Fenugreek

Names in Different Languages

English	Fenugreek
Urdu	میتھی
Hindi	मेथी
Farsi	شنبلیله
Unani	Hulba
French	Fenugrec
German	Bockshornklee

Traditional Uses

In Ayurveda and Unani medicine, fenugreek seeds have long been used for digestive complaints, blood-sugar control, low milk supply in breastfeeding mothers and as a cooking spice and tonic.

Modern Research

Soluble fibre and saponins are the main studied components. Trials show modest blood-sugar and cholesterol improvements, and some evidence for increased milk production. Effects are modest and dose-dependent, and high doses commonly cause digestive upset.

Uses

• Blood-sugar support
• Digestive support
• Cholesterol support
• Traditional lactation support

Benefits of Use

• Blood-sugar support: soluble fibre may slow carbohydrate absorption and modestly improve glucose control
• Digestive support: may ease constipation and indigestion
• Heart support: may modestly lower total and LDL cholesterol
• Male vitality support: testosterone-study extracts suggest modest support for male reproductive health
• Lactation support: traditionally used to support milk production, with mixed trial evidence

Safe Dose & Overdose (mg/g)

Side Effects

• Digestive upset, gas, bloating and diarrhoea, common at high doses
• Maple-syrup-like body and urine odour
• Allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to peanuts, chickpeas or soy
• Low blood sugar in sensitive users

Interactions

• Diabetes medicines: may add to blood-sugar-lowering effects
• Blood thinners: may increase bleeding risk
• Hormone therapies: phytoestrogen activity may interfere
• Phenytoin and sildenafil: fenugreek may alter absorption or effects

Sources

• WebMD Fenugreek
• Drugs.com Fenugreek
• NutriDex Fenugreek