Fenugreek capsules contain the dried seeds of the herb Trigonella foenum-graecum, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. As far back as 1500 BC, people have used seeds from this medicinal plant for their culinary and medicinal benefits. Fenugreek is native to Asia and southern Europe, and now grown extensively in the United States, France, India, North Africa and the Mediterranean countries, according to Purdue University.
Consult a physician before embarking on any herbal supplement regimen.
Uses
The maple aroma of fenugreek flavors baked goods, jams, curries and syrups, as well as livestock feed, according to Purdue University. In addition to their baking and feed applications, people use fenugreek capsules medicinally to alleviate constipation, reduce inflammation and improve digestive problems, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Fenugreek is also utilized as a treatment for a variety of conditions, including alopecia, arthritis, infections, muscle pain, urinary disorders, skin problems and wounds. The material in fenugreek seeds lowers cholesterol and lipid levels and reduces blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes may use this herb as part of their treatment. Animal studies indicate that fenugreek protects the liver from alcohol-related liver damage and may prevent certain cancers. Breastfeeding women may take fenugreek capsules to stimulate the flow of breast milk, but there is no evidence that this supplement stimulates lactation.
Side Effects
If you take fenugreek capsules, you may experience bloating, gas and loose stools, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Taking more than 100g of fenugreek capsules a day may result in bruising, bleeding and low blood sugar levels, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Cautions
Because fenugreek capsules may stimulate uterine contractions, women should not take this supplement during pregnancy, advises Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor before taking fenugreek capsules as this supplement may require adjustments to your prescription diabetes medications. Fenugreek capsules may also interact with blood-thinning drugs called anticoagulants as well as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, drugs used to treat mental health disorders.
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