Broccoli and Other Botanicals in the Prevention and Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome

Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) consists of a range of physical, mental, and behavioral changes that can affect women at various stages during their menstrual cycle. These changes are caused by fluctuations in hormone levels, which play a significant role in PMS. Diet, along with other practices, can help reduce the symptoms related to PMS. Even small dietary changes like increased intake of certain foods and less caffeine consumption may help to mitigate or regulate PMS symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate broccoli and various phytoconstituents from plants for the prevention and treatment of PMS in women of reproductive age. It was found that certain plant-based foods and some bioactive compounds can mimic the body's natural estrogen and, therefore, may contribute to reproductive health issues. The beneficial effects of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) and its main phytoconstituents have been evaluated in the case of PMS. Various flavonoids and sulfur-containing compounds were regarded as the key bioactive compounds present in broccoli. It is also characterized by a balanced content of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Glucosinolates are special secondary metabolites of broccoli as well as other cruciferous plants that, upon hydrolysis by myrosinase, can generate a variety of essential biologically active compounds, of which sulforaphane is a potent therapeutic compound. Broccoli is the ideal material for obtaining sulforaphane among the vegetables of the Brassicaceae family, and, therefore, its consumption is increasing. Generally, broccoli can act as a powerful agent to mitigate PMS symptoms as it can correct the hormonal balance in the female body. Some medicinal plants containing phytoestrogens also play an important role in relieving PMS.