Researchers tested whether white kidney bean extract could help treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormone disorder affecting women’s fertility and metabolism. Using rats with PCOS, they found that high doses of the extract improved hormone levels, reduced insulin resistance, and repaired damage to the ovaries. The extract appeared to work by affecting a specific cellular pathway called Wnt signaling. While these results are promising, this research was done in animals, so scientists will need to test it in humans before recommending it as a treatment.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether white kidney bean extract could treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and how it might work in the body
  • Who participated: Laboratory rats that were given a drug to create PCOS-like symptoms, divided into groups receiving different doses of white kidney bean extract or no treatment
  • Key finding: Rats receiving high doses of white kidney bean extract showed significant improvements in hormone levels, insulin resistance, and ovarian damage compared to untreated PCOS rats
  • What it means for you: This research suggests white kidney bean extract might one day help treat PCOS, but it’s still in early stages. Human studies are needed before doctors could recommend it as a treatment. If you have PCOS, talk to your doctor before trying any new supplements.

The Research Details

Scientists created PCOS in laboratory rats using a drug called letrozole, which disrupts normal hormone production. They then divided the rats into groups: some received no treatment, while others received different doses of white kidney bean extract. The researchers measured multiple health markers including hormone levels, insulin function, body weight, and ovarian tissue damage. They also analyzed the genetic activity in ovarian tissue to understand how the extract might be working at a cellular level.

Using animal models allows researchers to test potential treatments safely and understand the biological mechanisms before considering human trials. This approach helps identify which doses might be effective and how the treatment works in the body, which is essential information for developing new therapies.

This is a controlled laboratory study with clear measurement of multiple health markers and genetic analysis. However, animal studies don’t always produce the same results in humans, so these findings are preliminary. The study appears well-designed with appropriate controls and multiple assessment methods, but human clinical trials would be needed to confirm these results apply to people.

What the Results Show

High-dose white kidney bean extract significantly improved multiple aspects of PCOS in the rats. Testosterone levels decreased to more normal ranges, and the ratio of two key hormones (LH and FSH) improved. The rats also showed better insulin sensitivity, meaning their bodies handled blood sugar more effectively. Body weight decreased, and fat deposits in organs were reduced. When researchers examined the ovaries under a microscope, they found that the extract reduced scarring (fibrosis) and cell death (apoptosis), helping repair the damage caused by PCOS.

The study found that medium and low doses of the extract had some beneficial effects, but the high dose was most effective. The extract also improved abnormal lipid (fat) levels in the blood, which are often problematic in PCOS. Genetic analysis showed that the extract changed how certain genes in the Wnt signaling pathway were expressed, suggesting this is one mechanism by which it may work.

PCOS is notoriously difficult to treat, with current options limited to hormone medications and lifestyle changes. This research adds to growing evidence that plant-based compounds may help regulate the hormonal and metabolic problems in PCOS. Previous studies have suggested various plant extracts might help, but this is one of the first to identify the specific cellular pathway involved.

This study was conducted entirely in rats, not humans, so results may not directly apply to people. The sample size and exact number of animals used weren’t specified in the abstract. The study doesn’t tell us whether the extract would be safe or effective in humans, what the right dose would be for people, or whether benefits would last long-term. More research, including human clinical trials, is necessary before this could become a recommended treatment.

The Bottom Line

This research is too early-stage to recommend white kidney bean extract as a PCOS treatment. Current evidence-based approaches include lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), weight management, and medications prescribed by doctors. If you’re interested in plant-based supplements for PCOS, discuss options with your healthcare provider before starting anything new.

Women with PCOS or those researching new treatment options should be aware of this research, but shouldn’t change their treatment based on it yet. Healthcare providers treating PCOS may find this interesting for future research directions. This doesn’t apply to people without PCOS.

Even if this research proves successful in humans, it typically takes 5-10 years of clinical trials before a new treatment becomes available. This study represents an early step in that process.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If you have PCOS and your doctor approves trying white kidney bean extract in the future, track hormone levels (testosterone, LH/FSH ratio) through regular blood tests every 3 months, along with insulin resistance markers and body weight weekly
  • Once human studies confirm safety and dosing, users could log daily white kidney bean extract intake alongside existing PCOS management strategies like diet, exercise, and medication adherence to see correlations with symptom improvements
  • Establish a baseline of current PCOS markers through your doctor, then if you try any new supplement in the future, retest the same markers every 3 months for at least 6 months to assess whether changes occur

This research was conducted in laboratory rats and has not been tested in humans. White kidney bean extract is not currently an approved medical treatment for PCOS. Do not start, stop, or change any PCOS treatment without consulting your healthcare provider. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have PCOS or are considering any new supplement, speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making changes to your treatment plan.