# Phytotherapeutic Intervention in Monosodium Glutamate-Induced Uterine Dysfunction: Efficacy of Lepidium sativum, Prunus armeniaca, Stachys palustris, and Solenostemma argel

## TL;DR

This study explores how four plant extracts may help treat uterine dysfunction in rats caused by monosodium glutamate, showing potential for natural fibroid treatments.

## Contribution

The study provides new preclinical evidence for the efficacy of Lepidium sativum and Stachys palustris in managing uterine fibroids.

## Key findings

- Lepidium sativum and Stachys palustris showed superior antioxidant activity, restoring key enzyme levels.
- These extracts reduced estrogen levels and improved histological outcomes like endometrial hyperplasia.
- Solenostemma argel and Prunus armeniaca had moderate effects compared to the other two.

## Abstract

Introduction: Uterine fibroids are benign tumors arising from uterine smooth muscle and significantly affect women’s health worldwide. While conventional treatments often involve hormonal therapies or invasive surgeries, these approaches are limited by cost, side effects, and fertility concerns. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo bioactivity of four medicinal plant extracts, Lepidium sativum, Prunus armeniaca, Solenostemma argel, and Stachys palustris, in ameliorating monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced uterine changes in rats, providing preliminary preclinical evidence. Methods: The extracts were evaluated for their flavonoid and total phenolic contents, antioxidant capacity, and hormonal modulatory effects. Female Wistar rats were treated with monosodium glutamate to induce uterine changes, followed by interventions with herbal extracts. Outcomes were evaluated via biochemical, hormonal, and histological analyses. Results: Among the four extracts, Lepidium sativum and Stachys palustris showed superior antioxidant activity, restoring catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase levels. These extracts also significantly reduced estrogen levels and estrogen receptor expression, correlating with improved histological outcomes, including reduced endometrial hyperplasia and myometrial thickness. Solenostemma argel and Prunus armeniaca exhibited moderate effects. Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of Lepidium sativum and Stachys palustris as natural therapeutic agents for fibroid management through antioxidant activity and hormonal modulation. Future research should focus on clinical validation to translate these findings into effective treatments.