabhi chikitsa, is an Ayurvedic practice of gently pouring warmed oil into the navel,” explains Ayurvedic Practitioner Amy Landry. “Ideally, the oil is left for a few minutes (a perfect opportunity to take a moment to rest!) to penetrate more effectively. Then, the oil is gently massaged around the navel and the abdomen.”
“Castor oil is an accessible and commonly used oil for the technique that holds many advantages,” Landry says. “Notably, this practice—when performed with castor oil—is believed to nourish and hydrate the digestive system and improve overall digestive function. As a result, the body is more effectively able to remove waste and toxins (called “Ama” in Ayurveda).”
However, while castor oil is known traditionally for its laxative properties, it’s most effective when taken orally (not rubbed into the skin). The idea of absorbing oil through the belly button to relieve digestive issues, constipation, or bloating may sound a bit far-fetched, and the truth is, there’s no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of absorbing oil through the navel.
Why You Might Want to Ditch Navel Pulling for Bloating Relief
Let’s be real: bloating is extremely uncomfortable, and most will try just about anything to get rid of it. But when it comes to navel pulling, the benefits are more anecdotal than evidence-based. It might feel relaxing, but there’s no solid proof that it actually reduces bloating or improves digestion.
On the other hand, HUM’s Flatter Me is a supplement designed specifically to support digestion and reduce bloating, using ingredients that are backed by research. It contains a blend of 18 full-spectrum digestive enzymes along with ginger, fennel seed, and peppermint—all known to promote smoother digestion and reduce that uncomfortable, puffy feeling after meals.
Unlike navel pulling, Flatter Me is more than just a wellness gimmick—it’s scientifically designed to help your body actually break down food more efficiently, preventing the gas, sluggishness, and distention that often come with a heavy meal or even certain healthy foods.
While trends like navel pulling may have roots in ancient healing traditions, they’re just that—trends. When it comes to modern-day bloating, what your body really needs is a supplement that works with your body’s natural digestive processes.
HUM’s Flatter Me takes the guesswork out of gut health and replaces it with creative, effective ingredients your body can use. So, instead of pulling castor oil out of your cabinet, reach for a Flatter Me capsule with your next meal. Your stomach—and your digestive health—will thank you.
