ABSTRACT
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous disorder, characterized by hyperandrogenism, irregular menstruation, and insulin resistance. The prevalence differs between 6% and 20% in the reproductive age group. There are allopathic drugs (metformin, clomiphene, contraceptive pills) for the treatment of PCOS but they have also side effects. For this reason, some plant-derived natural extracts are planned to be used for PCOS treatment. Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol with anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Resveratrol inhibits theca cell proliferation and decreases excessive production of ovarian androgen which improves in ovulation. Quercetin is an herbal flavonoid with antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for the treatment of PCOS by reducing the level of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and insulin resistance. Quercetin directly degrades the reactive oxygen species and free radicals which reduce the oxidative stress in women affected by PCOS. 6-Gingerol is an extract of ginger with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It improves the estradiol level, sex-steroid profile, increases COX-2 gene expression, and decreases the cysts in ovaries. Androgens are synthesized into estrogen by cytochrome p450 aromatase enzyme. 6-Gingerol hampered this pathway and leads to reducing the estrogen level Therefore, this chapter provides evidence that resveratrol, quercetin, and 6-gingerol could be considered as phytotherapeutics agents to treat PCOS.
