Seed Cycling

I love imagining a time when women gathered to bleed on the earth together. Held in a safe space telling wise women stories, washing each others hair and massaging one another’s bodies . The truth is in a modern world we have been removed and disconnected from nature and our own bodies internal pulse. This can be a contributing factor to feminine cycles being out of sync from our primal and ancient rhythm. Chronic levels of daily stress, a poor quality diet, lack of exercise, and unattended to traumas can all contribute to hormonal imbalances.

The simple seed cycling system could naturally help to set your menstrual phases in sync with what is right for your body. Along with this tool it is beneficial to reconnect with nature as often as possible, spending time outside barefoot on the earth, and begin noticing the ever changing moon phases. Gazing at the moon several times throughout the month can energetically attune you to this powerful force of nature.

We have four phases of a menstrual cycle. Menstruation, Follicular, Ovulation, and Luteal. But for seed cycling we simplify it into two; Follicular day 1-14ish and Luteal day 15-28ish.

This is how seed cycling works:

Where to start depends on how familiar you are with your cycle and how regular it is. This is where a period tracker I like Stardust or a good old-fashioned calendar can be a great way to take note of your fluctuations and symptoms.

Enjoy one tablespoon of each of the specific freshly ground organic seeds per day in equal parts (two tablespoons total). I like to have mason jars labeled and kept in the fridge for freshness. You can sprinkle them on everything but my routine is in the morning on my breakfast, so I don’t forget! 

Follicular Phase (day 1-14ish)
The follicular phase lasts about 14 days, starting on the first day of menstruation. 

In this phase, our estrogen levels start low and steadily increase in preparation for ovulation (the release of an egg) and potential pregnancy. 

Rising estrogen levels increase luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, while decreasing estrogen levels cause the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), so there’s a fine line between too much and too little estrogen, and imbalanced levels can affect other hormones too. 

Phytoestrogens (found in seeds) are a plant-based source simulating estrogen that adapt the body’s estrogen levels. They increase estrogen levels where needed, yet they also can decrease excess estrogen in the body. This is from the lignans they contain, which bind to estrogen receptors and help to modulate estrogen production. 

Along with phytoestrogens, seeds that are high in omega 3s that are also beneficial. Omega 3s help to reduce inflammation in the body, regulate FSH levels and support reproductive membrane function.

Flax Seeds
+ High in lignans to block excess estrogen production
+ High in omega 3s

Pumpkin Seeds
+ Rich in zinc, which prepares the body for progesterone secretion in the next phase
+ High in omega 3s

Fish oil

• you add in this supplement for extra support

  + Contains EPA and DHA, important omega 3 fats found only in cold water fish
  + High in lignans

Luteal Phase (day 15-28ish)

The luteal phase is brought on by the sudden drop in estrogen, FSH and LH, which occurs just after ovulation around day 15. This is when progesterone levels should begin to rise steadily. Estrogen levels also increase during this phase, and if they get too high, they’re responsible for PMS symptoms and a difficult cycle. 

Progesterone keeps estrogen in balance, and so modulating healthy progesterone levels is vital for reproductive function. In this phase, we want to focus on omega 6s, which convert into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in the body, supporting progesterone levels and reducing inflammation in the body related to PMS.

Sesame Seeds
+ High in lignans to modulate estrogen and progesterone levels
+ High in omega 6 (which converts into GLA in the body)

Sunflower Seeds
+ High in selenium, which supports liver function to prevent clogging from excess hormones, resulting in proper hormone excretion
+ High in omega 6 (which converts into GLA in the body)

Evening Primrose Oil

• you can add in a supplement for extra support

+ High in gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) and other important omega 6 fatty acid

* I order my seeds from hOMe grown living foods they have high vibes organic products and a beautiful mission 

This is one approach to hormonal regulation. It may take up to six months, along with other diet and lifestyle changes, to see significiant shifts but it is worth the effort and some people see shifts right away.

Please seek support and guidance form a health practitioner if symptoms do not change. You are not alone with the relearning of our ancient ways and unlearning of conditioned ways to balance your hormones and reclaim your true nature. 

To your vitality and happy hormones.

Love Melody

Credit: Joanne at The Healing Cuisine