THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF BETA-CARYOPHYLLENE (BCP) IN POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS): INSIGHTS FROM RAT MODEL STUDIES

Anushiya V.*, Balamurugan S. and Marihrishnaa K.

ABSTRACT

Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) was investigated for its potential therapeutic benefits on polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder in women. PCOS is characterized by metabolic disorders, insulin resistance, anovulation, and hyperandrogenism. Its aromatic properties make BCP an important component of many products, despite its structural similarities to cannabinoids. In this study, BCP was studied for its impact on ovarian follicle quantity and quality in PCOS rats and for its impact on weight and ovarian size in these rats. A significant difference was found between the BCP-treated control group and the estradiol valerate-treated control group in terms of LH and FSH levels. A BCP treatment also elevates estradiol and progesterone levels, decreases testosterone, restores antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduces oxidative stress in ovarian tissue. Further, BCP treatment reverses the histomorphometric changes in ovarian structure seen in PCOS rats and increases the number of ovarian follicles. According to these studies, BCP might be effective in treating metabolic and reproductive problems related to PCOS.

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Beta-caryophyllene (BCP), Reproductive disorders, Ovarian follicles, Antioxidant therapy.