Abstract
BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances, ovarian dysfunction, and impaired folliculogenesis. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) and Achillea millefolium (yarrow) on ovarian histomorphology, gene expression, and hormonal levels in a mouse model of PCOS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental study, 42 virgin adult female Balb/c mice (6-8 wk, 25 ± 5 gr) were randomly divided into 7 groups: control, fennel-yarrow, PCOS group, PCOS groups treated with fennel, PCOS groups treated with yarrow, fennel-yarrow combination, and clomiphene citrate. PCOS was induced using letrozole (1 mg/kg/day). Hormonal levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histological analysis assessed follicular development, and molecular analysis evaluated the expression of insulin receptor, KIT ligand, chemerin, and chemokine-like receptor 1 genes. RESULTS: The PCOS group exhibited significantly lower estrogen (p = 0.001), progesterone (p = 0.001), and follicle counts (primary: p = 0.001, antral: p = 0.001) compared to controls. Testosterone levels were found to be elevated in the PCOS group (p = 0.001). Treatment with fennel-yarrow significantly increased estrogen (p = 0.001), progesterone (p = 0.002), and follicular counts while reducing testosterone levels (p = 0.001). Clomiphene citrate produced similar improvements in hormone levels and ovarian morphology. Gene expression analysis showed no significant changes in insulin receptor, KIT ligand, chemerin, and chemokine-like receptor 1 across groups. CONCLUSION: Fennel and yarrow, particularly in combination, demonstrated significant potential in improving ovarian function, hormonal balance, and folliculogenesis in PCOS mice. These findings suggest fennel and yarrow as promising complementary therapies for PCOS management.