Potentials of curcumin against polycystic ovary syndrome: Pharmacological insights and therapeutic promises

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women (4%-20%) when the ovaries create abnormally high levels of androgens, the male sex hormones that are typically present in women in trace amounts. The primary characteristics of PCOS include oxidative stress, inflammation, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. Generally, metformin, spironolactone, eflornithine and oral contraceptives are used to treat PCOS, despite their several side effects. Therefore, finding a potential candidate for treating PCOS is necessary. Curcumin is a major active natural polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa). A substantial number of studies have shown that curcumin has antiinflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, antibacterial, and anti-apoptotic activities. In addition, curcumin reduces hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance in various conditions, including PCOS. The review highlighted the therapeutic aspects of curcumin against the pathophysiology of PCOS. We also offer a hypothesis to improve the development of medicines based on curcumin against PCOS.

Automated summary

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women (4%-20%), characterized by high levels of male sex hormones called androgens. PCOS is associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. Curcumin, a natural compound found in turmeric, has shown potential in treating PCOS due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, antibacterial, and anti-apoptotic properties. This review focuses on the therapeutic aspects of curcumin against the pathophysiology of PCOS and proposes the development of curcumin-based medicines for PCOS.