Properties:Alterative, Anticatarrhal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiseptic, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Bitter, Demulcent, Emmollient, Ecpectorant, Febrifuge, Galactagogue, Mucilant, VulneraryTaste, bitter and peculiar, not unlike lovage or celery.Odour,similar.
Fenugreek is a unique herb rich in phyto-estrogens. Fenugreek aids in hormonal production, and facilitates the development of the mammary glands which 'feed' on estrogens. Trigonelline.
Herbs: Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum),Trigonella Foenum Graecu
Botanical:Foenum-graecum (LINN.)
Family:Leguminosae
Synonyms:Bird's Foot. Greek Hay-seed.
Part Used:Dried Seeds. Fenugreek Seeds
Habitat:Indigenous to the countries on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean. Cultivated in India,Africa,Egypt,Morocco,and occasionally in England.large cultivated in west province of China:NingXia,Gansu,ShanXi,XinJiang,etc..
Other names for fenugreek
Latin: Trigonella foenum-graecum L.; Foenugraeci semen (for the seed)
Amharic Ethiopian: Abish; Italian: Fieno Greco Arabic: Hulba,
Chinese: Hu-lu-ba,Hu-lu-pa, K'u-Tou Norwegian: Bukkehonrkler
Dutch: Fenegriek Portuguese: Alforva,Feno-grego Farsi: Sambelil Russian: Pazhitnik,Pazhitnik grecheskiy, Sambala
Finnish: Sarviapila Sanskrit: Methi,Methika, Peetbeeja French: Fenugrec,Trigonelle
Spanish: Alholva,Fenogreco German: Bockshornsamen (seed),Bockshorklee.
Griechisches Heu Swahili: Uwatu Hebrew: Hilbeh Swedish: Bockshornklee
Useful Parts:The seeds of fenugreek are the source of the spice, but the sprouts may be eaten raw in salads.
Habitat:Native to North Africa and countries bordering the eastern Mediterranean, fenugreek grows in open areas and is widely cultivated, notably in India. The seeds are collected during the autumn.
Description The herb Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a reminder that the Romans imported it from Greece as a desirable crop, Greek hay? that was used as a cattle food. However, the seed became a popular spice and has long been used as a nourishing dietary herb in the Middle East to which it is native, and in India and the Far East. It is more familiar in many countries as a component of curry powder, to which it contributes a curry-like taste. It is also used raw or roasted to give flavor to mango chutney and to imitation maple syrup and to some artificial licorice preparations. Other constituents impart a strong celery-like odor, and they are utilized in the fragrance industry.
It is used as an appetizer, a tonic and an aphrodisiac, and it is included in many foods and beverages. Fenugreek has a long history of dubious indications, including fevers, colic, flatulence, dyspepsia, dysentery, cough, tuberculosis, edema, rickets, leg ulcers, gout, diabetes and baldness. There is little evidence to suggest the spice is toxic or that it has significant anticoagulant or hormonal effects.
Originating in the Mediterranean region and Asia, Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-graecum) is one of the oldest herbs known. Its seeds were highly praised for their beneficial uses in ancient Egypt and India and later among the Greeks and Romans. The seeds were also used to produce a yellow dye for coloring wool. As Fenugreek spread around the Mediterranean, ancient physicians learned that its seeds contained a great deal of mucilage and when mixed with water provided many health benefits. The most common uses of Fenugreek today are culinary, such as providing a maple flavor for confectionaries, an ingredient of curry powders, and as an enhancement for meats, poultry and marinated vegetables.
Calculated on a zero moisture basis per 100 gm
Aluminum 35 mg Cobalt 0.182 mg Magnesium 121 mg
Ash(total) 3.9 % Crude Fiber 8.7 % Manganese 0.21 mg
Calcium 73 mg Dietary Fiber 48.0 % Niacin 1.60 mg
Calories 0.68 /gm Fat 6.4 % Phosphorus 288 mg
Carbohydrates 59.1 % Iron 5.6 mg Potassium 102 mg
Chromium 0.04 mg Protein 30.6 % Tin 0.42 mg
Thiamine 1.35 mg Selenium 0.16 mg Silicon 0.47mg
Riboflavin 0.32 mg Sodium 58.0 mg Vitamin A 38.5 IU
Vitamin C 60.0 mg Zinc [trace mg]
Nutrients of note:
Sugars 13 % (glucose, arabinose, galactose)
Starch 15 %
Legends, Myths and Stories of Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is one of the oldest medicinal plants, dating back to the ancient Egyptians and Hippocrates. The botanical name (foenum-graecum) means "Greek hay."
In ancient Egypt, fenugreek was used to ease childbirth and to increase milk flow. Today, it is still taken by Egyptian women for menstrual pain and as hilba tea to ease stomach problems of tourists.
Introduced into the southern provinces of China, the beans were in use as a medicine since the time of the Tang dynasty. Usually parched or boiled, and given with aloes, anise-seed and other substances as a tonic.
Best known in India and among the people around the Mediterranean Sea, the seeds have a flavor somewhat like maple sugar and an extract is used to make artificial maple flavor. Fenugreek is an ingredient in chutneys and used in some curry blends. The roasted seeds are used as an adulterant and as a coffee substitute.
Burkill stated, "The seeds, after roasting, are eaten in Egypt, and in ancient Egypt were regarded as medicinal and were used in religious rites. They contain mucilage, sugars, an alkaloid--trigonellin, which is not poisonous--cholin and a scented compound."
A study in India involving insulin-dependent diabetics on low doses of insulin, pulverized fenugreek seeds were shown to reduce blood sugar and other harmful fats. The authors of the study suggest adding fenugreek seeds to the diets of diabetics.
Fenugreek (Huluba) origins from west asia and north africa. cultivated at middle east since year 700 century B.C.,spread to Pakistan and India,etc,now cultivated largely at west China,South Europe,North Africa and South Asia.Its is said that huluba taken into China at the beggining of XiHan Dynasty by General Zhang Qian and cultivated as spice.NingXia province is traditional region of Huluba of China,according to registration of XuanDe NingXia Zhi, Huluba cultivated widely at Ningxia as a herb at the beginning of Ming Dynasty, a history over than 500 years.
Description of of Fenugreek:
Archeology of "Fenugreek":
The name comes from Foenum-graecum, meaning Greek Hay, the plant being used to scent inferior hay. The name of the genus, Trigonella, is derived from the old Greek name, denoting 'three-angled,' from the form of its corolla. The seeds of Fenugreek have been used medicinally all through the ages and were held in high repute among the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Fenugreek is an erect annual herb, growing about 2 feet high, similar in habit to Lucerne. The seeds are brownish, about 1/8 inch long, oblong, rhomboidal, with a deep furrow dividing them into two unequal lobes. They are contained, ten to twenty together, in long, narrow, sickle-like pods.
General Information of of Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is an annual Mediterranean and Asiatic herb with aromatic seeds. It grows to two feet in height with brownish seeds contained in sickle shaped pods. It is used worldwide as a culinary spice as well as a medicinal herb to soothe the stomach and help maintain blood sugar levels. The seeds are rich in protein and contain about 50% fiber and 25% soothing mucilage.
Fenugreek is one of the primary supplements used to support type II diabetics or noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Most NIDDM patients typically have enough insulin but it is not used effectively. Research as to the cause seems to indicate high levels of body fat, too many calorie consumed from refined foods, lack of polyunsaturated fats and chromium deficiencies. Fenugreek Seed helps by not only reducing blood sugar levels with its high concentrations of phytochemicals, but it has also helped reduce low density cholesterol's and triacylglycerols.
Properties of Fenugreek:
Alterative, Anticatarrhal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiseptic, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Bitter, Demulcent, Emmollient, Ecpectorant, Febrifuge, Galactagogue, Mucilant, Vulnerary Taste, bitter and peculiar, not unlike lovage or celery. Odour, similar.
Medicinal Properties: The seed is a source of the steroidal saponin diosgenin, which can be used to manufacture many pharmaceuticals, such as progesterone. The chemical trigonelline is converted into niacin when the seed is roasted. The seeds also provide a mucilaginous fiber content that may benefit the bowel. Of more current interest is the evidence that fenugreek has a minor hypoglycemic effect, thus suggesting it may, in fact, help with diabetes. There is also some evidence that it can reduce hypercholesterolemia in animals.
Constituents and Biochemical Information of Fenugreek:
Fenugreek, somewhat resembling sweetclover and lucerne (alfalfa), is a sub-tropical member of the pea family. It has been cultivated since Antiquity for its seeds, being one of the main ingredients of the mixed spice curry. Moreover, the seeds have interesting medicinal properties.
The characteristic irregular, brick-red seeds have no essential oil. Their flavour is due to trace amounts of the extremely powerful odorant 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2[5H]-furanone, also called fenugreek lactone or sotolone. Its odour detection threshold in water is as low as 0.001 ppb, meaning that 1 g of this compound dissolved in one million tonnes of water can be perceived! It has a celery and maple syrup-like odour. It belongs to the group of very powerful 'burnt sugar' odorants, characterized as being cyclic C6-alpha-enol-carbonyls.
Etymology: Gr. trigonon, triangle, because of the shape of the flowers; Lat. foenum-graecum, Greek hay, because this plant is used as an additive to hay in Greece. Horses and cattle love it.
Active Constituent of Fenugreek:
Composition is similar to Cod Liver Oil which is rich in phosphates, lecithin, nucleoalbumin, and organic iron. Also like Cod Liver Oil it contains trimethylamine, neurin, and betain which tend to stimulate appetite by their action on the nervous system, or can produce a diuretic effect.
Contains saponins, coumarin, fenugreekine, nicotinic acid, phytic acid, scopoletin and trigonelline all of which are known to lower blood sugar.
The aromatic oil of fenugreek is rich in iron, vitamins A and D (similar in composition to cod liver oil).
The leaves contain at least 7 saponins, known as graecunins. These compounds are glycosides of diosgenin. Seeds contain 0.1% to 0.9% diosgenin and are extracted on a commercial basis. Plant tissue cultures from seeds grown under optimal conditions have been found to produce as much as 2% diosgenin with smaller amounts of gitongenin and trigogenin. The seeds also contain the saponin fenugrin B. Several coumarin compounds have been identified in fenugreek seeds 6 as well as a number of alkaloids (eg, trigonelline, gentianine, carpaine). A large proportion of the trigonelline is degraded to nicotinic acid and related pyridines during roasting. These degradation products are, in part, responsible for the flavor of the seed. The seeds also yield as much as 8% of a fixed, foul-smelling oil.
The C-glycoside flavones vitexin, vitexin glycoside, and the arabinoside isoorientin have been isolated from the plant. Three minor steroidal sapogenins also have been found in the seeds: smilagenin, sarsapogenin, and yuccagenin.
The mucilages of the seeds of several plants, including fenugreek, have been determined and their hydrolysates analyzed. Fenugreek gel consists chiefly of galactomannans characterized by their high water-holding capacity. These galactomannans have a unique structure and may be responsible for some of the characteristic therapeutic properties attributed to fenugreek.
Medicinal Action and Uses of Fenugreek:
Primary Uses: Allergies, Appetite/loss of, Catarrh/bronchial, Cholesterol/high, Diabetic Retinopathy, Gas, Gastric Disorders, Lung Infections, Mucus Excessive, Throat/sore
Secondary Uses: Abscesses, Anemia, Asthma, Boils, Body Odor, Bronchitis, cancer, Eyes/swollen, Fevers, Gallbladder Problems, Heartburn, Inflammation, Sinus Problems, Ulcers, Uterine Problems, Water Retention
Fenugreek is often used in herbal medicine in North Africa, the Middle East, and India, being esteemed as a remedy for a wide variety of conditions. The nourishing seeds are given during convalescence and to encourage weight gain, especially in anorexia. They are also helpful in lowering fever, with some authorities comparing their ability to that of quinine. The seeds' soothing effect makes them of value in treating gastritis and gastric ulcers. They are used to induce childbirth and to increase breast-milk production. Fenugreek is also thought to be antidiabetic and to lower blood cholesterol levels. Externally, the seeds may be applied as a paste to treat abscesses, boils, ulcers, and burns, or used as a douche for excessive vaginal discharge. The seeds also freshen bad breath and help restore a dulled sense of taste. In China, fenugreek is used as a pessary to treat cervical cancer.
Uses: Breast enhancement and health, increasing breast milk, sexual desire, PMS, blood sugar, anti-oxidants, menopause.
Indicated for: Fevers, sore throats, wounds, swollen glands, skin irritations, ulcers, muscle aches and gout pain.
Common Uses of Fenugreek:
Helps soothe the stomach.
Helps support healthy blood sugar levels in cases of diabetes.
Can reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the blood.
Promotes lactation for mothers breast feeding their babies.
Used for allergies, coughs, colds, flu, inflammations, fevers, dyspepsia, tonic, emphysema, flatulence, headaches, toothache, migraines, menstrual cramps, intestinal inflammation, cystitis, hydrocele of the testicle, pellegra, stomach ulcers, lungs, bronchitis, dropsy, mucous membranes, and tea for sore throat gargle.
Fenugreek Acts as a bulk laxative:Reduces fever, lowers cholesterol, and lubricates the intestines. Good for the eyes.
Fenugreek Seeds of this annual herb are used in pickling brines and marinades, as well as folk cures ranging from regulating insulin in diabetes to rickets. It was an ingredient in tonic medicines (including Lydia Pinkham's) in the nineteenth century.
Large amounts of the decoction are given to strengthen those suffering from tuberculosis or recovering from an illness. Sometimes thought of as an aphrodisiac. Makes poultice of pulverized seeds for gouty pains, neuralgia, scrofula, rickets, anemia, debility, sciatica, swollen glands, wounds, furuncles, abscesses, (grind the seed, mix it with charcoal, and make it into a thick paste for boils, abscesses, wounds, sores), tumors, dandruff, sores, and skin irritation.
The pulverized Fenugreek seeds may be taken as a tonic for osteomyelitis or scrofula (tubercular adenitis; secondary involvement of the cervical lymph nodes).
Fenugreek used in tea, fenugreek seeds can be sprouted like bean sprouts and used as a vegetable or a salad. The oil of fenugreek has a maple flavor and can be used for a true maple flavoring in cookies and syrups. Seed smells like celery but has a more bitter taste. Ground seed's primary use is as an ingredient in curries.
Fenugreek help in ridding the lungs of mucus and phlegm in the bronchial tubes. Fenugreek combined with lemon juice and honey can help sooth the throat and reduce fever.
Fenugreek used for inflamed bowels and stomach problems because of its bowel-lubricating abilities in south west Asia.
Fenugreek seeds to help reduce urinary glucose levels:Studies on diabetic animals have found fenugreek seeds to help reduce urinary glucose levels. The seeds contain the alkaloid trogonelline, nicotinic acid and coumarin. When the seeds were added to the insulin treatment of diabetic dogs, a decrease in insulin dose was noted.
Fenugreek seeds treating rickets, anemia and other disabilities and infectious disease:
Has been used in place of cod liver oil in treating rickets, anemia and other disabilities following infectious diseases.
Is a strong stimulator of milk production in mothers.
Can be used as a gargle for sore throats. Contains lecithin which helps to dissolve cholesterol and fatty substances.
In Cairo it is used under the name of Helba. This is an Egyptian preparation, made by soaking the seeds in water till they swell into a thick paste. Said to be equal to quinine in preventing fevers; is comforting to the stomach and has been utilized for diabetes. The seeds are soaked in water, then allowed to sprout, and when grown about 2 or 3 inches high, the green eaten raw with the seeds.
The seeds yield the whole of their odour and taste to alcohol and are employed in the preparation of emollient cataplasms, ointments and plasters.
They give a strong mucilage, which is emollient and a decoction of 1 OZ. seeds to 1 pint water is used internally in inflamed conditions of the stomach and intestines. Externally it is used as a poultice for abscesses, boils, carbuncles, etc. It can be employed as a substitute for cod-liver oil in scrofula, rickets, anaemia, debility following infectious diseases. For neurasthenia, gout and diabetes it can be combined with insulin. It possesses the advantage of being cheap and readily taken by children, if its bitter taste is disguised: 1 or 2 teaspoonful of the powder is taken daily in jam, etc.
The ground seeds are used also to give a maple-flavouring to confectionery and nearly all cattle like the flavour of Fenugreek in their forage. The powder is also employed as a spice in curry. At the present day, the ground seeds are utilized to an enormous extent in the manufactures of condition powders for horses and cattle; Funugreek is the principal ingredient in most of the quack nostrums which find so much favour among grooms and horsekeepers. It has a powerful odour of coumarin and is largely used for flavouring cattle foods and to make damaged hay palatable.
In India the fresh plant is employed as an esculent.
Fenugreek more than breast enlarger: Enhancing feminine beauty
Fenugreek has a long history as a breast enlarger and contains diosgenin which is used to make synthetic estrogen. It has been found to promote the growth of new breast cells and increase the size and fullness of the breasts. Of all the herbs used for breast enlargement fenugreek has the highest concentrations of the effective plant compounds. Diosgenin, a steroid sapogenin is the starting compound for over 60% of the total steroid production by the pharmaceutical industry. Other sapogenins found in fenugreek seed include yamogenin, gitogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens.
While Fenugreek is considered the finest herb for enhancing feminine beauty it also aids in sexual stimulation, balances blood sugar levels, and contains choline which aids the thinking process. Fenugreek has been the focus of several studies concerning the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of breast cancer. Its ability to balance hormone levels aids in treating PMS and menopause. Its antioxidants slow ageing and help prevent disease
Fenugreek as galactogogue, An Herb To Increase Milk Supply
Mothers who wish to build their milk supplies may consider using Fenugreek. Fenugreek is an herb that has long been used by healers as medicine, and as a galactogogue (to boost milk supply). Historically, fenugreek is an herb, trigonella foenum-graecum L, and is grown in various countries around the world including Argentina, France, India, and North Africa, and in the Mediterranean countries. The dried ripe seed of the plant is used, with one active ingredient being diosgenin.
The dose is 2-3 capsules (580-610 mg each), taken by mouth 3 times/day. Taking a lesser dose may not increase supply. Results are often noticed in 1-3 days, although some mothers report no improvement. There is no reliable clinical research that supports the use of this herb, although many practitioners do use it with breastfeeding mothers with good success. Fenugreek is used in artificial maple flavorings, and also has a food product. If used to build milk supply, Fenugreek can generally be discontinued after milk supply is increased, as long as a mother can regularly breastfeed or pump.
The use of Fenugreek may cause a maple-syrup odor in a mother or baby¡¯s sweat. It can have effects such as lowering blood sugar, and may cause allergy in some sensitive people with a history of asthma. Diabetic or asthmatic or allergic mothers should consult health care providers before using Fenugreek. Use of this herb may cause diarrhea. The FDA generally regards fenugreek as safe, but should not be used by pregnant mothers.
Fenugreek,4-hydroxyisoleucine,Higher insulin production and diabetes and cholesterol levels controlling
Fenugreek contains an amino acid called 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which appears to increase the body's production of insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
Higher insulin production may decrease the amounts of sugar that stay in the blood for many individuals. In some studies of animals and humans with both diabetes and high cholesterol levels, fenugreek lowered cholesterol levels as well as blood sugar levels.
Fenugreek:Other benefits
The plant has also been employed against bronchitis, fevers, sore throats, wounds swollen glands, skin irritations, diabetes, ulcers, and in the treatment of cancer. Fenugreek has been used to promote lactation and as an aphrodisiac.
Some evidence suggests that fenugreek may also have other medical uses. It may reduce the amounts of calcium oxalate in the kidneys. Calcium oxalate often contributes to kidney stones. In animal studies, fenugreek also appeared to lessen the chance of developing colon cancer by blocking the action of certain enzymes.
Topically, the gelatinous texture of fenugreek seed may have some benefit for soothing skin that is irritated by eczema or other conditions. It has also been applied as a warm poultice to relieve muscle aches and gout pain.
Fenugreek Seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum; Hu Lu Ba) 10:1 Extract Powder:
This is a potent 10 to 1 powdered extract, meaning that one gram of extract is equal in potency to 10 grams of herb. This extract is packed in Plum Flower Brand's nitrogen-flushed, safety-sealed dispenser bottle, a sample of which is pictured above. Plum Flower is one of the most distinguished herb houses in the world. This is a pure herbal product with no additives. Extracted from sulfur-free and chlorine-free herbs for superior quality. Manufactured in a low-temperature water extraction process to preserve herb integrity. Extracted essential oils are replenished for proper potency. Strict quality control testing to ensure microbiological and heavy metal safety. Only powdered herb added to maintain purity (no artificial fillers such as lactose, cellulose or starch used). TLC (Thin-layer Chromatography) tested to guarantee product quality. Plum Flower takes great care to preserve delicate herbal oils, which are first evaporated using either a water or water-alcohol base in a process that never exceeds 100 centigrade. Sealed vacuum chargers precisely control the temperature, ensuring that none of the oils are lost. Cheaper, high-temperature methods are common industry practice, but these tend to burn off the vital oils. Herbs are also tested to ensure that the formulas surpass all FDA guidelines regarding heavy metals.
Medicinal virtues: The decoction, made with dates, and afterwards made into a syrup with honey, cleanses the breast, chest and lungs and may be taken with success for any complaint thereof, except a fever or a headache, as it will increase rather than alleviate those disorders.
It is good for women afflicted with an imposthurne, ulcer, or stoppage in the matrix, to sit in a decoction of the seeds. A suppository made of the juice, and conveyed to the neck of the matrix, will mollify and soften all hardness thereof.
Modern uses: One of the oldest medicinal plants and still a very useful article in herbal practice. Fenugreek tea made from the seeds is used as a gargle in sore throats and for fevers. The drink is mucilaginous, nutritious, and soothing to the intestinal canal. It is made by pouring 1 Pt (568 mi) Of boiling water on to i oz (30 g) of the seeds, and allowing them to infuse for a few minxites. Poultices are made from the powdered seeds to which powdered char- coal can be added. They are effective for wounds, ulcers and boils.
Pharmacology of Fenugreek Seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum; Hu Lu Ba):
Effect on milk production:
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) appears to be the herb that is most often used to increase milk supply. It is an excellent galactagogue, and has been used as such for centuries. In one study of ten women, "the use of fenugreek significantly increased volume of breastmilk" [Swafford 2000].
Mothers generally notice an increase in production 24-72 hours after starting the herb, but it can take two weeks for others to see a change.
Dosages of less than 6 capsules/day (approx 3500 mg/day) produce no effect in many women. One way to determine if you're taking the correct dosage is to slowly increase the amount of fenugreek until your sweat and urine begin to smell like maple syrup. If you're having problems with any side effects, discontinue use and consider alternative methods of increasing milk supply.
Fenugreek can be used either short-term to boost milk supply or long-term to augment supply and/or pumping yields. There are no studies indicating problems with long-term usage. Per Kathleen Huggins "Most mothers have found that the herb can be discontinued once milk production is stimulated to an appropriate level. Adequate production is usually maintained as long as sufficient breast stimulation and emptying continues" [Huggins].
Fenugreek has been used traditionally to treat diabetes, coughs, congestion, bronchitis, fever, high blood pressure, headaches/migraines, diarrhea, flatulence, anaemia, irregular menstrual cycles and arthritis, to ease labor pains and menstruation pain, and as an appetite stimulant. Fenugreek has also been used as an external poultice to control inflammation and dandruff.
There is current research being done on using fenugreek for diabetes, high cholesterol, inflammatory bowel disease and gastric ulcers.
A Friend tell me that:"IN MY LAWN BY THE WAY I HAVE GROWN THE FENUGREEK AND I CUT THE GREEN LEAVES OF THE FENUGREEK AND COOK WITH ONION AND SALT AND PEPPERS AND PUT LITTLE PIECE OF POTATOES.",So you know Fenugreek also could be good food and cooked with onion and peppers.
You may try if you would like to tatste, this is a good thing, and my friend said "ACTUALLY, HERBS ARE THE GOD GIVEN GIFT TO THE MANKIND AND I LOVE A PERSON WHO LOVE THE HERBS.",So we must thanks God and thanks ALLAN present such a good "GIFT" to livings.
Cholesterol-lowering effects: Fecal bile acid and cholesterol excretion are increased by fenugreek administration. This may be secondary to a reaction between the bile acids and fenugreek-derived saponins causing the formation of micelles too large for the digestive tract to absorb. Another hypothesis attributes the cholesterol-lowering activities to the fiber-rich gum portion of the seed that reduces the rate of hepatic synthesis of cholesterol. It is likely that both mechanisms contribute to the overall effect.
Animal data: Studies have clearly demonstrated the cholesterol-lowering activity of fenugreek in animals. In a typical study, fractions of fenugreek seeds were added to the diets of diabetic hypercholesterolemic and normal dogs. The defatted fraction, which contains about 54% fiber and about 5% steroidal saponins, lowered plasma cholesterol, blood glucose, and plasma glucagon levels from pretreatment values in both groups of dogs.The hypocholesterolemic effect has been reproduced in rats. Administration of the fiber-rich fraction of fenugreek to diabetic rats lowered total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low density lipoprotein (LDL). The level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) was increased.
Clinical data: Serum triglycerides were reduced from baseline in patients with newly-diagnosed, mild, type-2 diabetes mellitus who received a hydroalcoholic extract of fenugreek seeds 1 g/day. Total cholesterol and proportions of LDL and HDL fractions were not altered by treatment. A systematic review identified 5 other randomized clinical trials (N = 140) investigating the cholesterol-lowering effects of fenugreek seeds. Reductions (15% to 33%) of serum cholesterol from baseline were reported in all the trials identified. One small study using an aqueous extract of fenugreek leaves in healthy volunteers showed cholesterol reductions compared with control subjects after a single dose. Dose-dependent hypocholesterolemic effects of germinated fenugreek seeds also have been demonstrated.Total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol were reduced, while HDL cholesterol remained unchanged.
Glucose-lowering effects: The galactomannan-rich soluble fiber fraction of fenugreek may be responsible for the antidiabetic activity of the seeds. Insulinotrophic and antidiabetic properties also have been associated with the amino acid 4-hydroxyisoleucine that occurs in fenugreek at a concentration of about 0.55%. In vitro studies have indicated that this amino acid causes direct pancreatic beta-cell stimulation. Delayed gastric emptying and inhibition of glucose transport also have been postulated as possible mechanisms.
Animal data: Multiple studies have been undertaken to demonstrate the glucose-lowering effects of fenugreek. A typical study evaluated the hypoglycemic effects of the seeds in dogs. The defatted fraction of the seeds lowered blood glucose levels, plasma glucagons, and somatostatin levels; carbohydrate-induced hyperglycemia also was reduced.
Clinical data: Glycemic control was improved in a small study of patients with mild type-2 diabetes mellitus. A reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and increased insulin sensitivity were observed in fenugreek recipients. The preparation was well tolerated, with no patients withdrawing from the study because of adverse effects. Patients receiving the fenugreek preparation also were allowed to receive adjuvant antidiabetic preparations if required; caution is advised in the interpretation of these results.
Anti-inflammatory effects:
Animal data: Rats treated with a single dose of fenugreek extract 100 or 200 mg/kg showed a dose-related response when treated with carrageenin. Inhibition of inflammatory swelling was 45% and 62% in the lower and higher dose groups, respectively, compared with 100% in untreated animals.
Clinical data: Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of fenugreek as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Antitumor activity: A French patent has been granted to a product purported to have antitumor activity, especially against fibromas. The product contains extracts of several herbal products, including fenugreek.
Animal data: Pretreatment with a fenugreek extract was found to enhance macrophage cell counts in rats. When these rats were subsequently inoculated with tumor cells, tumor cell growth was inhibited.
Clinical data: Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of fenugreek as an antitumor agent.
Antioxidant effects: High levels of polyphenolic flavonoids (more than 100 mg per 100 g) have been isolated from fenugreek seeds. These have been associated with dose-dependent protection of erythrocytes from antioxidant damage in an in vitro study.
Animal data: Simultaneous administration of an aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds with ethanol prevented the harmful effects of alcohol on lipid peroxidation and enzyme markers of hepatotoxicity. Histopathological examination of liver and brain confirmed these findings, indicating that fenugreek could offer some protection against ethanol toxicity.
Clinical data: Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of fenugreek as an antioxidant.
Other uses:
The seeds are rich in protein, and the plant is grown as animal forage. Diosgenin, a precursor used in commercial steroid synthesis, is extracted from the seeds. The remaining residue is rich in nitrogen and potassium and is used as an agricultural fertilizer.
Because the seeds contain up to 50% of mucilaginous fiber, they have been used in the preparation of topical poultices and emollients; internally this ability to swell in volume has been utilized to relieve constipation and diarrhea.
Reduction in cataract incidence has been demonstrated in diabetic rats receiving an extract of fenugreek seeds and leaves. After 115 days of treatment, cataracts were diagnosed in 25% of fenugreek recipients compared with 100% of diabetic controls. Oral administration of fenugreek seed fractions resulted in dose-dependent gastric protection against the effects of ethanol (a necrotizing agent). The seeds were as effective as omeprazole, a clinically-recognized antiulcer agent. Ulcer scores indicated that the soluble gel fraction was more effective than the aqueous extract or omeprazole.
Safety of Fenugreek:
Side Effects: Use of more than 100 grams of seeds daily can cause intestinal upset and nausea. Otherwise, fenugreek is extremely safe.
Fenugreek is used to flavor artificial maple syrup, and is used as a common food ingredient (curries, chutneys, etc.) and traditional medicine in many parts of the world, including India, Greece, China, north Africa and the Middle East. It is a basic ingredient of curry powder (often used in Indian cooking) and the Five Spice mixtures (used in Asian cooking). It is also eaten as a salad and sprouted.
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; see the side effects and safety information below.
Per Hale [Hale 2002], "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).
Dosage of Fenugreek: Due to the somewhat bitter taste of fenugreek seeds, debitterized seeds or encapsulated products are preferred. The typical range of intake is 5 - 30 grams with each meal or 15 - 90 grams all at once with one meal.
Studies in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia have used 5 g/day of seeds or 1 g/day of a hydroalcoholic extract of fenugreek.
Toxicity Study:
Acute Toxicity of Fenugreek extract: LD50.Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Fenugreek Extract.Intraperitoneal.Rosent-rat.>1 gram(1000mgs)/kg.
The acute toxicity from a large dose of fenugreek has not been characterized, but may result in hypoglycemia. It is probable that toxicity is low; the LD 50 of fenugreek extract was more than 1 g/kg when administered intraperitonealy to rats.
Reference:Sur P, Das M, Gomes A, et al. Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) seed extract as an antineoplastic agent. Phytother Res . 2001;15:257-259.
Acute Toxicity of Trigonelline:
LD50.Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Oral.Rodent-rat.5 gm(5000 mgs)/kg.Details of toxic effects not reported other than lethal dose value. Reference:AIPTAK Archives Internationales de Pharmacodynamie et de Therapie.(Heymans Institute of Pharmacology,De Pintelaan 185,B-9000 Ghent,Belgium)V.4-1898-Volume(issue)/page/year:210,27,1974. LD50.Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Subcutaneous.Rodent-rat.5 gm(5000 mgs)/kg.Details of toxic effects not reported other than lethal dose value. Reference:PSEBAA Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine.(Academic Press, Inc.,1 E.First St.,Duluth,MN55802)V.1-1903/04-Volume(issue)/page/year:62,19,1946.
Mutagenic Data of Trigonelline: Mutation in microorganisms.Bacteria.Salmonella typhimurium.1 mmol/plate.
Reference:MUREAV Mutation Research.(Elsevier Science Pub.B.V.,POB211,1000AE Amsterdam,Netherlands)V.1-1964-Volume(issue)/page/year:391,171,1997.
Possible side effects and cautions of fenugreek:
Adverse Reactions:
Sweat and urine smells like maple syrup; milk and/or breastfed baby may smell like maple syrup.
Occasionally causes loose stools, which go away when fenugreek is discontinued.
Use of more than 100 grams of fenugreek seeds daily can cause intestinal distress and nausea (recommended dose is less than 8 grams per day).
Repeated external applications can result in undesirable skin reactions [Wichtl 1994].
Ingestion of fenugreek seeds or tea in infants or late-term pregnant women can lead to false diagnosis of maple syrup urine disease in the infant due to presence of sotolone in the urine. See [Korman 2001] and other studies on fenugreek and maple syrup urine smell.
When ingested in culinary quantities, fenugreek usually is devoid of adverse reactions. However, a case of hypersensitivity to curry powder has been linked to ingestion of the spice.Rechallenge with individual ingredients of the powder elicited bronchospasm and bowel symptoms with fenugreek and cardamom.
Patients receiving a hydroalcoholic extract of fenugreek seeds in clinical trials have reported dyspepsia and mild abdominal distention for the first few days of treatment. These conditions subsided on continuation of therapy.
False diagnosis of maple syrup urine disease (see Pregnancy/Lactation) has been reported in several infants who were given fenugreek-containing herbal teas.
Use with caution or avoid if you have a history of:
Peanut or chickpea allergy: Fenugreek is in the same family with peanuts and chickpeas, and may cause an allergic reaction in moms who are allergic to these things. Two cases of fenugreek allergy have been reported in the literature. [Patil 1997, Ohnuma 1998, Lawrence 1999]
Diabetes or hypoglycemia: Fenugreek reduces blood glucose levels, and in the few studies using it as a hypoglycemic, also reduces blood cholesterol. Dosages higher than the recommended one (given above) may result in hypoglycemia in some mothers [Heller]. If you're diabetic (IDDM), use fenugreek only if you have good control of your blood glucose levels. While taking this, closely monitor your fasting levels and post-prandial (after meals) levels. Mothers with hypoglycemia should also use fenugreek with caution. For more on fenugreek and glucose levels, see the references below.
Asthma: Fenugreek is often cited as a natural remedy for asthma. However, inhalation of the powder can cause asthma and allergic symptoms. Some mothers have reported that it worsened their asthma symptoms. [Dugue 1993, Huggins, Lawrence 1999].
Abnormal menstrual cycles: Fenugreek is considered to be an emmenagogue (promotes menstrual flow). Per [White], it may cause breakthrough menstrual bleeding; this source recommends using fenugreek with caution if you have a history of abnormal menstrual cycles.
Migraines: Fenugreek is often cited as a natural remedy for migraines. However, [White] indicates that it may trigger a migraine and/or contribute to the duration and severity of a migraine.
Blood pressure problems or heart disease: Fenugreek is commonly reported to lower blood pressure and LDL blood cholesterol levels. [White] indicates, however, that it may cause or contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure) - this source recommends avoiding this herb if you have a history of hypertension, or if there is a strong family history of hypertension or heart disease.
Pregnancy/Lactation: Fenugreek has documented uterine stimulant effects and has been used in traditional medicine to induce childbirth and hasten delivery by promoting uterine contractions. Avoid use in pregnancy.
Maple syrup urine disease, a disorder of branched-chain amino acid catabolism that results in abnormal accumulations of the amino acids and their metabolites, was suspected in a healthy infant born to a mother who ingested a paste prepared from fenugreek seeds early in labor.Fenugreek, maple syrup, and the urine of patients with the disease share a characteristic odor originating from a common ingredient, sotolone. The seeds have been used in traditional medicine to augment milk supply in nursing women. The extent of transmission of fenugreek-derived constituents into breast milk is unknown.
Drug interactions of Fenugreek
Oral drugs or herbs taken at the same time as fenugreek may have delayed absorption due to the mucilage content of fenugreek. [Wichtl 1994]
Glipizide and other antidiabetic drugs
Fenugreek reduces blood glucose levels and may enhance the effects of these drugs.
Insulin:
Fenugreek reduces blood glucose levels, so insulin dosage may need to be adjusted.
Heparin, Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Ticlopidine and other platelet inhibitors
The fenugreek plant contains several coumarin compounds. Although studies have not shown any problems, it potentially could cause bleeding if combined with these types of drugs.
MAOIs:
Fenugreek contains amine and has the potential to augment the effect of these drugs.
Drug Interaction References: [Wichtl 1994] Fenugreek drug interactions from Healthnotes;Fenugreek drug interactions from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Fenugreek use during pregnancy
Medicinal doses of fenugreek, not the amounts used in curries, are considered a uterine stimulant. Fenugreek has been used to aid and induce labor [Dehlvi, Bingel 1991, IntelliHealth] and is considered to be an emmenagogue [Turner]. For this reason, fenugreek use is not recommended during pregnancy (particularly late pregnancy).
Fenugreek is used as a morning sickness remedy in Chinese medicine. [Richmond]
"Use only in moderation during pregnancy. A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb or during labour." [Ody 1999]
Motherlove Herbal lists fenugreek as a cleansing herb which is "too strong or irritating" to be used during pregnancy. [Motherlove]
One study effectively used fenugreek as a source of fiber to control blood glucose and lipid levels of pregnant diabetic women. [Madar 1987]
"A stimulant effect on the isolated uterus (guinea pig) has been reported and its use in late pregnancy may not be advisable." [Hale 2002]
"Water and alcohol extracts of fenugreek are oxytocic. They stimulate contraction of uterine smooth muscles during the last period of pregnancy according to studies on isolated guinea pig uterus tissue." [Willard 1991]
"Fenugreek exerts an oxytocic effect in guinea pigs. Its use in humans has not been sufficiently studied, but could potentially lead to SAB or preterm labor and prematurity secondary to its oxytocic effects. Its use in pregnancy is not recommended." [Rice]
Not recommended during pregnancy. [CommE, Brinker 1998, McGuffin 1997, MHO]
Possible side effects for baby:
Most of the time, baby is unaffected by mom's use of fenugreek (except that more milk is usually available). Sometimes baby will smell like maple syrup, too (just like mom). However, some moms have noticed that baby is fussy and/or has green, watery stools when mom is taking fenugreek and the symptoms go away when mom discontinues the fenugreek.
Fenugreek can cause GI symptoms in mom (upset stomach, diarrhea), so it's possible for it to cause GI symptoms in baby too. Also anyone can have an allergic reaction to any herb, and fenugreek allergy, though rare, has been documented.
Another reason for these types of symptoms,and perhaps more likely than a reaction to the herb,may be that mom's supply has increased due to the fenugreek and the symptoms are those of oversupply, where baby is getting too much foremilk. Fussiness, gas and green watery stools are classic symptoms of an overabundant milk supply.
Trigonelline (nicotinic acid betaine) from fenugreek:
Trigonelline as mammary glands estrogens:
Fenugreek is a unique herb rich in phyto-estrogens. Fenugreek aids in hormonal production, and facilitates the development of the mammary glands which 'feed' on estrogens. Trigonelline.
Traditionally used by Greek women to increase breast size, this unique herb has in recent times been scientifically proven to create a mastogenic effect, or growth effect, of healthy breast tissue. The phytochemical diosgenin and estrogenic isoflavones Trigonelline (nicotinic acid betaine) found in the seeds augment the production of estrogen in the body, essentially the key to fuller and shapelier breasts.
Determination of trigonelline by HPLC and study on its pharmacokinetics:
Methods: After ig of fenugreek extract and i.v. of trigonelline in rabbit, the biological samples could be well purified after precipitation of protein with methanol and acetonitrile. Asahipak NH2P-50 column was used, the mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile-water (90:10) at a flow-rate of 1.2 mL.min-1, and detection wavelength was set at UV 265 nm. The column temperature is 30 degrees C.
Results: The calibration curve was linear in the range from 0.98 mg.L-1 to 31.28 mg.L-1, with r = 0.9986, the detection limit of this method was 50 micrograms.L-1. The concentration-time curves of trigonelline in rabbits after ig and i.v. administration were shown to fit one-compartment and two-compartment open model, respectively. The main parameters after ig of fenugreek extract were as follow: T1/2(Ka) was 0.9 h, T1/2(Ke) was 2.2 h, V was 0.64 L.kg-1, AUC was 1.93 mg.min.L-1. The main parameters after i.v. of trigonelline were as follows: T1/2 alpha was 10.8 min, T1/2 beta was 44.0 min, K21 was 0.044 min-1, K10 was 0.026 min-1, K12 was 0.017 min-1, AUC was 931.0 mg.min.L-1.
Conclusion: Trigonelline showed a middle rate of absorption and fast rate of elimination in rabbit. Meanwhile, the method is simple, accurate, with a good reproducibility, and it provide a basic method for the investigation of trigonelline and fenugreek pharmacokinetics.
Scientific References:
1.A letter from Friend Mr.ZAFFAR MINHAS:"DEAR MR. MICHAEL DERRIDA-ALLAH BLESS YOU"
2.Fenugreek Trigonella Foenum-Graecum.
Claims & Warning:
Claims: Information this web site presented is meant for Nutritional Benefit and as an educational starting point only, for use in maintenance and promotion good health in cooperation with a common knowledge base reference...Furthermore,it based solely on the traditional and historic use or legend of a given herb from the garden of Adonis. Although every effort has been made to ensure its accurate, please note that some info may be outdated by more recent scientific developments......
Pharmakon Warning: The order of knowledge is not the transparent order of forms and ideas,as one might be tempted retrospectively to interpret it; it is the antidote....(Dissemination,Plato's Pharmacy,II.The Ingredients:Phantasms,Festivals,and Paints;138cf. Jacques Derrida.).
And as it happens,the technique of imitation,along with the production of the simulacrum,has always been in Plato's eyes manifestly magical,thaumaturgical:......and the same things appear bent and straight to those who view them in water and out,or concave and convex,owing to similar errors of vision about colors, and there is obviously every confusion of this sort in our souls.And so scene painting (skiagraphia) in its exploitation of this weakness of four nature falls nothing short of witchcraft (thaumatopoia), and so do jugglery and many other such contrivances.(Republic X,602c-d;cf.also 607c).
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Serie No.:R004.Basic Data Sheet Download
.
seminal trace...Fenugreek.Trigonella Foenum-Graecum.Fenugreek Seed Extract.CAS.NO:68990-15-8.10:1, 20:1.l-4-hydroxyisoleucine 20%HPLC.Trigonelline as mammary glands estrogens,nicotinic acid betaine.Fenugreek.trigonella foenum graecum seed extract .fenugreek seed meal....
Botanical Basic Data:Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum)
Nutritional Profile:Fenugreek Seed--Trigonella foenum-graecum (Leguminosae) 
Medicinal Properties: The seed is a source of the steroidal saponin diosgenin, which can be used to manufacture many pharmaceuticals, such as progesterone. The chemical trigonelline is converted into niacin when the seed is roasted. The seeds also provide a mucilaginous fiber content that may benefit the bowel. Of more current interest is the evidence that fenugreek has a minor hypoglycemic effect, thus suggesting it may, in fact, help with diabetes. There is also some evidence that it can reduce hypercholesterolemia in animals.
Scientific References:
Claims & Warning:
