ABSTRACT
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a syndrome affecting woman, is characterised by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstruation, metabolic disturbances, ovulatory dysfunction, androgen-related symptoms and infertility along with acne and obesity. PCOS is an inexplicable condition, and the exact pathophysiology and aetiology of which have not yet been unveiled; thus, no single universal treatment has proven effective against this disease. An array of pharmaceutical formulations such as clomiphene citrate, metformin, oral contraceptives and gonadotrophins has been prescribed for PCOS patients targeting the symptoms individually and not the disease as a whole. However, these drugs are associated with adverse side-effects such as nausea, heart failure, weight gain and hypersensitivity and also a lower efficacy, thereby discouraging the long-term consumption of these drugs. Therefore, researchers are more interested in exploring natural sources as a remedy for PCOS. Flavonoids are secondary metabolites, which occur abundantly in the food stuffs of plant origin; they have various biological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and anti-oestrogenic properties and are capable of fighting metabolic as well as hormonal irregularities. Among the flavonoids, apigenin, catechins and soy isoflavones are extensively studied by the researchers due to minimum side-effects. A vast literature is available highlighting the beneficial effects of these flavonoids. These phytochemicals have the potential to overcome oxidative stress and inflammation during PCOS and can also augment the hormonal imbalance. This chapter focusses on the protective efficacy of flavonoids naturally occurring in foods, vegetables, herbs and beverages and proposes those as an alternative remedy to manage PCOS. It highlights the fact that inclusion of these flavonoids as a dietary supplement can minimize or neutralize the ill effects of PCOS.
