The impact of herbal medicine in regulating intestinal flora on female reproductive disorders

Abstract

As an important part of the human intestinal microecology, the intestinal flora is involved in a number of physiological functions of the host. Several studies have shown that imbalance of intestinal flora and its regulation of the intestinal barrier, intestinal immune response, and intestinal flora metabolites (short-chain fatty acids and bile acids) can affect the development and regression of female reproductive disorders. Herbal medicine has unique advantages in the treatment of female reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and premature ovarian insufficiency, although its mechanism of action is still unclear. Therefore, based on the role of intestinal flora in the occurrence and development of female reproduction-related diseases, the progress of research on the diversity, structure and composition of intestinal flora and its metabolites regulated by botanical drugs, Chinese herbal formulas and active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines is reviewed, with a view to providing reference for the research on the mechanism of action of Chinese herbal medicines in the treatment of female reproductive disorders and further development of new herbal medicines.

The footprint of gut microbiota in gallbladder cancer: a mechanistic review

“…Most typically, bacteria actively metabolize cholesterol to various BAs at multiple locations (liver, gallbladder, intestine), with tremendous effects on host health ( Figure 2 ) ( Liu et al., 2022a ). As the major organic constituents of bile, BAs are a collective term for several steroidal acids ( Kiriyama and Nochi, 2021 ), and their microbial metabolism is a key point for GBC progression.…”

Compound Chinese medicine (F1) improves spleen deficiency diarrhea by protecting the intestinal mucosa and regulating the intestinal flora

“…The intestinal flora and the animal immune system have a mutually beneficial relationship, known as the ‘flora-host’ symbiotic relationship ( Zhou et al, 2020 ). The active involvement of the intestinal flora and its metabolites in maintaining the balance of the intestinal immune system has a positive impact on preventing and controlling intestinal diseases, and it also plays an essential role in regulating animal health ( Liu et al, 2022 ). When the dynamic balance of the intestinal microecosystem is disrupted, the intestinal flora becomes imbalanced, leading to various diseases both inside and outside the intestine ( Hu and Yang, 2022 ; Liu et al, 2022 ).…”

“…The active involvement of the intestinal flora and its metabolites in maintaining the balance of the intestinal immune system has a positive impact on preventing and controlling intestinal diseases, and it also plays an essential role in regulating animal health ( Liu et al, 2022 ). When the dynamic balance of the intestinal microecosystem is disrupted, the intestinal flora becomes imbalanced, leading to various diseases both inside and outside the intestine ( Hu and Yang, 2022 ; Liu et al, 2022 ). Traditional Chinese medicine has gained significant attention and research from experts and scholars due to its influence on the intestinal flora and its ability to regulate bodily functions ( Che et al, 2022 ; Li et al, 2022 ).…”

The Role of Regulatory Authorities in the Regulation and Control of Herbal Medicines: A Case Study of Nafdac

“…Standardization processes, quality assurance, and control mechanisms are crucial for enhancing the safety and effectiveness of herbal products (Kunle, 2012;Akindote et al, 2023;Okoro et al, 2024). Moreover, the regulation of herbal medicines extends to addressing issues such as the impact on intestinal flora and potential interactions with conventional medications (Liu et al, 2022). In conclusion, the role of regulatory authorities in the regulation and control of herbal medicines is pivotal in safeguarding public health, ensuring product quality, and promoting the rational use of traditional remedies.…”