Irregular period cycle? Acne breakouts? Mood swings? Try seed cycling to restore hormonal balance

Increasingly, more and more women are adopting seed cycling to restore hormonal imbalance (Picture Credit: Unsplash)

In recent years, wellness trends have taken a turn toward natural, food-based healing. Among these, seed cycling has quietly gained momentum as more women seek gentle, sustainable ways to balance their hormones and improve overall well-being.

It’s not meant to replace medical care, but rather to nourish the body in a way that supports long-term healing. The beauty of seed cycling lies in its simplicity -- there are no pills, no drastic diets, just everyday seeds that you can sprinkle into smoothies, yogurt, or salads.

What Is Seed Cycling?
At its core, seed cycling is a simple and natural way to bring the body back into balance using real food. It works by eating specific types of seeds during each half of the menstrual cycle to support hormonal harmony. Keerthi Aashish, Founder of Samāh, explains, “In the first half, the body prepares for ovulation and benefits from flax and pumpkin seeds which support estrogen levels and help follicle growth. In the second half, sunflower and sesame seeds support progesterone and reduce PMS. I started seed cycling after my daughter was born, when my hormones felt completely out of sync. Within a few weeks, I felt calmer, clearer and more grounded. That experience showed me that something as basic as seeds could truly help the body heal when used the right way.”

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Managing hormonal imbalance naturally
Seed cycling is increasingly being embraced by women seeking relief from issues like irregular cycles, PMS, skin breakouts, or mood swings. The concept is to nurture the body with consistent, nutrient-dense foods that help it restore equilibrium over time. Keerthi adds, “Seed cycling helps ease many of the symptoms that come with hormonal imbalance. Women often notice improvements in PMS, skin, mood, sleep and energy once they begin. We have seen so many women share how much better they feel within a few cycles.”

It can also help bring regularity to the menstrual cycle and support fertility by providing the body with key nutrients like zinc, vitamin E, selenium and magnesium. According to Keerthi, “Science supports the nutrients behind the practice even though large-scale studies on seed cycling itself are still growing. For example, flaxseed lignans help modulate estrogen, pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc that supports ovulation, and sunflower and sesame seeds contain vitamin E that helps progesterone function.”

This practice aligns with the natural hormonal rhythms of the menstrual cycle. The first half, known as the follicular phase, is when estrogen levels rise; flax and pumpkin seeds provide essential fatty acids and minerals to aid that process. The second half, or luteal phase, benefits from the nutrients in sesame and sunflower seeds, which promote progesterone and ease common PMS symptoms.

Consistency is key:
Like most natural health rituals, the benefits of seed cycling lie in consistency. It’s not a quick fix, but a steady, mindful routine that supports the body’s natural rhythm. Keerthi notes, “Seed cycling is safe for most people because it uses whole, natural foods. Those with seed allergies or sensitive digestion should start small and listen to their bodies. The blends are high in fiber, so it helps to begin with smaller portions before increasing to the full serving. For people with thyroid issues, PCOS, endometriosis or postpartum imbalance, seed cycling can work beautifully alongside medical guidance.”

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FAQs on seed cycling:

What is seed cycling?
Seed cycling is a natural practice that uses specific seeds to support hormonal balance throughout the menstrual cycle.

Which seeds are used?
Typically, flax and pumpkin seeds are eaten during the follicular phase, and sesame and sunflower seeds during the luteal phase.

How does seed cycling help?
The seeds provide nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and lignans that may support estrogen and progesterone balance.

How long before I see results?
Many people notice changes in 2–3 cycles, though consistency is key.

Can anyone do seed cycling?
Yes, most people can, but those with seed allergies or hormonal conditions should consult a healthcare provider first.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.