​Seed Cycling Treats

From the kitchen of Dr. Stamer
Adapted and inspired by a seed cycling recipe created by Emily Wiggins, ND. ​

Seed cycling is a way to promote a balanced menstrual cycle as well as tune us to our inner rhythms. 

A healthy menstrual cycle length can range from 26-35 days, but often 28 days is used as the average benchmark of a normal cycle. The cycle contains two dominant hormonal portions. Days 1-14 are known as the follicular phase and characterized by higher estrogen levels. Days 15-28 are known as the luteal phase and characterized by higher progesterone levels. 

Flax and pumpkin promote hormone balance in the first half of our cycle where estrogen is dominant, while sesame and sunflower seeds promote hormone balance in the second half of our cycle where progesterone is dominant. 

These seeds are also full of healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and fiber. This makes them easy to share with friends and family even if they don't menstruate.  

Interestingly enough, a healthy menstrual cycle is approximately the length of the moon cycle, approximately 29 days. If your cycles are regular, seed cycle with your menstrual cycle, but if they are irregular, you can cycle with the moon’s flow, which you will see below. It is a beautiful way to be in touch with nature’s cycles as you learn about your own. 

This recipe will make 7 seed cycling treats. You can double this recipe to make 14 treats at once for ease. I like making them a week ahead of time and having them be a bit fresher, but I always appreciate a time and energy hack as well! 

You can also simply add the seeds to granola, oatmeal, salads or yogurt. But, I love this recipe so I can eat these as a delicious morning treat or afternoon snack. 

Seed Cycling Treats for Follicular Phase (from New Moon to Full Moon) 
Makes 7 balls

Ingredients:

• ½ cup flax seeds
• ½ cup pumpkin seeds
• ½ cup pitted dates  
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan salt 
• ¼ cup almond butter 
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil 
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon 
• optional: unsweetened shredded coconut or cacao powder to roll the treats in after forming 

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until the seeds are pulverized and it creates a sticky dough. The seeds will still be visible. When you pinch the dough it should stick together. If it is dry, add another tablespoon of coconut oil.
2. Shape into balls. You can roll the treats in unsweetened coconut shreds or cacao powder as well for extra flavor and an adorable look!
3. Refrigerate and enjoy one each day of the week. 

Seed Cycling Treats for Luteal Phase (Full Moon to New Moon) 
Makes 7 balls
​
Ingredients: 

• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup sesame seeds
• ½ cup pitted dates  
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan salt 
• ¼ cup almond butter 
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil 
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon 
• optional: unsweetened shredded coconut or cacao powder to roll the treats in after forming 

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until the seeds are pulverized and it creates a sticky dough. The seeds will still be visible. When you pinch the dough it should stick together. If it is dry, add another tablespoon of coconut oil. 
2. Shape into balls. You can roll the treats in unsweetened coconut shreds or cacao powder as well for extra flavor and an adorable look! 
3. Refrigerate and enjoy one each day of the week. 

​
Click here to download a printable recipe.

---

​Dr. Stamer earned her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine at National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR. During her doctoral training, she also earned a Certificate in Natural Childbirth. She supplemented this coursework by completing a two-year apprenticeship in midwifery, women’s health, and pediatrics with a private practice in Portland, OR. Dr. Stamer has a passion for preventative medicine, educating patients about their bodies and health, and serving the community. She seeks to help people on their healing journeys using nutrition, lifestyle counseling, botanical medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, and homeopathy.