January 12, 2023 by Margie Navarro

Customizing by Moon Cycle

Fine-tuning Cycle Harmonization

The moon cycle can affect a complex dance of hormones inside the human body that unfolds in roughly a month-long pattern with two phases: waxing and waning. You might notice that certain patterns present in your own body on this rythym for example some symptoms or sensations that recur on the follicular (pre-ovulation) or the luteal (post-ovulation) phase. An effective approach to balance these phases involves timely utilization of specific herbs. Herbs can offer a helping hand in this hormonal journey both on the shorter monthly scale and over the course of more longer-term shifts.

Beyond reproductive hormones, these molecules also control digestion, immunity and almost every essential function in the body. The hormone cortisol mediates the stress response. Adaptogenic substances, herbs or mushrooms that support the body’s adaptation to stress can be an important part of overall harmonization strategies.

The endocrine glands that control secretion of hormones influence each other, creating what is called a hormone cascade, or a relationship between hormone health in disparate systems of the body. Because of this phenomenon, an imbalance of one hormone, over time, can lead to imbalances in other hormones, even those secreted by comoletely different glands. This cascade is also the reason why herbal formulas designed to have an effect on hormone balance might take a minimum of three months to have their intended effect.

There’s a lot to gain from syncing alternating infusions with the moon cycle, or having one formula designed for the waxing phase and one for the waning phase. Every body and hormonal makeup is unique, so give your body a few months to adjust and observe any changes. Tuning into your body’s rhythms and responses can open up a path to optimum health and well-being, with herbs and medicinal mushrooms as companions on this journey. Let’s start harnessing their healing power in rhythm with your cycle – it’s about finding what works best for you and enhancing your wellbeing, one cycle at a time.

– Margie Navarro, herbalist & acupuncturist