A Herbal Extract Being Studied for PCOS Support
- Dr. H. Singh, ND
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly called PCOS, affects millions of women and is one of the most common hormonal conditions impacting reproductive health.
Many individuals with PCOS experience irregular cycles, hormonal imbalances, challenges with ovulation, and difficulty conceiving. Because of the complex nature of PCOS, researchers continue to explore different approaches that may help support reproductive health alongside conventional care.
A recently published randomized clinical trial investigated whether a traditional herbal extract called Shatavari may support certain reproductive parameters in women with PCOS.
This study offers interesting early insights into how this botanical medicine may influence ovarian and uterine health and potentially support fertility.
What Is Shatavari?
Shatavari, scientifically known as Asparagus racemosus, is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to support women's reproductive health.
Historically it has been used as a reproductive tonic and has been studied for potential effects on:
• hormonal balance
• ovarian function
• Stress reduction and libido support
• reproductive tissue health
Researchers have recently begun evaluating this herb using modern clinical trials.
A newly published randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated for its benefits in supporting fertility and PCOS treatment and found very interesting results.
Improved Endometrial Thickness
Women taking the herbal extract experienced a statistically significant increase in endometrial thickness compared with the placebo group. Endometrial thickness refers to the development of the uterine lining, which plays an important role in implantation and early pregnancy.
Normalization of Follicle Count
The study also found a reduction in follicle count on ultrasound in participants receiving the herbal extract. Women with PCOS often have a high number of small follicles that do not mature normally. A reduction in follicle count may reflect improved ovarian follicular dynamics.
Lower Perceived Stress
Participants taking the extract also reported a reduction in perceived psychological stress scores. Stress can influence hormonal signalling, reproductive health and of course emotional well-being, so this finding may be relevant for individuals navigating PCOS.
No Significant Hormonal Changes
Interestingly, the study did not observe significant changes in reproductive hormones, including:
• estrogen
• testosterone
• LH
• FSH
• progesterone
Body weight and metabolic markers also remained similar between groups.
Safety of Shatavari in this Study
The supplement was generally well tolerated over the 12 week study period.
No serious adverse events were reported, and the mild symptoms that occurred were not attributed to the herbal extract. However, use of any herbal formulas should be discussed with your healthcare team before using to review safety, risk of any herb-to-drug interactions, contraindications and dosing.
Important Limitations of this Study
Although the findings are interesting, several important limitations should be considered.
First, this was a relatively small study with only about seventy participants. Second, the trial lasted only 12 weeks, which is a short timeframe when evaluating conditions like PCOS. Most importantly, the study did not evaluate clinical fertility outcomes such as ovulation rates or pregnancy rates. Because of this, the results should be interpreted as early research rather than definitive treatment guidance. Larger studies with longer follow up will be needed to determine whether these changes translate into meaningful improvements in reproductive outcomes.
What This Means for Individuals With PCOS
Research into botanical medicines continues to expand, and some herbal compounds may influence reproductive physiology through effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, or hormonal signalling.
Shatavari is one example of a traditional botanical that is now being explored through modern clinical research.
However, PCOS is a complex condition that often requires a personalized and comprehensive approach, including nutrition, lifestyle factors, metabolic health, and when appropriate medical or fertility treatments.
No single supplement should be viewed as a universal solution.
Supporting PCOS and Fertility
If you are navigating PCOS and are trying to conceive, it can be helpful to work with a practitioner who can assess the many factors that may influence ovulation, hormone balance, and uterine health.
Treatment plans may include:
• targeted supplements based on evidence
• metabolic support
• cycle regulation
• collaboration with fertility clinics when appropriate
Each person's physiology and goals are different, so treatment strategies should be individualized.
Learn More About Fertility Support
If you would like to learn more about evidence informed approaches to fertility and reproductive health, you can join my newsletter where I regularly share research updates, educational resources, and practical insights. You can join by clicking here.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your Naturopathic Doctor before starting any new supplement, especially during fertility treatments like IVF.
About Dr. H. Singh, ND
Dr. H. Singh is a Fertility Naturopath based in Ottawa with over ten years of experience focusing exclusively on reproductive health.
He works with individuals and couples across Ontario and Quebec, supporting patients trying to conceive naturally or alongside treatments such as IUI and IVF.
Care focuses on evidence informed strategies to support egg quality, sperm health, hormonal balance, implantation, and early pregnancy.
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