What is Seed Cycling for Menopause? Our Founder, Sophie’s Take

As I near my 50s, I have come to appreciate the unique beauty of this phase of life and the transformations it brings. One of the most significant changes has been how my body responds to hormonal fluctuations, especially as I approach menopause. Whilst I'm still not sure if I am experiencing pre-menopause, I'm interested now more than ever in how to support my hormones naturally I started investigating herbs for stress and hormonal balance and support. I came across this lady on Instagram Pippa Campbell a functional Hormone Nutritionalist when looking into different herbs and it started me on a journey for hormone balance for all areas of my life. As a result, I have recently incorporated seed cycling into my wellness routine. 

What Is Seed Cycling?

A natural way to balance hormones is by eating specific seeds during different phases of your cycle. This simple practice can benefit women at any stage, it can help with PMS and menopause, easing hormonal fluctuations and improving mood, skin, and energy. It's an easy, nutrient-rich addition to your diet for overall hormone health.

Seed cycling operates in two distinct phases:

• Days 1-14 (Menstruation to Ovulation)

   Consume 1-2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds and pumpkin seeds.

• Days 15-28 (Ovulation to Menstruation)

   Switch to 1-2 tablespoons of ground sunflower and sesame seeds.

The Nutritional Power of Seeds

Despite their small size, seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch. Here’s how they work to support hormonal health:

• Flax seeds for hormonal balance:  Lignans in flax seeds help regulate estrogen levels, making them particularly beneficial during menopause when estrogen levels fluctuate.
• Benefits of pumpkin seeds:  Rich in zinc, pumpkin seeds support progesterone production, ensuring a healthy balance with estrogen. This balance is key to reducing common menopause symptoms.
• Selenium and sunflower seeds: Supports estrogen detoxification and promotes a smoother hormonal transition.
• Sesame seeds and omega fatty acids: Essential fatty acids that aid in overall hormone health.

My Experience 

As I am just starting with seed cycling as a natural way to support hormonal health and balance throughout my monthly cycle and potentially during my upcoming period of menopause,  I understand it’s not a quick fix. However, I’m already noticing small but positive shifts. As I continue, I’m hopeful I’ll see more changes in areas like my mood, skin, and energy levels, which others have experienced as long-term benefits of this practice.

If you're curious, like I was, about how to use seeds to balance hormones naturally, start by gradually incorporating them into your diet. Give it at least three months to experience the full benefits. Even if the changes aren’t immediate, you’ll still be nourishing your body with the rich nutrients these seeds provide. 

Botanical remedies for menopause, such as seed cycling, highlight nature’s incredible power and the role holistic health practices play in supporting our well-being through life's transitions.