Therapeutic Potential of Medicinal Plants in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Narrative Review

<p style="text-align: justify;">Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health in women of reproductive age. Conventional therapies for PCOS often focus on symptom management but are associated with side effects, leading many women to explore complementary approaches. This review aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of herbal medicines in the management of PCOS, based on data from clinical trials and preclinical models<strong>. </strong>An extensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, covering studies published from 1995 to 2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical trials and randomized controlled trials on herbal interventions for PCOS, as well as relevant preclinical <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in vitro</em> studies. Key outcomes analyzed were hormonal regulation, insulin sensitivity, ovarian function, and anti-inflammatory effects. Numerous herbs demonstrated therapeutic potential in PCOS management, including. <em>Nigella sativa </em>L., Ranunculaceae; <em>Vitex agnus-castus</em> L., Lamiaceae; <em>Trigonella foenum-graecum</em> L., Fabaceae and <em>Cinnamomum verum</em> J.Presl, Lauraceae These herbs exhibited diverse mechanisms such as modulation of insulin signaling pathways, reduction of oxidative stress, hormonal normalization, and anti-androgenic effects. Clinical trials reported improvements in menstrual regularity, insulin resistance, and hirsutism with favorable safety profiles. Herbal medicine represents a promising adjunctive or alternative strategy for managing PCOS. While existing evidence supports their efficacy, variability in study design, dosage, and outcome measures limits definitive conclusions. Future standardized, high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm therapeutic benefits and ensure safety.</p>