Motahare Mohammad sharifi,1Fereshteh Jookar Kashi,2,*Elahe Seyed Hosseini,3
1. Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran 2. Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran 3. Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Basic Sciences Research Institute, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
Introduction: Infertility is a condition affecting both the male and female reproductive systems, defined by the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse . Globally, 1 in 6 individuals will face infertility at some point in their lives. In men, infertility can result from issues like blockages in the reproductive system, hormonal imbalances, or inadequate sperm production in the testicles. Factors contributing to these problems include poor lifestyle choices, heavy smoking and alcohol use, obesity, and exposure to environmental pollutants and toxins. In women, infertility may be caused by conditions like fallopian tube obstruction, uterine issues, ovarian disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and problems with the endocrine system. PCOS, also known as Stein-Leventhal syndrome, is a common metabolic disorder that involves hormonal imbalances, leading to hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and ovulatory dysfunction. This condition is linked to symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, male-pattern hair loss, acne, and weight gain. Individuals with PCOS have an increased risk of fertility problems (such as infertility, premature birth, and stillbirth), metabolic issues (like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes), mental health challenges (including depression and anxiety), cardiovascular risk factors (such as high blood pressure and dyslipidemia), and endometrial cancer.
Methods: Relevant articles from PubMed, Google Scholar (from 2020 to 2024), and SID were reviewed using keywords related to plants in the mechanism of PCOS.
Results: The studies indicate that a combination of allopathic treatments, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies can help manage and treat PCOS . Various herbs, such as flaxseed and licorice, have been found to reduce hyperandrogenism and regulate menstrual cycles due to their therapeutic properties. Research shows that chamomile can improve PCOS by providing anti-inflammatory benefits, alleviating menstrual pain, and treating skin conditions like eczema. Vitex agnus-castus, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can help correct hormonal imbalances related to high estrogen or premenstrual syndrome and improve the balance of sex hormones in animals with PCOS. Studies also suggest that fennel effectively alters endometrial tissue parameters in PCOS by lowering estrogen levels, reducing hyperplasia, and offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In PCOS mice treated with fennel, this herb reduced cystic follicles and restored a normal reproductive cycle. Additionally, cinnamon, ginseng, and evening primrose oil have shown promising results in managing PCOS by lowering blood glucose levels.
Conclusion: Medicinal plants can be effective and affordable options for treating PCOS, but it's essential to recognize that they typically require a more extended treatment period. However, arbitrary use of these plants is not recommended, as it could lead to potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Therefore, it's essential to consult a specialist before using these herbal remedies.