Resveratrol & PCOS: Can This Natural Compound Help Balance Hormones?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects many women of reproductive age, bringing with it hormonal imbalances, irregular cycles, acne, hirsutism, and challenges with fertility. While conventional treatments are often effective, there’s growing curiosity about natural approaches to support hormone balance. One compound receiving attention is resveratrol—a plant polyphenol also found in grapes and red wine.

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials asked an important question: Can resveratrol really help women with PCOS? Here’s what the latest research reveals.

What Did Researchers Study?

• Design: A meta-analysis pooling data from four randomized controlled trials.
• Participants: 218 women diagnosed with PCOS.
• Focus: The effects of resveratrol supplementation on hormone levels, metabolic health, and fertility outcomes.

Key Findings

The analysis suggests that resveratrol may offer real benefits:

• Lower Testosterone: Resveratrol supplementation significantly reduced total testosterone levels.
• Reduced DHEAS: It also lowered dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), another androgen commonly elevated in PCOS.
• Decreased LH: Luteinizing hormone (LH), which is often imbalanced in PCOS, was modestly reduced.

Why This Matters

For women with PCOS, excess androgens drive many of the most frustrating symptoms, including acne, hair loss, and unwanted hair growth. By lowering testosterone and DHEAS, resveratrol shows promise as a natural support for hormone balance.

That said, resveratrol should be seen as a complementary option, not a replacement for medical care or lifestyle foundations like nutrition, exercise, and stress management.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

• Only four clinical trials were included, with relatively small participant numbers.
• Differences in dosage, duration, and participant characteristics make broad conclusions difficult.

The Takeaway

Resveratrol is emerging as a promising natural aid for women with PCOS, particularly for reducing elevated androgens. While more research is needed—especially on fertility and metabolic health—it may play a supportive role in a holistic approach to managing PCOS.

If you’re considering resveratrol supplementation, speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether it’s right for you.

✨ At IDUN Life, we believe in blending evidence-based science with natural solutions to support wellbeing. Resveratrol may be one piece of the PCOS puzzle—reminding us that nature often has tools to help us restore balance.