Seed Cycling for Conception: Does It Work and How to Start

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 19 May 2025, 9:34 am

Seed cycling is a natural practice where you eat specific seeds, like flax and pumpkin in the first half of your cycle, and sesame and sunflower in the second, to support hormonal balance. You can start seed cycling to improve your chances of conceiving. While there’s no scientific proof that it directly boosts fertility, its nutrient-rich profile is known to benefit reproductive health.

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Hormonal imbalance often makes it challenging to conceive. Even small hormonal shifts can sometimes influence the menstrual cycle and may play a role in conception challenges. Although medicines are available to regulate your hormones, you can also try holistic or natural methods to improve your chances.
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Seed cycling has gained popularity in recent years as a natural practice that some believe may support reproductive health, with minimal reported side effects. However, there is no scientific evidence confirming its effectiveness for improving conception. Incorporating seeds into your diet can regulate your hormones, improving fertility. Whether you are actively trying to conceive or have been for a while, seed cycling may help you.

How Does Seed Cycling Work?

Seed cycling is a popular natural approach that some women find helpful for supporting hormonal balance. While there’s no clinical evidence proving it improves fertility, many people use it in hopes of easing menstrual cramps, promoting a more regular cycle, and managing symptoms associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
  • Phase 1: Follicular Phase (Day 1 to 14)
The follicular phase begins with your cycle and ends with your ovulation. But it can also go up to day 21, depending on your cycle length. Your hormones are typically low in this phase, except oestrogen, which begins to rise, thickening your endometrial lining.
  • Phase 2: Luteal Phase (Day 15 to 28)
After your ovulation, the luteal phase begins and ends when your next period starts. Progesterone surges in this phase, helping in implantation, and when you conceive, it maintains your pregnancy.Seed cycling balances the oestrogen and progesterone levels during your menstrual cycle to improve fertility.

Does Seed Cycling Work?

Seeds contain a large amount of antioxidants and fatty acids, which reduce inflammation in your body. High inflammation spikes cortisol levels, causing a hormonal imbalance.

  1. Pumpkin and Flax Seeds During Follicular Phase

Pumpkin seeds are a plant-based zinc source, essential for egg maturation and progesterone production. It can also reduce your menstrual cramps.Flax seeds are a natural source of lignans necessary for oestrogen. It lowers your high testosterone levels if you have PCOS.

2. Sunflower and Sesame Seeds During Luteal Phase

The presence of vitamin E in sunflower seeds promotes healthier eggs for fertilisation with positive outcomes. It also improves your progesterone level, a vital hormone to support your pregnancy. The presence of selenium in these seeds helps regulate your oestrogen receptors.Sesame seeds are high in coenzyme Q10, which improves ovulation and fertility. They are also a good source of lignans and zinc to promote progesterone levels as you enter the luteal phase.

Benefits of Seed Cycling

Seed cycling has many benefits because of its rich nutrient content, which supports fertility. It further regulates the oestrogen and progesterone levels in your body, making it easier to conceive.However, if you are undergoing an IVF procedure, discuss seed cycling with your doctor before starting it.Seed cycling has the following benefits:
  • It reduces acne and menstrual cramps.
  • Improves your water retention capabilities and cellulite production.
  • Lowers your mood swings.
  • Promotes weight loss and hair health.
  • Reduces hot flashes often experienced with menopause.

Are There Any Side Effects or Risks with Seed Cycling?

You can watch out for allergic reactions as a side effect. Be cautious if you are consuming these seeds for the first time. Stop consuming if you experience any allergic reaction.Also, seed cycling is a dietary way of improving conception chances, so there are no other risks. It may also increase the fibre in your body, which can influence your bowel movement. Ensure you drink enough water for hydration.However, if you have any ongoing treatments, you can consult your doctor to clear your doubts before starting seed cycling.

How Can You Start Seed Cycling for Conception?

It is easy to start seed cycling and follow a simple routine of including them in your diet. You need to consume these seeds daily based on the phases of your menstrual cycle.
  • Pumpkin and flax seeds during the follicular phase
Pumpkin seeds and flax seeds are important during the follicular phase of your cycle.Daily intake: One tablespoon each of ground pumpkin and flax seeds.It maintains oestrogen levels in your body and also prepares for the progesterone surge during the luteal phase.
  • Sunflower and sesame seeds during the luteal phase
Include sunflower seeds and sesame seeds in your diet during the luteal phase.Daily intake: One tablespoon each of ground sunflower and sesame seeds.These seeds produce progesterone in your body while keeping the oestrogen levels in check.You can track your progress by monitoring your menstrual cycle after starting seed cycling. You can use fertility apps or maintain a journal to add any symptoms or changes in your cycle.

How Seeds Can Be Incorporated Into Diet

To get maximum benefits, it is best to consume the raw seeds in powder form or add the powder to different recipes. When you are just starting to eat the seeds, it can be challenging to include them in your diet. Trying new foods with the seeds can make them part of your everyday diet.Seed cycling adds a great source of healthy nutrients to your diet. The nutritional value of seeds is said to support conception since they are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids.

FAQs on Seed Cycling for Conception: Does It Work and How to Start

  1. How do I start seed cycling?You can start seed cycling by eating pumpkin seeds and flax seeds from days 1 to 14 of your cycle. Then, switch to sunflower seeds and sesame seeds from days 15 to 28.
  2. Which seed is best for conceiving?Pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds have essential nutrients that support your reproductive health.
  3. Which time is best for seed cycling?Seed cycling is best to start from the first day of your period and continue throughout your cycle.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD- Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare New Delhi