Phytochemical And Pharmacological Activity Of Trigonella Foenum Graceum And Its Impact On Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The main cause of infertility worldwide is PCOS, an endocrine disorder caused by increased levels of androgens (male hormones) in females of reproductive age. The various treatments include lifestyle changes, ovulation induction, high testosterone therapy, insulin sensitizer, myoinositol, folic acid, and vitamin D supplementation and surgical intervention. However, due to drug side effects, there has been an increase in the use of herbal medicines. Herbs and spices are some of the best sources of organic compounds and are necessary for a healthy lifestyle. Fenugreek, a member of the Fabaceae family and one of the oldest spices, is frequently used in traditional herbal remedies and food preparations. It has a wide range of pharmacological properties due to its abundance of diverse phytoconstituents, including antibacterial, antioxidative, anti-parasitic, hypocholesterolemic, anti-fertility hypertensive, hyperthyroidism, etc., Many clinical studies elucidated that the fenugreek seed consumption improved menstrual cycle regularity, reduced polycystic appearing ovaries, decreases the ovarian volume, cysts and significantly increase the follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Additionally, it has been noticed complete cyst dissolution, a significant reduction in cyst size, and the return of a routine menstrual cycle. In order to assess the safety and pharmacological mechanisms of fenugreek seeds in PCOS, additional preclinical and clinical studies with a larger sample size and a more structured methodology are imperative.