Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum [Latin]), also known as Greek hay and fenigreek, was used to treat a whole slew of ailments in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, such as bronchial problems. Indian and traditional Chinese medicine recommend fenugreek to treat arthritis and bronchitis, induce labor, improve digestion, and maintain a healthy metabolism. Fenugreek also has a long history of use for treatment of reproductive disorders in women.
Fenugreek is an erect annual herb native to southern Europe and Asia. Undoubtedly one of the oldest cultivated medicinal plants, fenugreek is widely grown today in the Mediterranean countries, Argentina, France, India, North Africa, and the United States as a food, condiment, medicinal, dye, and forage plant. The plant reaches a height of 0.3 to 0.8 meters and has trifoliate leaves. White flowers appear in early summer and develop into long, slender, yellow-brown pods containing the brown seeds of fenugreek commerce.
As a healing herb, fenugreek leaves when boiled and consumed as tea are said to cure the common cold and relieve arthritic pains, although this is not based on concrete scientific research. In India, it is said that not many people have arthritis, and it is believed that that is because Indians often and frequently consume fenugreek. They said that drinking a cup of tea using Fenugreek leaves could relieve the discomfort of arthritis.
Still in India, people swallow raw fenugreek seeds, about 2 to 3 grams, with warm water supposedly to heal body pains. It is believed to be most effective when taken early in the morning before brushing one’s teeth or drinking coffee. Before going to sleep in the evening, a few fenugreek seeds may again be taken with warm water to fight constipation, due to the seed’s high dietary fiber content.
The small stony fenugreek seed is cube-like or oblong in shape and yellow to amber in color. They contain protein, vitamin C, potassium, niacin, and diosgenin.
Meanwhile, in China, fenugreek seeds, referred to as “Hu Lu Ba”, are believed to cleanse the kidney, disperse cold, and soothe different kinds of pain, specifically hernia or groin pains. They are taken raw or toasted. It is one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs by Chinese medicine men.
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BOTANICAL NAME: Trigonella foenum-graecum L. |
FAMILY NAME: Fabaceae |
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Name in International Languages |
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Spanish: Alholva Or Fenogreco |
Dutch: Fenegriek |
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French: Fenugrec |
Italian: Fieno Greco |
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German: Bockshorklee |
Portuguese: Alforva |
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Swedish: Bockshornklee |
Russian: Pazhitnik |
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Arabic: Hulba |
Chinese: k'u - Tou |
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Japanese: Koroha |
Finnish: Sarviapila |
Fenugreek contains choline which may aid the thinking process, and antioxidants that slow aging and help prevent disease. It is also helpful in calming PMS and symptoms of menopause.
The steroidal saponins account for many of the beneficial effects of fenugreek, particularly the inhibition of cholesterol absorption and synthesis. The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which may be the main reason they can lower blood sugar levels in diabetes. One human study found that fenugreek can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels in persons with moderate atherosclerosis and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Randomized and uncontrolled studies have confirmed fenugreek helps stabilize blood sugar control in patients with insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. It helps lower elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, including in those with diabetes, according to several controlled studies. Generally fenugreek does not lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. This type of cholesterol is believed to be beneficial.
Fenugreek seeds contain alkaloids (mainly trigonelline) and protein high in lysine and L-tryptophan. Its steroidal saponins (diosgenin, yamogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogenin) and mucilaginous fiber are thought to account for many of the beneficial effects of fenugreek. The steroidal saponins are thought to inhibit cholesterol absorption and synthesis, while the fiber may help lower blood sugar levels. One human study found that fenugreek can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels in people with moderate atherosclerosis and non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes. Preliminary and double-blind trials have found that fenugreek helps improve blood sugar control in patients with insulin-dependent (type 1) and non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes. Double-blind trials have shown that fenugreek lowers elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. This has also been found in a controlled clinical trial with diabetic patients with elevated cholesterol. Generally, fenugreek does not lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels.
Fenugreek seeds contain hormone precursors that increase milk supply. Scientists do not know for sure how this happens. Some believe it is possible because breasts are modified sweat glands, and fenugreek stimulates sweat production. It has been found that fenugreek can increase a nursing mother's milk supply within 24 to 72 hours after first taking the herb. Once an adequate level of milk production is reached, most women can discontinue the fenugreek and maintain the milk supply with adequate breast stimulation. Many women today take fenugreek in a pill form (ground seeds placed in capsules). Fenugreek can also be taken in tea form. Fenugreek is not right for everyone. The herb has caused aggravated asthma symptoms in some women and has lowered blood glucose levels in some women with diabetes.
The most popular medicinal purpose of fenugreek is as a galactogogue or milk-producing agent for lactating mothers. Studies have proven that fenugreek can increase breast milk production by as much as 900%. Fenugreek capsules are produced and sold in health food stores primarily as a supplement for the production of breast milk. Some commercially-produced fenugreek capsules also claim to combat diabetes for its supposed ability to reduce serum glucose and improve glucose tolerance.
Fenugreek is considered safe for nursing moms when used in moderation and is on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's GRAS list (Generally Recognized As Safe). As with most medications and herbs, various side effects have been noted.
Per Thomas Hale PhD, Medications and Mothers Milk 2006 ,"The transfer of fenugreek into milk is unknown, but untoward effects have not been reported." Hale classifies it in Lactation Risk Category L3 (moderately safe).
Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also used for inducing childbirth.
Today, it is used for diabetes and loss of appetite, and to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding women. It is also applied to the skin to treat inflammation.
Studies have found people who took 2 ounces (56g) of fenugreek seed each day had significantly (around 14 percent) lower cholesterol levels after 24 weeks, and had lowered their risk of heart attack by more than 25 percent. Therefore, a recommended remedy for lowering cholesterol is to take 2 ounces of seeds throughout the day. The seeds can be sprinkled onto prepared food, or they can be consumed with water if they are in capsule form.
Studies have shown that participants with type 2 diabetes had significantly lower blood sugar levels after eating fenugreek. Therefore, a recommended home remedy for treating Type 2 diabetes is to consume 500mg of fenugreek twice daily.
Research has shown that Fenugreek is an effective topical treatment for skin problems such as abscesses, boils, burns, eczema, and gout. Therefore, a simple skin inflammation remedy is the following:
Take a spoonful of fenugreek and grind it into a powder.
Mix the ground powder with warm water.
Take a simple piece of clean cloth and soak it into the mixture.
Apply the soaked cloth directly onto the affected skin as a poultice.
Fenugreek seeds contain a lot of mucilage, which helps sooth gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and intestine. Therefore, for an effective remedy against heartburn or Acid Reflux, simply sprinkle 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds onto your food. Another option is to take one teaspoon of seeds and swallow them with water or juice before any meal.
The Fenugreek herb has been known to help reduce fever when taken with lemon and honey, since it nourishes the body during an illness. Therefore, to treat a fever, simply consume one to two teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds three times a day along with an herbal tea (such as green tea) with a teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Some health food stores also sell herbal Fenugreek teas, which can be used instead of the green tea.
Fenugreek stimulates uterine contractions and can be helpful to induce childbirth. However, pregnant women should only use this remedy for inducing labor after consulting with their doctor.
Fenugreek has been known to increase milk production in lactating women. Research has even shown that milk production can increase by over 500 percent within 24 to 72 hours after consuming this herb. Although it is not known why this happens, researchers speculate that the oil contained in fenugreek seeds plays a role. Therefore, a recommended remedy to increase milk flow is to consume one capsule of fenugreek seed (at least 500mg) three times a day.
Fenugreek Capsule Form (580-610 mg)
2-4 capsules, 3 times per day --- 6-12 capsules (total) per day
1200-2400 mg, 3 times per day (3.5-7.3 grams/day)
German Commission E recommends a daily intake of 6 grams
I recommend that you only purchase Fenugreek from a reputable Herbal store, the quality is generally superior to that found in chain discount stores.
Sweat and urine smells like maple syrup (this is common and often a sign that you have reached the right dose)
Loose stools in some women, which go away when fenugreek is discontinued
Hypoglycemia in some mothers
Can cause uterine contractions - do NOT use if you're pregnant
Diabetic mothers should use caution with fenugreek since it can cause lowering of blood glucose levels.
Fenugreek is LIKELY SAFE for people when taken by mouth in amounts normally found in foods. It is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken in amounts used for medicinal purposes (amounts larger than normally found in food). Side effects include diarrhea, stomach upset, bloating, gas, and a “maple syrup” odor in urine. Fenugreek can cause nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, facial swelling, and severe allergic reactions in hypersensitive people. Fenugreek might lower blood sugar.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Fenugreek is LIKELY UNSAFE in pregnancy when used in amounts greater than those in food. It might cause early contractions. Taking fenugreek just before delivery may cause the newborn to have an unusual body odor, which could be confused with “maple syrup disease.” It does not appear to cause long-term effects.
Although fenugreek is used to stimulate the production of breast milk, not enough is known about the safety of fenugreek during breast-feeding. It’s best not to use fenugreek if you are breast-feeding.
Children: Fenugreek might be UNSAFE for children. Some reports have linked fenugreek tea to loss of consciousness in children. An unusual body odor resembling maple syrup may occur in children drinking fenugreek tea.
Diabetes: Fenugreek can affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes and use fenugreek.
Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with FENUGREEK
Fenugreek might decrease blood sugar. Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking fenugreek along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to go too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your diabetes medication might need to be changed.
Some medications used for diabetes include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with FENUGREEK
Fenugreek might slow blood clotting. Taking fenugreek along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.
Warfarin (Coumadin) interacts with FENUGREEK
Warfarin (Coumadin) is used to slow blood clotting. Fenugreek might also slow blood clotting. Taking fenugreek along with warfarin (Coumadin) might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. The dose of your warfarin (Coumadin) might need to be changed.
If the mother that feeds them mother milk doesn’t exaggerate the doze, the baby isn’t affected in any way. Mothers who take fenugreek in larger amounts notice their skin smells sort of like maple syrup, and so does the baby’s skin. However, some babies start having green watery stools that go away when the mother stops the fenugreek cure.
If they consume fenugreek seeds or herbal tea in large quantities they will observe maple syrup like smell in their urine.
Fenugreek can cause loose stools, dizziness and gas in some women. If they have an allergic reaction to it, they may experience numbness, facial swelling, breathing difficulties. There have been cases when fenugreek has lowered the sugar level in some women with diabetes.
Except the fact that they may start to smell like a maple syrup pancake, they may also have serious problems regarding the pregnancy. Fenugreek ingestion can trigger uterus contractions and thus premature birth.
Men (and not only) that suffer from asthma should be cautious regarding fenugreek intake, because there have been cases if aggravating the asthmatic crisis. People with thyroid problems should consult a specialist before taking fenugreek in any condition they might have. Thyroid dysfunctions have been reported in male patients that used fenugreek for treating hernia, and other...
These are taken from a big internet site.
Great for nursing moms January 23, 2009, By Jacqueline Myers From Texas
I started this supplement in order to increase milk supply. I noticed a difference right away. Just so you know, Fenugreek smells like celery seed to me, and it comes out the pores of your underarm as you perspire. Interestingly, it makes your breast milk smell like maple syrup. I have had no problems with nursing, even with my daughter's growth spurts, I am able to keep up and have not needed to supplement with formula. Some people warned of engorgement as a result of using this, but I haven't experienced any negative effects, just more milk supply.
Excellent supplement July 24, 2009, From North Carolina
I bought this to help my daughter with her milk flow during breast-feeding. The improvement was noticeable and the only side effect is she smells like maple syrup. Yum!
Didnt work February 07, 2009, From Pennsylvania
I bought these to help increase my breast milk supply. Greatly disappointed.
Fenugreek January 01, 2011, From California
My daughter has had some problems nursing her baby and not producing enough milk, she was told to use this along with Blessed Thistle and they both seem to be working. She is producing more milk now.
i can't tell April 06, 2010, From Utah
I have been using this for over 2 months and I really don't know if it is helping my milk supply or not, but I am not going to chance it and stop.
Fenegreek February 19, 2009, From Maryland
Tried it when I was nursing - very good for digestion
Helps with Nursing supply June 14, 2010, From Indiana
My pediatrician advised me to take fenugreek for low nursing supply. I honestly had to take quite a bit to notice any sort of difference though. …
… fenugreek October 15, 2008, By paulette lucas From Kentucky
great product helps in many functions of the body breathing and spams