Evaluate the Pharmacognostical Potential of GREWIA ASIATICA Fruit Extract in Female Rats with Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Diseases (PCOD) by Biochemical Evaluation

Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) is characterised by hormonal imbalance, ovarian dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances, often leading to infertility and obesity. The present study investigated the therapeutic potential of Grewia asiatica fruit extract in letrozole-induced PCOD in female rats. Ethanolic fruit extract was prepared and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, revealing the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, saponins, glycosides, steroids, and alkaloids. PCOD was induced in rats by oral administration of letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days, and treatment groups received either standard metformin (300 mg/kg) or G. asiatica extract (200 and 400 mg/kg). Parameters assessed included body weight, oestrous cyclicity, serum hormonal profile (LH, FSH, testosterone, progesterone), lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Letrozole induced significant weight gain, hyperandrogenism, disrupted oestrous cycle, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose homeostasis. Administration of G. asiatica extract demonstrated dose-dependent restoration of oestrous cyclicity, normalisation of hormonal and metabolic parameters, and reduction of body weight gain, comparable to the standard drug. The observed effects are attributed to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and endocrine-modulating activities of the bioactive phytoconstituents. These findings suggest that Grewia asiatica possesses significant therapeutic potential as a natural adjuvant for managing PCOD, targeting both reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions.