Fenugreek

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about fenugreek, a herb used for its flavor, scent, and potential therapeutic properties. Fenugreek includes various parts of the plant such as flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, seeds, stems, and roots. The first recorded use of fenugreek dates back to an ancient Egyptian papyrus from 1500 B.C. Fenugreek seeds are commonly used in cooking.

Common Names

• Fenugreek
• Fenugreek seed

Latin Name

• Trigonella foenum-graecum

Uses

• Historically, fenugreek has been used for various health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive issues. It was also used to induce childbirth.
• Today, fenugreek is used for managing diabetes, stimulating appetite, and promoting milk production in breastfeeding women. Additionally, it is applied topically to treat inflammation.

How It Is Used

Fenugreek seeds are typically dried, ground, and taken orally or made into a paste for topical application.

What the Science Says

• Some small studies suggest that fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
• There is insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of fenugreek for other health conditions.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Possible side effects of oral consumption include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Topical application may cause skin irritation.
• Due to its historical use in inducing childbirth, caution is advised for pregnant women considering fenugreek.
• It is essential to inform healthcare providers about complementary and alternative practices to ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Fenugreek. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.
• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Leguminosae). Natural Standard Database.
• Fenugreek seed. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:130-133.
• NCCAM National Institutes of Health