Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), also known as Polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a common condition related to a hormonal imbalance in women of reproductive age group. It is characterized by high levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body. This hormone causes women to skip menstrual periods and makes it difficult to get pregnant. 

PCOS also causes hair growth on the face and body, acne, weight changes, infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and baldness. 

Every month, ovaries (primary female reproductive organ) produce eggs which are released during ovulation as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. In PCOS, eggs either are not produced or not released by the ovaries, leading to irregular and prolonged menstrual cycles, which is known as oligomenorrhea. Small fluid-filled sacs (follicles) develop in the ovaries leading to failure of release of the eggs. Irregular menstrual cycles lead to :

  • Infertility (not being able to get pregnant)

  • Development of fluid-filled sacs in the ovary (cysts)

PCOS is the main cause of infertility in women. Long-term health problems such as diabetes and heart disease also contribute to PCOS. 

Top 5 Home Remedies for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

1. Cinnamon Powder. Cinnamon comes from the bark of cinnamon trees. The extract has shown a significant effect on insulin resistance. Cinnamon also plays an important role in regulating menstruation for women with PCOS. 

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas to reduce your blood sugar levels by increasing its uptake in the cells. When you become resistant to insulin, glucose can’t enter the cells as easily which leads to an increase in the blood sugar levels.

How to take it - Add one teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a glass of hot water. Drink it daily for a few months. You can also include this spice in your diet by sprinkling cinnamon powder on your cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, cottage cheese, peanut butter sandwich, and other foods.

2. Flaxseeds. A potent amount of omega-3 and dietary fiber in flaxseeds helps in controlling the side effects of PCOS. Flaxseed also supplies an antioxidant known as lignan, which helps in regulating estrogen production in the body and hence, promotes fertility and regulates periods. 

How to take it - Mix one or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseeds in a glass of water and drink it daily. Also include ground flaxseeds in your diet regularly by adding them to your smoothies, soups, and salads.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar (AVC). It helps to control blood sugar and keeps your body from producing too much insulin. Less insulin means less testosterone. Plus, it will help you lose weight and improve your overall health. 

How to take it - Take 1 tsp apple cider vinegar with 1 glass of water before meals to improve insulin resistance.

4. Fenugreek (Methi). Fenugreek promotes glucose metabolism in the body and improves insulin resistance. This, in turn, helps balance your hormones. It may also help lower cholesterol, aid weight loss, and promote healthy heart functioning. 

How to take it - Soak three teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in water for six to eight hours. Take one teaspoon of the soaked seeds in the morning on an empty stomach. Also, take one teaspoon of the seeds about 10 minutes prior to lunch and one teaspoon prior to dinner.

5. Spearmint Tea. Spearmint tea can also help deal with PCOS due to its anti-androgenic properties. Drinking spearmint tea can help reduce hirsutism (excess body hair), by reducing free and total testosterone levels and increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels (hormones responsible for ovulation).

How to take it - Spearmint tea should be consumed twice a day to manage PCOS. Add 2-3 spearmint leaves in a cup of boiling water, allow it to boil for 5 mins, cool, and strain it. Drink it on regular basis for best results. 

The above-mentioned home remedies for PCOS helps in improving the symptoms of PCOS when taken on a regular basis. However, these remedies should not act as a replacement for the treatment used to improve the condition. 

Consult your gynaecologist before following any of the home remedies for the best effective results.


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.