Comparison of Foeniculum Vulgare versus metformin on insulin resistance and anthropometric indices of women with polycystic ovary, an open-label controlled trial study

Abstract

Co-occurrence of metabolic syndromes such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and obesity in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOs) women is common. Foeniculum Vulgare (Fennel) is a medicinal plant that renewing as an ancient remedy for women with reproductive and metabolic problems. The study seeks to compare the efficacy of fennel and metformin on the insulin resistance of PCOs women. 57 PCOs women with Insulin resistance under hypocaloric diet were randomly allocated to receive essential oil of fennel group (3 capsules 30 mg/day) or metformin group (500 mg/day) for three months. Insulin resistance markers HOMA (IR), Insulin sensitivity (QUICKI), and anthropometric indices before and after intervention were analyzed between two groups. No statistically significant differences were found in the HOMA (IR), QUICKI, BMI, and waist to hip ratio between the two groups after intervention. Fennel could not improve insulin resistance and anthropometric indices in comparison to metformin in women with polycystic ovary, however, the generalisability of these results is subject to certain limitations and need to be interpreted with caution. • Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel) have been used in traditional medicine in most countries. • Some pharmacological properties has been addressed for fennel such as hypoglycemic hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective. • Fennel also is known for promoting menstruation in women with estrogenic imbalance such as polycystic ovary. • The medicinal value of the fennel provides an area of interest for new clinical benefits.