As the New Year rings in fresh opportunities, health resolutions are high on everyone’s list. Among fitness goals and diet plans, one underrated yet transformative practice is making waves for women’s health—seed cycling. Having personally incorporated seed cycling into my routine to manage PCOS, I found it to be one of the practices that significantly helped ease my symptoms. This ancient, natural remedy has been taking centre stage for its ability to balance hormones and heal the gut, offering a plethora of benefits for women navigating hectic modern lifestyles.
You can only imagine my joy at finding Samāh, a health food brand that offers easy-to-use seed cycling blends. I got to chat with Samah’s founder Keerthi Aashish, whose personal journey with hormonal imbalances, acne, and gut health challenges inspired her to bring this practice to a broader audience. ‘I knew there was nothing really credible in India's market, and I wanted to bring this to everyone out there, and, you know, help a lot of women,’ says Keerthi, who has turned her personal struggles into a mission to empower women with natural solutions.
Why Seed Cycling?
Persistent fatigue, mood swings, bloating, and stubborn acne are often signs of hormonal imbalance—a common issue in today’s fast-paced world. The culprit? Stress, processed foods, and nutrient deficiencies. Seed cycling, a food-as-medicine approach, works by providing your body with the nutrients it needs during different phases of the menstrual cycle.
Image use for representational purposes only.
At its core, seed cycling is simple. It involves consuming specific seeds during the two phases of your cycle—the menstrual and follicular (days 1–14) and the ovulatory and luteal phases (days 15–28). These seeds help balance estrogen and progesterone, the two key hormones that govern women’s health.
Phase 1: Flax and pumpkin seeds are rich in lignans and zinc, which bind to excess estrogen and prepare the body for progesterone production.
Phase 2: Sunflower and sesame seeds boost progesterone levels and combat excess estrogen.
The result? Reduced PMS symptoms, improved skin, better gut health, and overall hormonal balance.
Image Source: Samah.in
At Samah, Keerthi goes a step ahead, adding the goodness of protein-packed hemp seeds and adaptogens like Shatavari and moringa to both blends. ‘Usually, we recommend having one scoop a day and the best way is to blend it into a smoothie or blend it into a soup, or sprinkle it on top of your salad, or make healthy chocolate with it. It can be, it can be the way you want,’ suggests Keerthi.
The Story Behind Samāh
Keerthi’s health journey began at 13 when she experienced severe acne and menstrual cramps. Doctors prescribed birth control and medications, which provided only temporary relief. Over the years, she developed IBS, weight gain, and diminished metabolism, all of which eroded her confidence.
The turning point came after childbirth when her postpartum hormones wreaked havoc. Seed cycling, which she had initially dabbled in, became her saving grace. ‘What it really did was calm down my hormones after a certain point. I used to have severe cramps even after I gave birth, so it completely took my cramps away, which was a miracle,’ explains Keerthi. Seed cycling also helped Keerthi with postpartum hair fall and acne. Determined to simplify seed cycling for modern women, Keerthi created Samāh, blending traditional wisdom with modern convenience.
Why It Matters Today
In a world where women are juggling careers, family, and personal growth, health often takes a backseat. Keerthi highlights: ‘I think in today's world, we're navigating really, really hectic lifestyles we're at, we're functioning at very high stress levels, and we're always exposed to processed food, and it takes a toll on our hormonal health and our gut health.’ Seed cycling is the most natural way to support hormonal health and reduce symptoms like PMS, bloating, and fatigue. It’s simple, effective, and fits perfectly into busy lifestyles.’
Image Source: Instagram/Samah_in
A Resolution for the Modern Woman
This year, ditch quick fixes and embrace sustainable health practices. With seed cycling, you’re not just addressing symptoms but healing the root causes of hormonal imbalances. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, reduce period pain, or boost your energy, this practice offers a holistic solution.
As you plan your New Year resolutions, consider making seed cycling a cornerstone of your health journey. Your hormones—and your future self—will thank you.
Ready to start seed cycling? Visit Samāh to explore their range of blends and begin your journey toward hormonal harmony.