The role of selected medicinal plants from Iranian traditional medicine for the treatment of fatigue in metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Background: Fatigue is a symptom of metabolic disorders such as metabolic syndrome, which is currently increasing in the world. There is no specific medication for fatigue, but in many cases, such as in metabolic disorders, it can be relieved by treating the underlying causes. Oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with fatigue and metabolic syndrome. Other mechanisms in metabolic syndrome are also involved in causing fatigue. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of selected medicinal plants from Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) in improving fatigue in patients with metabolic syndrome. Methods: ITM is one of the most ancient systems of medicine. In this article, we first explained fatigue, its types, and treatment from the perspective of ITM and then introduced a list of medicinal plants used in ITM to treat fatigue. Next, we reviewed the biological effects of these plants effective in treating the manifestations of the metabolic syndrome based on a search of electronic databases. Results: They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic activities. Among them, Matricaria chamomilla L., Laurus nobilis L., Origanum majorana L., Vitex agnus-castus L., Lawsonia inermis L., Anethum graveolens L., and Pistacia terebinthus L. improve the lipid profile and reduce dyslipidemia. Also, the antihypertensive effects of Matricaria chamomilla, Laurus nobilis, and Origanum majorana have been proven. Conclusion: These plants prevent fatigue and disease progression by countering oxidative stress and inflammation and affecting the properties of the metabolic syndrome.