Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Ethnomedicinal contraceptive plants and their role in natural reproductive health: an in-depth analysis with emphasis on traditional Chinese medicine
*Article not assigned to an issue yet
Ray Priyanka, Hazra Sucharita, Bag Rabishankar, Chakraborty Tamalika, Chatterjee Pritam
Review Articles | Published: 23 January, 2026
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Keywords: Antifertility, Chinese ethnomedicine, Medicinal plants, Natural contraceptives pharmacological processes, Herbal contraceptives
Abstract
Exploring safer, natural contraceptive methods is vital due to rising global population and health concerns. This review focuses on Chinese ethnomedicinal plants with antifertility properties, emphasizing their role as natural alternatives to synthetic contraceptives. Traditional systems of medicine provide a rich repository of fertility-regulating botanicals. Increasing concerns over hormonal imbalances, hypertension, cancer, and weight gain associated with synthetic contraceptives have led to a resurgence of interest in herbal methods, which are believed to have fewer side effects. A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The review focused on Chinese ethnomedicinal plants known for their antifertility effects, bioactive constituents, and mechanisms of action. Plants such as Gossypium herbaceum var., Butea monosperma, Embelia ribes, and Andrographis paniculata were highlighted for their roles in inhibiting ovulation, altering sperm function, and preventing embryo implantation. The findings illustrate that many ethnomedicinal plants have demonstrated significant antifertility potential in preclinical studies. Their pharmacological actions include anti-implantation, antiovulatory, and spermicidal effects. The review underscores the possibility of developing novel non-steroidal contraceptives from these botanicals. Additionally, they promote biodiversity conservation and offer culturally acceptable and sustainable healthcare alternatives. Herbal contraceptives, rooted in traditional knowledge, are gaining global interest. With nearly 80% of developing nations relying on medicinal plants, these natural options are becoming more relevant in reproductive health. Further clinical trials and safety evaluations are essential to integrate them into modern healthcare systems.
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Guru Nanak Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Kolkata, India