Seed cycling or seed rotation is a natural method used to stabilize the female hormonal balance. Consuming specific oilseeds according to a set schedule is intended to help women achieve a regular cycle, thereby reducing fatigue and PMS symptoms. Learn more about this natural hormone therapy here.
How can hormonal imbalance manifest?
Many women are familiar with this: during the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations or PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) occur. This is usually primarily due to an imbalance of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. This can result in numerous different symptoms:
- Mood swings, feeling down
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Headaches
- Hair loss
- Acne and increased skin blemishes
- Food cravings, especially for sweet, salty, and fatty foods
- Insomnia and difficulty falling asleep
- Severe period pain
How does seed cycling work?
The idea behind seed cycling is that the consumption of oilseeds, such as pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds, positively stimulates the metabolism. The valuable ingredients in these seeds are meant to regulate chemical messengers and stabilize the cycle. Seed cycling is based on the two main phases of the female cycle and is therefore divided into two phases.
Since the length of a woman's cycle can vary individually, we base this on the average length of 28 days. The first half starts with the onset of the period and is followed by the follicular phase. The second half begins with ovulation and continues with the luteal phase. The cycle ends with the onset of the next menstrual period.
Seed cycling: Day 1 to 14 of the cycle
The first phase of this natural hormone therapy coincides with the first ideal half of the cycle. During this time, one or more egg follicles mature in the ovary until the phase ends with ovulation. In this period, the uterus sheds its lining (during menstruation) and builds up the top layer again. This process requires a particularly high amount of estrogen. To support the body in this, one tablespoon of pumpkin seeds and flaxseeds can be consumed daily during this phase of seed rotation. Both contain plant hormones (phytoestrogens) in the form of lignans. These phytochemicals resemble the body's own estrogen and can stimulate its release.
Seed cycling: Day 15 to 28 of the cycle
The second phase of this gentle hormone therapy lasts until day 28 or until the onset of the next menstrual period. This second half of the female cycle is also known as the luteal phase. Now, the sex hormone progesterone plays the crucial role, as the organism requires an increased dose of it to prepare for a potential implantation of the egg in the uterine lining. To support the organism, one tablespoon of sesame seeds and sunflower seeds can now be consumed each day. The vital substances and phytochemicals contained within now stimulate the release of progesterone.
How should I take the seeds and kernels?
The oilseeds should be well-crushed in both phases, as this is the only way for the organism to properly absorb the valuable ingredients of the seeds and kernels instead of excreting them whole. A blender is best for this purpose. The crushed seeds can then be sprinkled over muesli, juices, oatmeal, or savory dishes. The seed mix also tastes delicious in smoothies. However, it is especially good if the seeds are simply consumed raw and chewed thoroughly. This guarantees the best nutrient absorption.
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For the balance of women
What is known about the effect?
It has long been known that the ingredients of certain foods can influence the hormonal balance. The nutritional trend of seed cycling is therefore nothing new in itself. Even though there is no scientific proof yet for the definitive effectiveness of the method, various studies indicate that, for example, the daily intake of flaxseeds can have positive effects on the ratio of the hormones progesterone and estradiol during the luteal phase. In any case, the regular intake of seeds and kernels cannot do any harm. Rather, you are also providing yourself with vital substances such as vitamins, healthy fatty acids (for example, omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds), and minerals. By the way, users advise patience with seed cycling: it is not uncommon for the pleasant effects—even with endometriosis or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)—to only become apparent after three or four months.
Conclusion
Seed cycling or seed rotation is a gentle way to softly regulate the female menstrual cycle. Even though there are no definitive scientific findings yet, many women report positive effects from this natural method. The body benefits in any case from the valuable ingredients of the oilseeds, such as omega-3 fatty acids.
Are you interested in omega-3 fatty acids? More information can be found in the blog post Why are omega-3 fatty acids so important?
