Question 1

What is seed cycling?

Accepted Answer

Seed Cycling is when you take one tablespoon of flax seeds and one tablespoon of pumpkin seeds a day in your follicular stage of your cycle, followed by one tablespoon of sunflower seeds and one tablespoon of sesame seeds in the luteal stage. The idea is that our hormones fluctuate throughout our cycle, and different seeds provide nutrients to support each phase.

Question 2

When is my follicular phase?

Accepted Answer

The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period and lasts up to ovulation.

Question 3

When is my luteal phase?

Accepted Answer

The luteal phase starts after ovulation and continues up to the day before your next period.

Question 4

How do I start seed cycling?

Accepted Answer

Take one tablespoon each of pumpkin and flax seeds daily for 14 days from the first day of your period. Then switch to one tablespoon each of sunflower and sesame seeds daily until your next period starts.

Question 5

I don’t have a period right now, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

You can begin seed cycling using the moon cycle: start the follicular mix on the new moon and switch to the luteal mix on the full moon.

Question 6

I got my period mid-seed cycling — do I start again?

Accepted Answer

Many people start back at day one with pumpkin and flax seeds if their period comes early. Listen to your body, as research is limited in this area.

Question 7

Can I start seed cycling at any point in my cycle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can start at any point. If you know your current cycle phase, begin there. Otherwise, some start with the next moon cycle or period.

Question 8

Should I eat the seeds whole or ground?

Accepted Answer

Crushed or ground seeds are ideal — especially flax and sesame — for better absorption. If grinding at home, store them in the fridge and grind in small batches.

Question 9

How does seed cycling help with period cramps and other symptoms?

Accepted Answer

While seed cycling isn’t well studied, many women report relief from cramps and hormone-related symptoms. Seeds are rich in nutrients that support hormone balance.

Question 10

What if I have a long cycle?

Accepted Answer

You can still switch seed phases after 14 days or when you ovulate, whichever is better for your body. OV is working on flexible kits for different cycles.

Question 11

What if I have a short cycle?

Accepted Answer

If your cycle is shorter than 28 days, switch to the luteal mix after 14 days or whenever you ovulate, depending on what feels best for your body.

Question 12

Can I take more than one tablespoon per day?

Accepted Answer

Generally, 1–2 tablespoons is safe. These are natural foods, but balance and hydration are key. If you want a personalised plan, consult a nutritionist.

Question 13

What if I miss a day or take less than a tablespoon?

Accepted Answer

That’s okay! Consistency helps, but missing a day won’t ruin progress. Just continue when you can and notice what difference it makes.

Question 14

Why is the starter kit for 3 months?

Accepted Answer

The HPO axis (brain-hormone connection) can take a few cycles to rebalance. Many see benefits after the first month, but bigger improvements by month three.

Question 15

Will seed cycling help with mood swings?

Accepted Answer

Many women report improved mood and fewer mood swings while seed cycling. While evidence is anecdotal, the vitamins in seeds may contribute to this benefit.

Claire Hopper and her business OV Cycle named finalist in the 2025 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards

Say Goodbye to Period Pain: The Best Foods to Beat Menstrual Cramps

Say Goodbye to Hormonal Breast Pain: Discover the Natural Food Remedies That Really Work