Sunnah Foods for the treatment of Infertility in women with PCOS: A Literature Review
Main Article Content
Abstract
Infertility is a global health issue that is on the rise. The leading cause of female infertility, PCOS, is considered incur able and lifelong in conventional medicine. Challenging and delayed diagnosis, ineffective treatment modalities and long-term treatment has left both physicians and patients disgruntled. Islamically however, it is believed that every illness has a cure. This paper is therefore aimed at reviewing the effect of Sunnah foods in treating infertility among patients with PCOS. The study will also provide future recommendation for researchers and practitioners.
Downloads
Article Details
References
Liu, C., Wu, J., Gu, J., & Duan, H. (2025). Responses of non-structural carbohydrate and carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus chemometrics in needles of early shaded *Pinus yunnanensis* seedlings to drought. *BMC Plant Biology, 25*, 270. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-05049-4](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-05049-4) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Ya’u, D. S., Abdul Hamid, H. B., Md Pauzi, S. F. B., & Sulaiman, N. (2024). Sunnah foods for the treatment of infertility in women with PCOS: A literature review. *Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 20*(2), 300–311. [https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.20.2.39](https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.20.2.39) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
World Health Organization. (2022). Infertility. *World Health Organization*. Retrieved from [https://www.who.int/health-topics/infertility](https://www.who.int/health-topics/infertility) [Google Scholar]
Barbieri, R. L. (2019). Female infertility. In *Yen and Jaffe’s reproductive endocrinology* (pp. 556–581). Elsevier. [https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-47912-7.00022-6](https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-47912-7.00022-6) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Ehrmann, D. A., Barnes, R. B., & Rosenfield, R. L. (1995). Polycystic ovary syndrome as a form of functional ovarian hyperandrogenism due to dysregulation of androgen secretion. *Endocrine Reviews, 16*(3), 322–353. [https://doi.org/10.1210/edrv-16-3-322](https://doi.org/10.1210/edrv-16-3-322) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Fraser, I. S., & Kovacs, G. (2004). Current recommendations for the diagnostic evaluation and follow-up of patients presenting with symptomatic polycystic ovary syndrome. *Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 18*(5), 813–823. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2004.06.009](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2004.06.009) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Moran, L., Gibson-Helm, M., Teede, H., & Deeks, A. (2010). Polycystic ovary syndrome: a biopsychosocial understanding in young women to improve knowledge and treatment options. *Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 31*(1), 24–31. [https://doi.org/10.3109/01674820903477593](https://doi.org/10.3109/01674820903477593) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Sills, E. S., Perloe, M., Tucker, M. J., Kaplan, C. R., Genton, M. G., & Schattman, G. L. (2001). Diagnostic and treatment characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome: descriptive measurements of patient perception and awareness from 657 confidential self-reports. *BMC Women's Health, 1*(1), 3. [https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6874-1-3](https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6874-1-3) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Hoeger, K. M., Dokras, A., & Piltonen, T. (2021). Update on PCOS: consequences, challenges, and guiding treatment. *Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 106*(3), e1071–e1083. [https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgaa839](https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgaa839) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Kerchner, A., Lester, W., Stuart, S. P., & Dokras, A. (2009). Risk of depression and other mental health disorders in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a longitudinal study. *Fertility and Sterility, 91*(1), 207–212. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.11.022](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.11.022) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Isma’il, B. M., & Khan, M. M. (1997). *The translation of the meanings of Sahih al-Bukhari: Arabic-English.* Riyadh: Darussalam. [Google Scholar]
Wolf, W. M., Wattick, R. A., Kinkade, O. N., & Olfert, M. D. (2018). Geographical prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome as determined by region and race/ethnicity. *International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15*(11), 2589. [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112589](https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112589) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Zeng, L. H., Rana, S., Hussain, L., Asif, M., Mehmood, M. H., Imran, I., Younas, A., Mahdy, A., Al-Joufi, F. A., & Abed, S. N. (2022). Polycystic ovary syndrome: a disorder of reproductive age, its pathogenesis, and a discussion on the emerging role of herbal remedies. *Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13*, 874914. [https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.874914](https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.874914) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Carmina, E., & Lobo, R. A. (1999). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Arguably the most common endocrinopathy is associated with significant morbidity in women. *Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 84*(6), 1897–1899. [https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.84.6.5803](https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.84.6.5803) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Palomba, S., Daolio, J., & La Sala, G. B. (2017). Oocyte competence in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. *Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism, 28*(3), 186–198. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tem.2016.11.008](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tem.2016.11.008) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Dewailly, D., Gronier, H., Poncelet, E., Robin, G., Leroy, M., Pigny, P., Duhamel, A., & Catteau-Jonard, S. (2011). Diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Revisiting the threshold values of follicle count on ultrasound and of the serum AMH level for the definition of polycystic ovaries. *Human Reproduction, 26*(11), 3123–3129. [https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/der297](https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/der297) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Kicińska, A. M., Maksym, R. B., Zabielska-Kaczorowska, M. A., Stachowska, A., & Babińska, A. (2023). Immunological and metabolic causes of infertility in polycystic ovary syndrome. *Biomedicines, 11*(6), 1567. [https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061567](https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061567) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Ennab, F., & Atiomo, W. (2023). Obesity and female infertility. *Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 89*, 102336. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102336](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102336) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Dunne, N., & Slater, W. (2006). *The natural diet solution for PCOS and infertility: How to manage polycystic ovary syndrome naturally.* Seattle, WA: Health Solutions Plus. [Google Scholar]
Elsheikh, M., & Murphy, C. (2008). *Polycystic ovary syndrome.* Oxford University Press. [Google Scholar]
Witchel, S. F., Teede, H. J., & Peña, A. S. (2020). Curtailing PCOS. *Pediatric Research, 87*(2), 353–361. [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-019-0615-1](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-019-0615-1) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Azziz, R., Nestler, J. E., & Dewailly, D. (2006). *Androgen excess disorders in women: Polycystic ovary syndrome and other disorders.* Humana Press. [https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-179-6](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-179-6) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Bevilacqua, A., Dragotto, J., Giuliani, A., & Bizzarri, M. (2019). Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol (40:1) reverse histological and functional features of polycystic ovary syndrome in a mouse model. *Journal of Cellular Physiology, 234*(6), 9387–9398. [https://doi.org/10.1002/jcp.27623](https://doi.org/10.1002/jcp.27623) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Goswami, P. K., Khale, A., & Ogale, S. (2012). Natural remedies for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): a review. *International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Phytopharmacological Research, 1*(6), 396–402. [Google Scholar]
Sirmans, S. M., & Pate, K. A. (2013). Epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. *Clinical Epidemiology, 6*, 1–13. [https://doi.org/10.2147/CLEP.S37559](https://doi.org/10.2147/CLEP.S37559) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Kubota, T. (2013). Update in polycystic ovary syndrome: New criteria of diagnosis and treatment in Japan. *Reproductive Medicine and Biology, 12*(3), 71–77. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s12522-013-0145-1](https://doi.org/10.1007/s12522-013-0145-1) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Afefy, N. A., Ebrahium, A., & Elrehim, A. (2019). Comparing the effectiveness of herbal remedies and lifestyle modification on minimizing polycystic ovarian syndrome symptoms. *Journal of Indian Dental Research, 30*(3), 431–436. [Google Scholar]
Bouchoucha, M., Uzzan, B., & Cohen, R. (2011). Metformin and digestive disorders. *Diabetes & Metabolism, 37*(2), 90–96. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabet.2010.11.002](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabet.2010.11.002) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Tshzmachyan, R., & Hambartsoumian, E. (2020). The role of Letrozole in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in patients at high risk to develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): A prospective randomized controlled pilot study. *Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction, 49*(2), 101643. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.101643](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.101643) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Wild, R. A. (2002). Long-term health consequences of PCOS. *Human Reproduction Update, 8*(3), 231–241. [https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/8.3.231](https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/8.3.231) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Farshchi, H., Rane, A., Love, A., & Kennedy, R. L. (2007). Diet and nutrition in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): pointers for nutritional management. *Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 27*(8), 762–773. [https://doi.org/10.1080/01443610701667338](https://doi.org/10.1080/01443610701667338) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Tyson, C. C., Nwankwo, C., Lin, P. H., & Svetkey, L. P. (2012). The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating pattern in special populations. *Current Hypertension Reports, 14*(5), 388–396. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-012-0284-8](https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-012-0284-8) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Azadi-Yazdi, M., Karimi-Zarchi, M., Salehi-Abargouei, A., Fallahzadeh, H., & Nadjarzadeh, A. (2016). Effects of dietary approach to stop hypertension diet on androgens, antioxidant status, and body composition in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: A randomised controlled trial. *Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 30*(3), 275–283. [https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12433](https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12433) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Dashti, S., Abdul Hamid, H., & Mohamad Saini, S. (2022). A randomised controlled trial on the effects of a structural education module among women with polycystic ovarian syndrome on nutrition and physical activity changes. *BMC Women's Health, 22*(1), 1–11. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-022-01861-4](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-022-01861-4) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Qazi, M. A., & El-Dabbas, M. S. (1979). *A concise dictionary of Islamic terms.* Lahore, Pakistan: Kazi Publications. [Google Scholar]
Yusuf, S. M. (1962). The Sunnah: Its place in Islam. *Islamic Studies, 1*(4), 41–50. Retrieved from [https://www.jstor.org/stable/20832656](https://www.jstor.org/stable/20832656) [Google Scholar]
Brown, R. (1996). *Rethinking tradition in modern Islamic thought.* Cambridge University Press. [Google Scholar]
Nagamia, H. F. (2010). Prophetic medicine: ‘A holistic approach to medicine’. *Journal of the Islamic Medical Association of North America, 42*(1). [https://doi.org/10.5915/42-1-4736](https://doi.org/10.5915/42-1-4736) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Sheikh, B. Y. (2016). The role of prophetic medicine in the management of diabetes mellitus: A review of literature. *Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences, 11*(4), 339–352. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtumed.2015.12.002](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtumed.2015.12.002) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya. (2003). *Zaad al-Ma’ad.* Translated by Muhammad A. Hafeez. Riyadh: Dar-us-Salam Publishers. [Google Scholar]
Sheikh, B. Y., Sarker, M. M., Kamarudin, M. N., & Ismail, A. (2017). Prophetic medicine as potential functional food elements in the intervention of cancer: A review. *Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 95*, 614–648. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2017.08.043](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2017.08.043) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Loukas, M., Saad, Y., Tubbs, R. S., & Shoja, M. M. (2010). The heart and cardiovascular system in the Qur’an and Hadeeth. *International Journal of Cardiology, 140*, 19–23. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2009.05.011](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2009.05.011) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Benazzouz-Smail, L., Achat, S., Brahmi, F., Bachir-Bey, M., Arab, R., Lorenzo, J. M., Benbouriche, A., Boudiab, K., Hauchard, D., Boulekbache, L., & Madani, K. (2023). Biological properties, phenolic profile, and botanical aspect of *Nigella sativa* L. and *Nigella damascena* L. seeds: A comparative study. *Molecules, 28*(2), 571. [https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28020571](https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28020571) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Wani, J. A., Tsagkaris, C., Majid, S., Ganie, M. A., Akhter, R., Ahmad, S. B., Ovais, S., Khan, M. S., & Wani, H. A. (2022). Therapeutic effects of *Nigella sativa* on hormonal dysfunctions. In *Black Seeds (Nigella sativa)* (pp. 217–238). Elsevier. [https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-824462-3.00001-9](https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-824462-3.00001-9) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Naeimi, S. A., Hajimehdipoor, H., & Saber, S. (2020). Comparing the effect of *Nigella sativa* oil soft gel and placebo on oligomenorrhea, amenorrhea, and laboratory characteristics in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome: A randomized clinical trial. *Research Journal of Pharmacognosy, 7*(1), 49–59. [https://doi.org/10.22127/RJP.2019.206178.1530](https://doi.org/10.22127/RJP.2019.206178.1530) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Nafiu, A. B., Alimi, S., Babalola, A., Ogunlade, A. T., Muhammad, F. D., Abioye, A. R., Oyewole, L. A., Akinola, O., Olayemi, J. O., Amin, A., & Abdulmajeed, W. I. (2019). Anti-androgenic and insulin-sensitizing actions of *Nigella sativa* oil improve polycystic ovary and associated dyslipidemia and redox disturbances. *Journal of Complementary Medicine Research, 10*(4), 186–199. [https://doi.org/10.5455/jcmr.20190613045154](https://doi.org/10.5455/jcmr.20190613045154) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Javanshir, S. T., Yaghmaei, P., & Hajebrahimi, Z. (2018). Thymoquinone ameliorates some endocrine parameters and histological alterations in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome. *International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine, 16*(4), 275. [Google Scholar]
Arif, M., Thakur, S. C., & Datta, K. (2016). Implication of thymoquinone as a remedy for polycystic ovary in rat. *Pharmaceutical Biology, 54*(4), 674–685. [https://doi.org/10.3109/13880209.2015.1072565](https://doi.org/10.3109/13880209.2015.1072565) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Shirsath, A., Aundhakar, N., & Kamble, P. (2015). Study of oxidative stress and antioxidant levels in polycystic ovarian syndrome. *International Journal of Healthcare and Biomedical Research, 3*(4), 16–24. [Google Scholar]
Blagojevic, I. P., Ignjatovic, S., Macut, D., Kotur-Stevuljevic, J., Bozic-Antic, I., Vekic, J., Bjekic-Macut, J., Kastratovic-Kotlica, B., Andric, Z., & Ilic, D. (2018). Evaluation of a summary score for dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation (the DOI score) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and its relationship with obesity. *Journal of Medical Biochemistry, 37*(4), 1–11. [https://doi.org/10.2478/jomb-2018-0008](https://doi.org/10.2478/jomb-2018-0008) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Heshmati, J., & Nemati, N. (2015). Effects of black seed (*Nigella sativa*) on metabolic parameters in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review. *Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 23*(2), 275–282. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2015.01.013](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2015.01.013) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Ashraf, S. S., Rao, M. V., Kaneez, F. S., Qadri, S., Al-Marzouqi, A. H., Chandranath, I. S., & Adem, A. (2011). *Nigella sativa* extract as a potent antioxidant for petrochemical-induced oxidative stress. *Journal of Chromatographic Science, 49*(4), 321–326. [https://doi.org/10.1093/chrsci/49.4.321](https://doi.org/10.1093/chrsci/49.4.321) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Latiff, L. A., Dollah, M. A., Hanachi, P., & Rahman, S. A. (2011). A randomized control trial on the effect of black seeds (*Nigella sativa*) on climacteric symptoms and quality of life of perimenopausal women in Rawang, Selangor, Malaysia. *Clinical Biochemistry, 44*(13), 20–21. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.08.060](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.08.060) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Naftolin, F., & Stanburg, M. G. (2002). Phytoestrogens: Are they really estrogen mimics? *Fertility and Sterility, 77*(1), 15–17. [https://doi.org/10.1016/S0015-0282(01)02006-4](https://doi.org/10.1016/S0015-0282%2801%2902006-4) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Parhizkar, S., Latif, L. A., Sabariah, A. R., & Dollah, M. A. (2011). Evaluation of estrogen-like activity of *Nigella sativa* in ovariectomized rats. *African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 5*(8), 1006–1011. [https://doi.org/10.5897/AJPP10.257](https://doi.org/10.5897/AJPP10.257) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Suzuki, K. M., Isohama, Y., Maruyama, H., Yamada, Y., Narita, Y., Ohta, S., Araki, Y., Miyata, T., & Mishima, S. (2008). Estrogenic activities of fatty acids and a sterol isolated from royal jelly. *Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 5*(3), 295–302. [https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nem036](https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nem036) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Ibrahim, R. M., Hamdan, N. S., Mahmud, R., Imam, M. U., Saini, S. M., Rashid, S. N., et al. (2014). A randomized controlled trial on hypolipidemic effects of *Nigella sativa* seeds powder in menopausal women. *Journal of Translational Medicine, 12*, 82. [https://doi.org/10.1186/1479-5876-12-82](https://doi.org/10.1186/1479-5876-12-82) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Al-Naqeep, G., Ismail, M., & Allaudin, Z. (2009). Regulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase gene expression by thymoquinone-rich fraction and thymoquinone in HepG2 cells. *Journal of Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, 2*(3–4), 163–172. [https://doi.org/10.1159/000227264](https://doi.org/10.1159/000227264) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Burits, M., & Bucar, F. (2000). Antioxidant activity of *Nigella sativa* essential oil. *Phytotherapy Research, 14*(5), 323–328. [https://doi.org/10.1002/1099-1573(200008)14:5](https://doi.org/10.1002/1099-1573%28200008%2914:5)<323::AID-PTR621>3.0.CO;2-Q [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
El-Dakhakhny, M., Mady, N. I., & Halim, M. A. (2000). *Nigella sativa* L. oil protects against induced hepatotoxicity and improves serum lipid profile in rats. *Arzneimittelforschung, 50*(9), 832–836. [https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0031-1300297](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0031-1300297) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Akash, M. S., Rehman, K., Rasool, F., Sethi, A., Abrar, M. A., Irshad, A., Abid, A., & Murtaza, G. (2011). Alternate therapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with *Nigella* (Ranunculaceae). *Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 5*(31), 6885–6891. [https://doi.org/10.5897/JMPR11.1425](https://doi.org/10.5897/JMPR11.1425) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Bogdanov, S., Jurendic, T., Sieber, R., & Gallmann, P. (2008). Honey for nutrition and health: A review. *Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 27*(6), 677–689. [https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2008.10719745](https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2008.10719745) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Miguel, M., Antunes, M., & Faleiro, M. (2017). Honey as a complementary medicine. *Integrative Medicine Insights, 12*, 1178633717702869. [https://doi.org/10.1177/1178633717702869](https://doi.org/10.1177/1178633717702869) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Ullah, A., Aldakheel, F. M., Anjum, S. I., Raza, G., Khan, S. A., & Gajger, I. T. (2022). Pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of honey bee venom. *Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 30*(11), 1742–1754. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsps.2022.11.008](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsps.2022.11.008) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Kamal, D. A. M., Ibrahim, S. F., Ugusman, A., & Mokhtar, M. H. (2022). Kelulut honey ameliorates oestrus cycle, hormonal profiles, and oxidative stress in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome rats. *Antioxidants, 11*(10), 1879. [https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11101879](https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11101879) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Cheepa, F. F., Liu, H., & Zhao, G. (2022). The natural cryoprotectant honey for fertility cryopreservation. *Bioengineering, 9*(3), 88. [https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9030088](https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9030088) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Nervey, D., Igbigbi, P., & Avwioro, G. (2012). The influence of excessive and prolonged ingestion of honey on sex hormones and prostate-specific antigen in adult male Wistar rats. *Medical Science International Medical Journal, 1*, 161–170. [Google Scholar]
Erejuwa, O. O., Sulaiman, S. A., & Wahab, M. S. (2014). Effects of honey and its mechanisms of action on the development and progression of cancer. *Molecules, 19*(2), 2497–2522. [https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules19022497](https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules19022497) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Tsiapara, A. V., Jaakkola, M., Chinou, I., Graikou, K., Tolonen, T., Virtanen, V., & Moutsatsou, P. (2009). Bioactivity of Greek honey extracts on breast cancer (MCF-7), prostate cancer (PC-3), and endometrial cancer (Ishikawa) cells: Profile analysis of extracts. *Food Chemistry, 116*(3), 702–708. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2009.03.024](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2009.03.024) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Bambang, N., Ikhsan, M., & Sukri, N. (2018). Rheological properties of honey and its application on honey flow simulation through vertical tube. *IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 334*, 012041. [https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/334/1/012041](https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/334/1/012041) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Sopade, P., Halley, P., Bhandari, B., D’Arcy, B., Doebler, C., & Caffin, N. (2003). Application of the Williams–Landel–Ferry model to the viscosity–temperature relationship of Australian honeys. *Journal of Food Engineering, 56*(1), 67–75. [https://doi.org/10.1016/S0260-8774(02)00149-8](https://doi.org/10.1016/S0260-8774%2802%2900149-8) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Ahmed, J., Prabhu, S., Raghavan, G., & Ngadi, M. (2007). Physico-chemical, rheological, calorimetric, and dielectric behavior of selected Indian honey. *Journal of Food Engineering, 79*(4), 1207–1213. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2006.04.048](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2006.04.048) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Juszczak, L., & Fortuna, T. (2006). Rheology of selected Polish honeys. *Journal of Food Engineering, 75*(1), 43–49. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2005.03.049](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2005.03.049) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Bakier, S., Miastkowski, K., & Bakoniuk, J. R. (2016). Rheological properties of some honeys in liquefied and crystallised states. *Journal of Apicultural Science, 60*(2), 153–166. [https://doi.org/10.1515/JAS-2016-0026](https://doi.org/10.1515/JAS-2016-0026) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Bhandari, B., D’Arcy, B., & Chow, S. (1999). Rheology of selected Australian honeys. *Journal of Food Engineering, 41*(1), 65–68. [https://doi.org/10.1016/S0260-8774(99)00078-3](https://doi.org/10.1016/S0260-8774%2899%2900078-3) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Lazaridou, A., Biliaderis, C. G., Bacandritsos, N., & Sabatini, A. G. (2004). Composition, thermal, and rheological behaviour of selected Greek honeys. *Journal of Food Engineering, 64*(1), 9–21. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2003.09.007](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2003.09.007) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Gül, A., & Pehlivan, T. (2018). Antioxidant activities of some monofloral honey types produced across Turkey. *Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 25*(6), 1056–1065. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2018.02.011](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2018.02.011) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Khalafi, R., Goli, S. A. H., & Behjatian, M. (2016). Characterization and classification of several monofloral Iranian honeys based on physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity. *International Journal of Food Properties, 19*(5), 1065–1079. [https://doi.org/10.1080/10942912.2015.1055360](https://doi.org/10.1080/10942912.2015.1055360) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Pisoschi, A. M., & Pop, A. (2015). The role of antioxidants in the chemistry of oxidative stress: A review. *European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 97*, 55–74. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.04.040](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.04.040) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Grune, T. (2005). *Free radicals and diseases: Gene expression, cellular metabolism and pathophysiology.* IOS Press. [Google Scholar]
Milner, J. A., Romagnolo, D. F., Connor, J., & Lee, S. (2010). *Bioactive compounds and cancer.* Springer, Humana Press. [https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60761-627-6](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60761-627-6) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Vayalil, P. K. (2012). Date fruits (*Phoenix dactylifera* Linn): An emerging medicinal food. *Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 52*(3), 249–271. [https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2010.499824](https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2010.499824) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Tang, Z. X., Shi, L. E., & Aleid, S. M. (2013). Date fruit: Chemical composition, nutritional and medicinal values, and products. *Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 93*(10), 2351–2361. [https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.6154](https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.6154) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Koser, H. N., Mubarak, R., Jaffar, H. M., Rizwan, B., Mubashar, H., Kousar, S., Sultan, H., Abbas, R., Tasleem, F., & Islam, Z. (2022). A review on nutritional composition of *Phoenix dactylifera* L. and its pharmacological functions. *Pakistan BioMed Journal, 5*(1), 5–9. [https://doi.org/10.54393/pbmj.v5i1.121](https://doi.org/10.54393/pbmj.v5i1.121) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
El-Wahed, A., Mahfouz, R., & Nasr, A. A. A. (2022). Effects of date palm pollen on women with the polycystic ovarian syndrome. *Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine, 89*(1), 4622–4625. [https://doi.org/10.21608/ejhm.2022.259120](https://doi.org/10.21608/ejhm.2022.259120) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Karimi Jashni, H., Kargar Jahromi, H., & Bagheri, Z. (2016). The effect of palm pollen extract on polycystic ovary syndrome (POS) in rats. *International Journal of Medical Research & Health Sciences, 5*(5), 317–321. [Google Scholar]
Khan, F., Ahmed, F., Pushparaj, P. N., Abuzenadah, A., Kumosani, T., Barbour, E., & Gauthaman, K. (2016). Ajwa date (*Phoenix dactylifera* L.) extract inhibits human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cells *in vitro* by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. *PLoS ONE, 11*(7), e0158963. [https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0158963](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0158963) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Mirza, M. B., Elkady, A. I., Al-Attar, A. M., Syed, F. Q., Mohammed, F. A., & Hakeem, K. R. (2018). Induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by ethyl acetate fraction of *Phoenix dactylifera* L. (Ajwa dates) in prostate cancer cells. *Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 218*, 35–44. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2018.02.030](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2018.02.030) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Elhemeidy, R. M. M., Lyrawati, D., & Widjajanto, E. (2018). Date fruit extract (*Phoenix dactylifera*, Ajwa) modulates NK cells and TNF-alpha in DMBA-induced mammary cancer Sprague-Dawley rats. *Journal of Tropical Life Science, 8*(3). [https://doi.org/10.36108/pajols/1202/50.0160](https://doi.org/10.36108/pajols/1202/50.0160) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Majah, I. (1952). *Sunan Ibn Majah.* Beirut: Darul Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. [Google Scholar]
Boskou, D. (1996). History and characteristics of the olive tree. In D. Boskou (Ed.), *Olive oil chemistry and technology.* Champaign, IL: American Oil Chemists’ Society Press. [https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003040217](https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003040217) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Jimenez-Lopez, C., Carpena, M., Lourenço-Lopes, C., Gallardo-Gomez, M., Lorenzo, J. M., Barba, F. J., Prieto, M. A., & Simal-Gandara, J. (2020). Bioactive compounds and quality of extra virgin olive oil. *Foods, 9*(8), 1014. [https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9081014](https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9081014) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Egba, S. I., Udom, I. D., & Okonkwo, C. O. (2014). Comparative effect of oral administration of some dietary lipids on fertility hormones of female Wistar albino rats. *Global Journal of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, 9*(1), 24–29. [https://doi.org/10.5829/idosi.gjbb.2014.9.1.8399](https://doi.org/10.5829/idosi.gjbb.2014.9.1.8399) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Moghissi, K. S. (1990). Gonadotropin releasing hormones: Clinical applications in gynecology. *Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 35*(12), 1097–1107. [Google Scholar]
Gopal, M., Duntley, S., Uhles, M., & Attarian, H. (2002). The role of obesity in the increased prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. *Sleep Medicine, 3*(5), 401–404. [https://doi.org/10.1016/s1389-9457(02)00033-3](https://doi.org/10.1016/s1389-9457%2802%2900033-3) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Teede, H. J., Joham, A. E., Paul, E., Moran, L. J., Loxton, D., Jolley, D., & Lombard, C. (2013). Longitudinal weight gain in women identified with polycystic ovary syndrome: Results of an observational study in young women. *Obesity, 21*(8), 1526–1532. [https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20213](https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20213) [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]