Introduction: Traditional Iranian medicine has long provided natural and effective remedies for managing gynecological condition that can result from various factors. The aim of this review is to identify and compile medicinal plants traditionally used in Iran for the treatment of vaginitis.
Methods: Considering the focus on traditional medicine, relevant medicinal plants were identified and reviewed through classical texts on Iranian traditional medicine, botanical literature, and credible online databases.
Results: Historically, a wide range of medicinal plants has been utilized in the treatment of vaginitis in Iran, including Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) Cheel, Nigella sativa L., Curcuma longa L., Thymus vulgaris L., Mentha pulegium L., Salvia officinalis L., Matricaria chamomilla L., Achillea millefolium L., Calendula officinalis L., Rosa spp. L., Rubus idaeus L., Coriandrum sativum L., Foeniculum vulgare Mill., Ocimum basilicum L., Olea europaea L., Aloe barbadensis Mill., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Mentha piperita L., Myrtus communis L., Viola odorata L., Artemisia absinthium L., Allium sativum L., Zingiber officinale Roscoe. In traditional Iranian medicine for the treatment of vaginitis, the Lamiaceae and Asteraceae families were the most commonly used. The primary plant parts utilized included leaves (43%), flowers (21%), and seeds (12%). Regarding preparation methods, 71% of remedies were administered as decoctions, while 29% were prepared as infusions.
Conclusion: Traditional Iranian medicine has provided a diverse array of herbal interventions for vaginitis. Historical evidence and classical texts suggest that numerous plants possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, supporting their therapeutic potential in managing this condition.