Abstract

HERBAL CONTRACEPTIVE: AN OVERVIEW

Kumud Bala*, Mahima Arya, Deepshikha Pandey Katare

ABSTRACT

Human fertility control is one of the major approaches which seem effective in controlling population. Many potential methods have been adopted to induce infertility including hormonal and chemical methods. Traditional use of medicinal plants and their extracts have become widely known among society for various diseases including fertility related problems. Considering women healthcare, it has become important to use herbal antifertility agents which can interfere with the natural procedure of reproduction in women. Modern research includes the use of various plant extracts having antifertility action in various ways. Numerous herbs have been tested for their contraceptive activity on different animal models. These herbal contraceptives are found to be ecofriendly, can be easily available and affordable even in rural areas. They are more effective but less potential than synthetic drugs. The effect of these drugs on the endocrine and reproductive system was studied. This review mainly deals with the profiles of plants having antifertility and antiovulatory action reported from year 1993-2013. As it is directed towards antiovulatory effect, so the regulation of female reproductive system, mechanism of action of medicinal plants, their effect, active ingredients and extraction procedures are also discussed here which will surely help in further research and practices.

Keywords: ecofriendly, antifertility, antiovulatory