Feel The Heal Over Time

Cycle Balance works with your body to heal from within. One question we commonly get is, “when will I start feeling an improvement?” The short answer is, it depends. On average, it takes 3-4 cycles to start noticing major shifts. However, many will notice an improvement in the first 1-2 cycles, while those with more chronic, underlying health conditions might experience more noticeable signs of progress in cycles 5-6. 

The varying timetable of healing reflects our individual cycle experiences, but also the need to make incremental changes over time in order to build health that lasts. Ovarian follicle development (the preparation and release of an egg from our ovaries) happens over the course of our lifetimes and is dictated by our hormones. While we’re actually born with all the eggs we’ll ever have, the time required to ‘activate’ and mature the cell that will become the egg we ovulate takes 120+ days and is dependent on balanced hormones. With proper ovulation comes regulated cycles with decreased symptoms, increased fertility, and is considered to be a sign of overall good health—demonstrating the need to focus on our hormonal health for a minimum of 120 days to see lasting effects. 

Below are common signs of progress to look out for as you consistently take Cycle Balance each month:

Cycles 1-2

Herbal healing is a cumulative process, so you might not feel big changes yet. However, you’ll likely notice brighter menstrual blood and less clotting as circulation begins to improve. Herbs such as White Peony Root, Szechuan Lovage Root, or Motherwort could be in your formula to help improve blood flow to the uterus. Some people may also begin to notice an incremental reduction in symptoms as the herbal formula is introduced to your system.

Cycles 3-4

Depending on your individual presentation, herbs such as Angelica Sinensis, Vitex Berry, or Cyperus work to balance out your hormones. This could mean your progesterone is rising, estrogen is properly detoxing, cortisol spikes are leveling, or more. At this stage, the majority of users begin to experience more noticeable improvements in symptoms, such as: reduction in pain, lighter flow, less fatigue, fewer mood swings, and improved sleep. 

Cycles 5-7 

As your hormones settle into a new, more balanced normal, you’ll likely notice the biggest improvements in pain and symptoms. Herbs such as Corydalis, Gardenia, and Skullcap are powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidants whose effects build up over time to heal chronic conditions. Reducing inflammation can be the key to reducing cycle-related symptoms such as pain, breakouts, nausea, and more. During this time, many report “I finally have my life back!” and notice a lighter, shorter, and/or more regulated menstrual flow. 

Cycles 8+ (Ongoing) 

As you continue forward with holistic healing, you’ll likely feel more balanced every day of the month (i.e., not just around your period) as hormonal fluctuations are now within a healthier range. 

Additional benefits reported include: increased energy, less hormonal acne, fewer headaches, better digestion, and more. Herbs such as Poria, Atractylodes, and Bupleurum are known to benefit many aspects of our health—from digestion, to liver/kidney health, to immune support—and are included to support your body holistically. 

Keep in mind as you continue to heal

Ultimately, it’s completely normal to experience changes and fluctuations in your cycle throughout this process. Noticing a decrease in symptoms, even if they waver, is always a great sign of Cycle Balance at work. This should balance out as your body reaches a new normal. 

No matter where you are in your healing journey, the hormones that control our cycle are quite sensitive and can be easily affected by other life factors, such as stress, sleep, diet, & much more. So, continuing your herbal regimen will help maintain a smooth cycle over the long-term. 

Finally, when using herbal supplements preventatively, it’s not always easy to tell if they’re “working” (we’re used to only getting signs when something is wrong), but rest assured the long term benefits are taking hold, and no news is actually good news. 

*Your cycle and your health is unique so you may notice improvements on a different timeline. This treatment is most effective when paired with good sleep, plenty of water, less alcohol, and a diet of bountiful leafy greens. We’re here to support you - email team@elixhealing.com.

This article was reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Fine.

Dr. Elizabeth Fine is currently the Dean of Clinical Education at Emperor’s College, the #2 ranked colleges for TCM. She has been practicing Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine for over 20 years, with a specialization in women’s reproductive health.