Abstract

Nilisha Tanwar*, Dr. Sakshi

ABSTRACT

Menstrual disturbances remain one of the leading causes of outpatient consultation in women of reproductive age. Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, heavy bleeding, and premenstrual symptoms adversely affect physical, psychological, and reproductive health.[8,9] Ayurveda interprets these disorders through derangement of Vata, Pitta and Kapha Dosha, resulting in dysfunction of Artava Dhatu, Rasa Dhatu and Artavavaha Srotas.[1-3] In recent years, seed cycling has emerged as a food-based complementary practice aimed at supporting cyclical hormonal balance through scheduled intake of flaxseed, pumpkin seed, sesame seed and sunflower seed during different phases of the menstrual cycle.[4-7] Though not described by this name in classical Ayurvedic texts, the concept may be correlated with Ahara Chikitsa, Ritucharya, and phase-specific nutritional support.[1-3] The present review critically examines seed cycling from Ayurvedic and contemporary viewpoints, with special reference to constitutional types and menstrual disorders. Available evidence indicates that these seeds provide lignans, essential fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, selenium and vitamin E, which may indirectly influence ovulatory health, inflammatory pathways, metabolic status and menstrual regularity. Seed cycling may be useful as an adjunct in Vataja cycle irregularity, Pittaja painful or heavy menstruation and Kaphaja delayed cycles associated with metabolic dysfunction. However, direct clinical evidence remains limited. Proper patient selection, digestive assessment and constitutional evaluation are essential before recommendation. Further controlled studies are needed to validate its role in integrative Ayurvedic gynaecology.