Impact of Phytoestrogens on Endocrine Glands of Albino Rats Ii. Adrenal

Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring phytochemicals found in plants and plant products. These is structurally and functionally similar to 17b oestradiol or synthetic oestrogens. (Burton and Wells, 2002) Even a low dose phytoestrogen diet can induce developmental and maturational abnormalities in both laboratory animals and domestic livestock and can affect human health too. (Fredrick et al., 1981; Schinckel, 1948) Among their widespread clinical effects dietary phytoestrogens is purported to reduce the risk of cancer have antioxidant and free radical scavenger activity, reduce serum cholesterol induce cell differentiation and inhibit angiogenesis in human. (Sharangouda and Patil, 2006 and Cline and Hughes, 1998) Phytoestrogens can be present in the herbs used for treatment for many diseases (unconventionally), in the diet in legumes, grains, nuts, fruits and other fiber rich foods (Humfrey, 1998 and Wilcox et al., 1990).