Phytochemical screening and phytoestrogens Profiling (HPLC, LC-MS) of Atrifem, a herbal source of phytoestrogens

Abstract

Background: Phytoestrogens are natural plant compounds that act like estrogen in the body. They are known to help with women's reproductive health, especially problems like irregular periods, hormone imbalance, and ovulation issues. While hormone therapy is used to manage menopause symptoms, phytoestrogen play vital role in the correction of ovulation irregularity, menstrual disorders, anovulation, ovarian dysfunction, and hormonal imbalances during the reproductive years. it can have serious side effects. This has increased interest in safer, natural options like herbal medicines. Methods: The present study investigated Atrifem, a proprietary Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation comprising key botanical ingredients including Putranjiva roxburghii, Asparagus racemosus, Saraca asoca, Cuminum cyminum, and Aloe vera. The objective was to evaluate its phytochemical composition and assess its phytoestrogenic potential. To achieve this, the methanolic extract of Atrifem was subjected to comprehensive phytochemical screening, followed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses to identify and characterize the presence of estrogenic compounds within the formulation. Results: The analysis revealed that Atrifem is a rich source of phytoestrogens, including enterodiol, genistein, resveratrol, trifoliol, methoxy coumestrol, vanillic acid 4-β-D-glucoside, and glycitein. These compounds are known to exhibit stimulatory effects on ovarian tissue, thereby supporting the regularization of endogenous hormonal secretion and the re-establishment of a rhythmic menstrual cycle. Conclusion: Phytoestrogens offer a natural and promising approach to help balance reproductive hormones. Atrifem has shown potential in addressing issues like anovulation and irregular menstrual cycles, depending on individual hormone levels. This study confirmed the presence of important plant-based compounds in Atrifem and successfully used HPLC and LC-MS techniques to detect and profile its phytoestrogens. The results provide scientific support for using Atrifem as a natural option for estrogen-related care, especially for easing symptoms during menopause.