Seed cycling is the process of ingesting different seeds throughout your cycle. Your cycle begins on the first day of your period and ends the day before the next. This form of naturopathic medicine is based on the principle that achieving hormonal balance may reduce and even eliminate any unpleasant premenstrual symptoms; the seeds provide different hormones that the female body requires at different times of the month.
The hormones estrogen and progesterone play a big role in one’s cycle and different amounts of each are needed at different times. During the first half of the month, estrogen is needed to build the uterine lining and in the second half, progesterone is needed to thicken the lining and prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy. The seeds consumed at different times supply the proper hormones needed and fixes any imbalances, resulting in a reduction of PMS-related symptoms.
To properly reap the benefits of seed cycling, consume one tablespoon of flaxseeds and one tablespoon of pumpkin seeds daily during the first half of your cycle. Two weeks after the start of your period, consume one tablespoon and sunflower seeds and one tablespoon of ground sesame seeds every day. Repeat the process all over again on the first day of your next period and continue to do so as long as you would like.
My personal experience with seed cycling has been incredible. After diligently eating seeds daily, I saw a reduction in my hormonal acne and my menstrual cramps were much more manageable. However, as with adopting a new skincare routine or exercise regime, changes are not going to happen overnight. If you decide that seed cycling is something you’d like to try out, expect to see results after a couple of months in.
Keep in mind that seed cycling is a holistic process and that I am not qualified whatsoever to give medical advice. While some studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of seed cycling, it is not proven to be 100% effective. As with any other dietary supplements and changes, consult with your doctor before trying if you suffer from endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, severe PMS, or other medical conditions.
While seed cycling may not work for everybody, I believe that it is worth trying out if you are looking to relieve any period-related symptoms. If all of this sounds intriguing to you, head to the bulk section at your local grocery store and pick up some seeds!