Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an herbal supplement that is used for treating a variety of conditions, including high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and high blood sugar. It contains several compounds that may stimulate the secretion of insulin and slow down the digestive tract. Potential side effects include diarrhea, gas, and indigestion. There is currently no scientific evidence suggesting that fenugreek is effective for any use.

 

What Is Fenugreek?

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an herbal supplement often claimed to be beneficial for the following uses:
 
There are many other purported uses, some of which are more valid than others. The herb is also used non-medicinally as a spice or flavoring agent for a maple-like flavor.
 
(Click Benefits of Fenugreek for more information on what it is used for.)
 

How Does It Work?

Fenugreek contains sotolon, trigonelline, and 4-hydroxyisoleucine, compounds that are thought to be the active components of it.
 4-hydroxyisoleucine may stimulate the secretion of insulin, which is why fenugreek may theoretically lower blood sugar. The seeds also contain fiber and pectin, a complex carbohydrate, both of which may slow down the digestive tract, which can help lower blood sugar.
 
Fenugreek may also contain "blood-thinning" compounds known as coumarins, but it is not known if these compounds are present in high enough quantities to actually make a difference in humans. The herb may also stimulate the uterus, heart, and intestines.
 

Is It Effective?

There is not enough evidence to know if it is effective for any use (see Does Fenugreek Work? for more information).
 

Dosing Information

The best fenugreek dose has not yet been determined (see Fenugreek Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects

Fenugreek can cause several side effects, such as:
 
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Gas
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Body and urine odors that smell like maple syrup.
     
(Click Fenugreek Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Fenugreek can potentially interact with a few medications (see Fenugreek Drug Interactions).
 

Is Fenugreek Safe?

Normal doses are probably safe for most people when taken in normal amounts, such as amounts found in food, although higher doses can cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement if you have:
 
  • Diabetes
  • A bleeding disorder
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is Fenugreek Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from a fenugreek overdose, but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much may cause the usual side effects of fenugreek, but they may be more severe. Theoretically, an overdose could cause severe problems, such as internal bleeding or dangerously low blood sugar.
 
(Click Fenugreek Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Fenugreek Be Stored?

Refer to the label of your individual fenugreek product for information on how to best store the product. Keep fenugreek out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;