Native Iranian Medicinal Plants with Anti-Vaginal Infection Properties: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Pharmacology
• Traditional Medicine

Background:

• Herbal remedies are increasingly recognized for their efficacy in treating infections.
• Vaginal infections represent a significant health concern globally.
• The therapeutic potential of medicinal plants is a growing area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and introduce Iranian medicinal plants with demonstrated efficacy against vaginal infections.
• To compile existing research on the use of these plants for treating vaginal infections.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of scientific literature was conducted.
• Searched databases included PubMed, Web of Science Direct, Scopus, Scientific Information Database, and Google Scholar.
• Keywords focused on 'medicinal plants', 'Iranian medicinal plants', 'vaginal infection', 'essential oils', and 'extracts' from 2000-2019.

Main Results:

• Numerous Iranian plants, including Stachys lavandulifolia, Thymus vulgaris, Origanum vulgare, and others, were identified as effective against vaginal infections.
• These plants possess antimicrobial properties attributed to their essential oils and extracts.
• A comprehensive list of 40 plant species with therapeutic applications for vaginal infections is presented.

Conclusions:

• Native Iranian plants exhibit significant antimicrobial properties beneficial for treating vaginal infections.
• These medicinal plants represent a viable and effective alternative to antibiotics.
• Further research is warranted to explore the full therapeutic potential of these natural agents.