Journal of Pharmacopuncture (대한약침학회지)

KOREAN PHARMACOPUNCTURE INSTITUTE (대한약침학회)
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A Review of Clinical and Preclinical Studies on the Therapeutic Potential of Black Seeds (Nigella sativa) in the Management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

  • Rajkapoor, Balasubramanian (Department of Pharmacology, J.K.K. Nattraja College of Pharmacy) ;
  • Naina Mohamed Pakkir, Maideen (Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Dubai Health Authority) ;
  • Sudha, Muthusamy (Department of Pharmacology, The Erode College of Pharmacy) ;
  • Mirunalini, Gobinath (Ratnam Institute of Pharmacy)
  • Received : 2022.02.20
  • Accepted : 2023.02.15
  • Published : 2023.03.31
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Abstract

Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that occurs frequently among women of reproductive age and is a polygenic, multifactorial, endocrine, and metabolic disorder. PCOS is becoming more common as a result of risk factors such as current lifestyle, overnutrition, and stress. The use of traditional herbal medicine is higher among the global population. Hence, this review article focuses on the potential of Nigella sativa to manage women with PCOS. Methods: A literature search was carried out using databases including Medline, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Embase, and Science Direct, as well as reference lists, to identify relevant publications that support the use of N. sativa in the management of women with PCOS. Results: Several clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated that the major bioactive constituent of black seed (N. sativa), thymoquinone, has potential for managing women with PCOS. Moreover, N. sativa may help to manage oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea in women with PCOS through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Conclusion: N. sativa has potential for use as a herbal medicine for managing women with PCOS as an integrative medicine along with traditional and modern medicine in conjunction with calorie restriction and regular exercise.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

The authors express sincere gratefulness to Principal, J.K.K. Nattraja College of Pharmacy, Komarapalayam, for giving an opportunity and online library facilities to write this article.

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