Abstract
Phytochemical contents of honey are presumed to be beneficial to the female reproductive system (FRS). However, the biological effects of honey supplementation (HS) in vivo on the FRS remain unclear. This review aims to investigate the current literature on the effects of HS on the FRS, particularly on the sex hormone profile and reproductive organs (uterus and vagina). A systematic literature search using Scopus, MEDLINE via Ovid and Cochrane Library databases was conducted. Records were screened and identified for preclinical and clinical studies addressing the effects of HS on the FRS. Data on populations, interventions, outcomes and methodological quality were extracted. Studies were synthesised using tables and written summaries. Of the 198 identified records, six fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All six records were used for data extraction: two experimental studies using rats as the model organism and four human clinical studies of honey on female reproductive health. HS elevated the progesterone levels, restrained body weight increase, prevented uterine and vaginal atrophies in ovariectomised rats, attenuated symptoms of candidiasis and improved oxidative status in patients. Current evidence shows that short-term HS following surgical or physiological menopause exerts an oestrogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect on the FRS. However, insufficient long-term studies preclude any definitive conclusions.
Highlights
The use of honey for general health found its beginning approximately 8000 years ago [1]
This review aims to assess the effects of Honey supplementation (HS) on the female hormone profile and reproductive organs to consolidate the current understanding of this field
The titles and abstracts of the 97 articles were reviewed for eligibility, and only ten articles were eligible for consideration
Summary
The use of honey for general health found its beginning approximately 8000 years ago [1]. The use of honey to resolve numerous indications associated with different organ systems, ranging from irritating cough, respiratory tract infection, cataract and ocular diseases, fever and insomnia, has been documented in ancient texts [2,3]. Modern scientific evidence further consolidates the medical benefits of honey. With regard to the circulatory system, honey is a potent source of trace elements, such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn), necessary for haemoglobin synthesis. Honey supplementation (HS) reduces the severity of anaemia [4,5] and angina resulting from ischemia [6,7]. Honey enhances the integumentary system by accelerating wound healing and preventing sepsis and alopecia [8]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
