Week 1
First day of period to Day 7
Today's hormone-cast: Estrogen may be rising this week, but it's still
on the low side, which makes you more susceptible to colds, flu and other
viruses. If you're bothered by a nagging cough, sip cocoa.
It contains
theobromine (an ingredient in dark chocolate) that stops nagging coughs 33%
better than codeine—and without drowsy side effects, according to a study out of
Imperial College London in the U.K.. Theobromine blocks signals from the
vagus nerve that tell
your brain to cough, the researchers say.
Week 2
Day 8 to Day 13
Today's hormone-cast:
Your peaking testosterone is a little devilish this week,
egging you on to do things you normally would shy away from in other weeks of
your cycle. If testosterone has lured you into eating something odd or
overindulging in something delicious, making your tummy churn, there's an easy
remedy: candy canes! The peppermint they contain quiets a bellyache and nausea
by relaxing spasming stomach muscles.
Week 3
Day 14 (or ovulation) to Day 22
Today's hormone-cast:
If (more like when) rising progesterone saps your energy, sniff a sprig of
rosemary.
In addition to enjoying the herb’s minty pine
aroma, you’ll be breathing in ursolic acid,
a compound that blocks the body’s natural breakdown of acetylcholine, a
neurotransmitter your brain needs to stay alert, according to a study at
England’s Northumbria University. Result: You’ll feel more awake and be able to
focus more easily!
Week 4
Day 23 to the end of cycle
Today's hormone-cast:
Bumming mood from plunging estrogen? Burn frankincense!
This ancient
incense—made from resin of the Boswellia plant and burned for centuries in
churches—releases incensole acetate, a compound that activates areas of the
brain known to alleviate depression and anxiety, according to a team of
biologists from Johns Hopkins University and the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
In fact, it works the same way some antidepressants do—but without the groggy
side effects. “Plus, it takes effect in seconds and last for hours, even days,”
says Raphael d’Angelo, M.D., president of the Alliance of International
Aromatherapists.
Gabrielle Lichterman is the founder of Hormonology, the Hormone Horoscope, which
shows you how to use your monthly hormone cycle to accurately predict your day
and plan your life.
myhormonology.com
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