Seed Cycling for Hormones - A Natural Way to Support Your Cycle

If you're navigating PMS, irregular periods, or hormone-related skin issues, seed cycling might be the gentle, food-based support your hormones need. Rooted in naturopathic nutrition, this method uses specific seeds during different phases of your cycle to nourish estrogen and progesterone production.

Let’s break down how seed cycling works and how to implement it in a realistic, hormone-friendly way.

🌒 What Is Seed Cycling?

Seed cycling is the practice of eating specific seeds during the two main phases of your menstrual cycle:

Follicular Phase (Day 1–14): Supports estrogen production
Luteal Phase (Day 15–28): Supports progesterone production

By rotating seeds aligned with hormonal shifts, you may help regulate your cycle, reduce PMS, and improve overall hormonal health.

🔁 If your cycle isn’t regular, use the moon cycle as a guide:
🌑 New Moon = Day 1 (Follicular), 🌕 Full Moon = Day 15 (Luteal)

🥄 The Seeds & When to Use Them

🌱 Follicular Phase (Day 1–14) – Estrogen Support

Eat:

Flax seeds – rich in lignans, help modulate estrogen levels
Pumpkin seeds – high in zinc, support estrogen production and follicle health

✅ 1 tbsp each daily (ground for better absorption)

🌻 Luteal Phase (Day 15–28) – Progesterone Support

Eat:

Sunflower seeds – contain selenium for liver detox and hormone metabolism
Sesame seeds – rich in lignans and calcium, support progesterone balance

✅ 1 tbsp each daily (ground or whole)

🌿 Seed Cycling Benefits (According to Anecdotal & Early Evidence)

While large-scale clinical research is limited, many women report benefits like:

Fewer PMS symptoms (bloating, mood swings, cramps)
More regular periods
Improved skin clarity
Better sleep during luteal phase
Fertility support

📝 Sample Seed Cycling Routine

Day 1–14 (Estrogen Phase):
Smoothie with flax + pumpkin seeds, or sprinkle over oats/salad

Day 15–28 (Progesterone Phase):
Tahini + sunflower seed butter snack, or mix into yogurt

🔄 Repeat each cycle. Consistency is key—give it 2–3 months to notice changes.

💡 Tips for Success

Use ground seeds: Flax especially needs to be ground for lignans to be bioavailable
Store seeds in fridge: Preserves nutrients and prevents rancidity
Choose organic when possible: Seeds are sensitive to pesticides
Pair with a balanced diet: Seed cycling works best as part of a hormone-supportive lifestyle

⚠️ Is Seed Cycling Right for You?

Seed cycling is safe for most women, including those with:

Irregular periods
PCOS
Coming off the pill
Perimenopause

However, it’s not a substitute for medical care. If you have hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., endometriosis), consult your provider before starting.

🔗 Related Topics:

Want personalised nutrition recommendations for seed cycling?
✨ Try the Moone App to sync your nutrition with your cycle.