Plants as source of new therapies for endometriosis: a review of preclinical and clinical studies Original paper
Researched by:
-
Karen Pendergrass
ID
Karen Pendergrass
Read MoreKaren Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.
-
Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
-
Endometriosis
Endometriosis
Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.
-
Karen Pendergrass
Read More
Researched by:
-
Karen Pendergrass
ID
Karen Pendergrass
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Karen Pendergrass
What Was Reviewed?
This review systematically examined plant-derived agents and their potential for treating endometriosis. The authors focused on three main categories: herbal extracts, specific plant-derived bioactive compounds, and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM). By analyzing preclinical and clinical studies, the review assessed the efficacy, mechanisms of action, and clinical potential of these agents, including compounds such as resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, curcumin, and cannabinoids. The paper aimed to critically evaluate the relevance of natural therapies as safer, long-term alternatives to conventional treatments for endometriosis.
Who Was Reviewed?
The review covered studies involving various experimental models, including human cell lines, rodent models of endometriosis, and limited clinical trials on human subjects. These studies collectively investigated the effects of plant-derived agents on cellular and molecular markers of endometriosis, such as inflammation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. The review also discussed findings from clinical trials of Chinese herbal medicine and individual bioactive compounds.
What Were the Most Important Findings?
The review identified several plant-derived agents with significant potential for endometriosis therapy. Herbal extracts such as pueraria flower extract (PFE) and aged black garlic exhibited anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-proliferative effects in experimental models. Bioactive compounds like resveratrol and curcumin demonstrated pleiotropic effects, targeting processes like estrogen modulation, oxidative stress reduction, and inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Chinese herbal medicine formulations were found to alleviate symptoms, reduce lesion size, and prevent recurrence in clinical contexts. Mechanistically, these agents influence key pathways involving cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α), transcription factors (NF-κB), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), making them promising candidates for integrative treatment strategies.
What Are the Greatest Implications of This Review?
The findings emphasize the need for standardized protocols and further clinical trials to validate the safety and efficacy of plant-derived therapies in human endometriosis patients. The review underscores the potential of these agents as part of multimodal treatment strategies, offering reduced side effects and improved long-term management compared to conventional hormonal or surgical approaches. Additionally, the pleiotropic action of these agents aligns with the complex pathophysiology of endometriosis, addressing inflammation, angiogenesis, and cellular survival concurrently.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.
Pueraria Flower Extract (PFE)
Pueraria lobata (kudzu) is used in traditional medicine for cardiovascular issues, menopause, and alcohol dependence due to its bioactive isoflavones. These compounds, particularly puerarin, offer vasodilatory effects and antioxidant properties, enhancing blood circulation and reducing oxidative stress.
Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs)
Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent enzymes that regulate extracellular matrix remodeling, with critical roles in health, disease, and interactions with the microbiome.