Fenugreek is both a culinary herb and a medicinal herb. The Chinese and Eastern Indians have used it medicinally for many centuries. MedicinalHerbInfo.org states that the plant is an annual plant that is native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The seeds are harvested for medicinal and culinary use.
Treatment for Diabetes
According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) fenugreek has shown promise in animal and clinical studies for the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. When the herb is taken with meals, it seems to lower blood glucose levels. However, more studies are needed to know definitively that it is effective for this purpose.
Lactation Aid
One of the traditional uses of fenugreek is to promote or increase lactation. HealthLine warns that not enough study has been done to confirm its safety. Be sure to consult your health-care professional before taking fenugreek while breast-feeding.
Lower High Cholesterol
MSKCC suggests that fenugreek may reduce high cholesterol. There are a few animal studies and a few clinical trials that suggest its effectiveness. More research must be done to confirm it as a treatment for high cholesterol.
Other Uses
The MSKCC website gives these as other possible uses, although there is no scientific evidence that it is effective for these conditions: alopecia, arthritis, cancer treatment, gastrointestinal disorders, high cholesterol, inducing childbirth, infections, inflammation, lymphadenitis, muscle pain, promoting urination, skin ulcers, wound healing. You should consult your health-care provider before using fenugreek for these conditions.
Potential Side Effects
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that the use of fenugreek may cause gas, bloating or diarrhea. It may also cause skin irritation when used externally.
Warning
Pregnant women should not use fenugreek, since it may cause uterine contractions.
Fenugreek may have a harmful interaction with other medications. Be sure to consult your health-care provider before starting to use fenugreek medicinally.
Any new substance can cause allergic reactions. Be aware of any rashes, hives, difficulty breathing or chest pain when taking this herb. If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue using fenugreek and consult your health-care provider.
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