Fenugreek is native to Europe and west Asia. It has been cultivated and used traditionally for thousands of years for a variety of health and culinary uses. Recorded fenugreek use dates back to 1500 B.C. in ancient Egypt. Today, research reports that fenugreek extract lowers blood sugar levels with few side effects.
Identification
Fenugreek is derived from the reddish-brown seeds of the plant. The Latin name for the fenugreek plant is Trigonella foenum-graecum. It is characterized by yellow flowers and a round stem. Fenugreek seeds can be ground up and taken orally or mashed to form a paste for topical use, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Fenugreek is also sold as a supplement in capsule and powder form.
Benefits
The NCCAM reports that several studies suggest fenugreek may lower blood glucose levels in individuals diagnosed with diabetes. In a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that fenugreek seed improves blood glucose tolerance and also decreases total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides levels. The researchers concluded that fenugreek is beneficial for the management of diabetes. Fenugreek also has traditional use in India for supporting breast milk production, but more studies are needed before this can be suggested. You should seek a health professional before treating yourself with alternative medicine.
Interactions
Drugs.com recommends consultation with a licensed medical practitioner before combining fenugreek with any medication. If taking prescription drugs that control blood sugar levels such as insulin, do not take fenugreek unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist. Also be cautious about taking fenugreek while using nonsterodial anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAID, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen, and similar drugs. Fenugreek may affect absorption of many prescription drugs if taken at the same time.
Side Effects
Like most herbs, fenugreek has not been established as safe by the Food and Drug Administration. Side effects of oral fenugreek consumption include gas, bloating and diarrhea, according to NCCAM. Topical fenugreek can cause irritation when applied directly on the skin. Pregnant women should use caution when supplementing with fenugreek and consult a health care provider first.
Dosage
There is no evaluated fenugreek dose for adults. Hebal Remedies Info recommends that typical fenugreek supplement dose is 1 to 6 grams taken three times per day.
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