FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF DARK CHOCOLATE ENRICHED WITH VITEX AGNUS CASTUS AND MENTHA SPICATA FOR PCOS

Alisha Rafik Sayyad*, Dr. Wakale V. S.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and metabolic abnormalities. Conventional therapies often cause side effects and poor patient compliance, highlighting the need for safer alternatives. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate phyto-enriched dark chocolate containing Vitex agnus-castus and Mentha spicata as a novel nutraceutical approach for PCOS management. These herbal extracts were selected for their hormonal regulatory and anti-androgenic properties, while dark chocolate served as an antioxidant-rich and palatable carrier. The formulation was prepared using the melting–tempering–molding method, and three batches (F1, F2, and F3) were developed with varying extract concentrations. Evaluation studies included organoleptic characteristics, weight variation, hardness, melting point, pH, moisture content, and phytochemical screening. Results demonstrated acceptable physicochemical properties and formulation stability. Among all batches, F2 was identified as the optimized formulation due to its superior palatability, stability, and therapeutic potential. The developed formulation represents a safe, innovative, and patient-friendly nutraceutical strategy for PCOS management and may serve as a promising alternative for future clinical application.