Fenugreek as Natural Remedies for Diabetes

Fenugreek spice commonly is sold as the dried ripe seed. Also known as methi, fenugreek is an annual that is native to Asia and southeastern Europe.

The European herb fenugreek has been used for centuries as a cooking spice and has been used in folk medicine for almost as long. The herb has been used in folk medicine in the treatment of boils, diabetes, cellulitis, and tuberculosis. Extracts of the seeds are used to flavor maple syrup substitutes. Fenugreek also has been used as an insect repellent. The seeds are rich in protein and the plant is grown as an animal forage. Following commercial extraction of diosgenin (which is used as a natural precursor in commercial steroid synthesis), the nitrogen and potassium-rich seed residue is used as an agricultural fertilizer.

Cholesterol-lowering effects
Clinical data from very small studies suggest the use of fenugreek for cholesterol lowering. Further studies are necessary to determine the full benefits of fenugreek to reduce cholesterol.

Glucose-lowering effects
Glycemic control was improved in a small study of patients with mild type-2 diabetes mellitus. Since patients receiving the fenugreek were also allowed to receive their other diabetic medications, caution is advised in the interpretation of these results.

Pregnancy/nursing
Avoid use in pregnancy as fenugreek has documented uterine stimulant effects. It has been used to stimulate milk production in nursing mothers. Excretion into milk has not been studied.

Interactions
The effects of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin may be potentiated. Patients taking anticoagulants should consult their health care provider before taking fenugreek; dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Side Effects
Dyspepsia and mild abdominal distention have been reported in studies using large doses of the seeds. Culinary quantities are essentially devoid of adverse effects. However, a case of hypersensitivity to fenugreek in curry powder has been reported.

Toxicities
The acute toxicity from a large dose of fenugreek has not been characterized. Hypoglycemia is a potential danger.