Fenugreek is both a popular culinary herb and a medicinal herb. Though the plant originally was native to southeastern Europe and west Asia, it is now cultivated all over the world. MedicinalHerbInfo.org tells us that fenugreek also goes by the common names of bird’s foot, Greek hayseed and its scientific name Trigonella foenum-graecum. Before taking fenugreek medicinally, be sure to consult with your health care provider for proper instructions.
Fenugreek & Congestion
According to the website of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, fenugreek is often used to treat conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol and skin ulcers. The National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, on its website adds menopausal and digestive conditions to the list. But there is no available information about the use of fenugreek to treat chest or sinus congestion. Your health-care provider may be able to direct you in using fenugreek for this purpose.
Forms Used
The medicinal portions of the fenugreek plant are its seeds. Drugs.com advises us that these can be ground and used to make capsules, tea or a paste to apply to affected skin. Currently, there is no information to advise how to use fenugreek to treat congestion.
Side Effects
The MSKCC site advises that taking fenugreek may cause bleeding, bruising, flatulence, diarrhea, hypoglycemia, or skin sensitization. Fenugreek may also interact harmfully with anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory drugs, medications for diabetes or any other medications you may be taking.
Research
At this time, there has not been any clinical study of fenugreek as a treatment for congestion. You should not use fenugreek for this purpose, due to a lack of understanding of its effects on congestion.
Caution
Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid using fenugreek. There is little clinical information about how it could affect the baby.
Remember that all new substances can cause a dangerous allergic reaction. If you experience hives, a rash or swelling of the tongue or throat, stop the use of fenugreek right away and contact your health care provider.
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