My Monthly · Jun 6, 2025
A Natural Rhythm: How Seed Cycling Can Support Hormonal Balance
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by Dr. Ulrike Kaunzner
Managing PMS and hormonal imbalances can feel overwhelming. But natural practices like seed cycling are gaining attention for their gentle, cycle-synced support. Backed by traditional wisdom and emerging science, this approach may offer meaningful relief for those seeking alternatives to conventional treatments.
How Seed Cycling Works
Seed cycling supports the menstrual cycle by pairing specific seeds with each phase. The idea is to provide nutrients and plant compounds that align with hormonal shifts—supporting estrogen in the first half and progesterone in the second.
Follicular Phase (Days 1–14)
Flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds are rich in lignans, zinc, magnesium, omega-3s, and tryptophan. These nutrients help modulate estrogen levels, support healthy ovulation, and ease common PMS symptoms like bloating, irritability, and fatigue.
Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
Sesame and sunflower seeds provide vitamin E, magnesium, lignans, and omega-6 fatty acids. These compounds may support progesterone production, calm inflammation, and reduce symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood fluctuations.
The Hormonal Benefits of Seed Cycling
This cyclical approach may ease a variety of menstrual symptoms:
- Mood Swings & PMDD: Nutrients like vitamin B6, magnesium, and lignans are associated with more stable moods and reduced PMS-related anxiety and irritability.
- Headaches & Breast Tenderness: Phytoestrogens in flaxseeds may support more stable estrogen levels, while magnesium helps reduce tension and pain.
- Acne: Omega-3s in flaxseeds offer anti-inflammatory support that may help reduce hormonal breakouts.
- Sleep Disruption: Magnesium and tryptophan support melatonin and serotonin production, helping improve sleep quality.
- Bloating & Constipation: Fiber-rich seeds help regulate digestion and ease common PMS-related discomfort.
While large-scale clinical studies are still emerging, a wealth of anecdotal evidence suggests many women report feeling more balanced after several months of consistent seed cycling.
Getting Started
Getting started is simple:
- Days 1–14: Consume 1 tablespoon each of ground flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds daily.
- Days 15–28: Switch to 1 tablespoon each of ground sesame and sunflower seeds daily.
Consistency is key - benefits tend to build gradually over time.
I’m Dr. Ulrike Kaunzner, a practicing neurologist and co-founder of Two Moons, which brings you seed cycling in a capsule. In our research, most people preferred a capsule format for ease and consistency – especially as hormonal balance supplement. Our Two Moons Seed Cycling Capsules (Zest for the first cycle half and Zen for the second cycle half) simplify the process and make it travel-friendly.
Each seed cycling capsule delivers phase-specific seed blends along with additional herbs like chasteberry and psyllium for natural PMS support. Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is a flowering plant long used to support hormonal balance. It may help regulate prolactin and luteinizing hormone (LH), promoting more regular cycles and relief from symptoms like breast tenderness, irritability, and low mood. Psyllium, a gentle prebiotic fiber, supports digestion and elimination—crucial for effective hormone metabolism.
Final Thoughts
Seed cycling offers a gentle, food-based way to connect with your cycle and support hormone health naturally. Especially for those managing PMS, irregular periods, or mild mood shifts, it may provide a meaningful sense of relief over time.
Your cycle has a rhythm. Let nature support it.
Links to Two Moons:
As with any new practice or supplement, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider before starting—especially if you have PCOS, endometriosis, or are on hormonal birth control/ hormonal medications.
