Fenugreek Herb

The herb fenugreek dates back to 1,500 B.C., when scientists and historians verified its use in Egypt based upon ancient writings. In addition to its use as a spice, herbalists often use the seeds of fenugreek as medicine.

Function

• Herbalists credit fenugreek with slowing the absorption of sugars in your stomach and increases your pancreas' production of insulin, explains RxList.

Uses

• Reported uses of fenugreek herb include the treatment of diabetes, high cholesterol, upset stomach, loss of appetite, constipation, hardening of your arteries, gout, impotence, fever and baldness, reports RxList. Herbalists also recommend fenugreek to stimulate milk production in nursing mothers, reports the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Clinical Evidence

• A 2009 study at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in Isfahan, Iran and published in the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutritional Research found that type 2 diabetics who consumed 10 g of powdered fenugreek seeds dissolved in hot water per day for eight weeks experienced decreases in blood sugar levels.

Risks

• Side effects of fenugreek when used as a medicinal supplement include bloating, diarrhea and skin irritation, cautions the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Some patients develop severe allergic reactions to fenugreek.

Considerations

• Because it may cause premature labor, pregnant women should not use fenugreek, cautions the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. If you have an allergy to chickpeas, peanuts, soybeans or green peas or are taking blood thinning medications, it may not be safe for you to use fenugreek as a medicinal supplement, warns RxList.