Research
Fenugreek
58 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
The Effect of Fenugreek on the Severity of Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of four studies assessing the effect of fenugreek on dysmenorrhea severity. Fenugreek reduced pain intensity compared to placebo but showed no significant difference compared to mefenamic acid or Chandrasura churna. The evidence quality was low, and further clinical trials are recommended.
Effect of Fenugreek on Hyperglycemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 trials with 894 participants assessing the hypoglycemic effects of fenugreek. Results showed reductions in fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c levels with fenugreek consumption, though study quality and heterogeneity remain concerns.
The Anabolic Effect of Fenugreek: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.
Systematic review with meta-analysis evaluating the effects of fenugreek on strength performance, body composition, and hormone concentration in male athletes. The analysis detected small positive effects on total and free testosterone, lean body mass, fat mass, and leg press performance.
The Effects of Fenugreek Seed Consumption on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of six RCTs with 373 participants examining the effects of fenugreek seed on blood pressure. Fenugreek seed supplementation significantly reduced systolic blood pressure but not diastolic blood pressure. Subgroup analyses indicated effectiveness at dosages ≥ 15 g/day and durations ≤ 12 weeks.
Fenugreek and Its Effects on Muscle Performance: A Systematic Review
Systematic review of literature on fenugreek extracts and muscle performance, including six RCTs. Fenugreek supplementation improved muscle strength, endurance, lean body mass, and reduced body fat. Mixed results on muscle glycogen resynthesis during recovery. Fenugreek showed anabolic and androgenic activity, influencing testosterone levels and muscle performance.
Effect of fenugreek consumption on serum lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effect of fenugreek supplementation on human serum lipid profile. It included 15 RCTs with 281 cases consuming fenugreek. The analysis showed that fenugreek significantly lowered total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides, while increasing high-density lipoprotein levels, particularly in diabetic subjects.
Effects of fenugreek seed extract on luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
RCT of 150 women with PCOS comparing fenugreek + metformin, fenugreek only, and metformin only. Fenugreek seed extract showed beneficial effects on gonadotropin balance, reducing LH levels, increasing FSH levels, and decreasing the LH/FSH ratio, suggesting its potential as a complementary intervention.
Effect of a plant extract of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on testosterone in blood plasma and saliva in a double blind randomized controlled intervention study.
A randomized double-blind trial with 95 men aged 40-80 assessed the impact of TrigozimR fenugreek extract on testosterone levels. The study found that saliva testosterone concentration increased significantly with fenugreek extract compared to placebo, while plasma testosterone showed increases only compared to baseline. No subjective effects or side-effects were observed.
Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed powder on lipid profile: A single blind placebo controlled study
Single blind placebo controlled study on 60 patients with dyslipidemia to assess the effect of fenugreek seed powder on serum lipid profile. Significant decreases were observed in serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, with no effect on HDL cholesterol, and no major side effects.
Comparison of the Effects of Fenugreek Vaginal Cream and Ultra Low- Dose Estrogen on Atrophic Vaginitis.
RCT comparing the effects of fenugreek vaginal cream to ultra-low-dose estrogen on atrophic vaginitis in 60 postmenopausal women. Fenugreek extract was effective in treating signs of atrophic vaginitis, but not as effective as estrogen.
Efficacy of fenugreek seed extract on men's psychological and physical health: a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial
Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of fenugreek seed extract in 57 healthy men. Fenugreek supplementation improved aging male symptoms, anxiety levels, grip strength, and health-related quality of life compared to placebo.
Effect of phytoestrogens on sexual function in menopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of phytoestrogens on sexual disorders and dyspareunia in menopausal women. Phytoestrogens from Lepidium meyenii, Foeniculum vulgare, maritime pine bark, and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. significantly improved sexual function, while soy, red clover, Korean red ginseng, and flaxseed did not show significant effects.
Effectiveness of fenugreek as a galactagogue: A network meta-analysis.
A network meta-analysis of five studies with 122 participants assessed the galactagogue effect of fenugreek in lactating women. Fenugreek significantly increased breast milk production compared to placebo, though it was less effective than Coleus amboinicus Lour and palm date.
Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) intake on glycemia: a meta-analysis of clinical trials.
Meta-analysis of clinical trials assessing the effect of fenugreek intake on glycemic control. Fenugreek significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, 2 hour postload glucose, and HbA1c levels compared to control interventions, particularly in persons with diabetes receiving medium or high doses.
Effectiveness of Fenugreek as an Adjuvant in the Management of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
RCT evaluating fenugreek as an adjuvant in managing oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) including leukoplakia, lichen planus, and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Significant improvement in mouth opening and cheek flexibility was observed in the fenugreek group for OSMF, while no significant differences were noted for leukoplakia and lichen planus.
Effect of fenugreek seed supplementation on fasting and postprandial blood glucose level in type 2 diabetic subjects
Clinical trial of 49 type 2 diabetic patients evaluating the effect of 10 g/day fenugreek seed powder supplementation on blood glucose levels. The exposed group showed significant reductions in fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels compared to the control group, with some patients reaching a non-diabetic state.
Safety and influence of a novel extract of fenugreek on healthy young women: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
RCT of 48 healthy menstruating women comparing fenugreek extract (FHE) to placebo for 42 days. FHE showed significant beneficial effects on sexual dysfunction and irritability, and increased estradiol and testosterone levels without adverse effects.
Efficacy of a novel extract of fenugreek seeds in alleviating vasomotor symptoms and depression in perimenopausal women: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.
This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of a standardized fenugreek extract (FHE) on perimenopausal symptoms in 48 women. The FHE group showed significant improvements in vasomotor symptoms, depression, and hormonal balance without adverse effects.
Effects of Momordica charantia (Bittergourd) and Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) Supplements in Type-2 Diabetics Taking Allopathic Drugs
Open-label, 4-parallel-group clinical trial on 48 Type-2 diabetics assessing Bittergourd and Fenugreek supplements. Bittergourd juice + Fenugreek significantly lowered fasting and postprandial blood sugar. Fenugreek and Bittergourd juice + Fenugreek lowered serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol, with Fenugreek alone increasing HDL-cholesterol.
Comparison of the efficacy of oral fenugreek seeds hydroalcoholic extract versus placebo in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; a randomized, triple-blind controlled pilot clinical trial.
This randomized, triple-blind controlled pilot clinical trial investigated the therapeutic property of hydroalcoholic extract of Fenugreek seeds in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adult patients. Thirty patients with confirmed NAFLD were divided into two groups to receive either 1 g hydroalcoholic extract of Fenugreek seeds or placebo daily for 3 months. The study found no statistically significant changes in anthropometrics, laboratory data, or FibroScan measurements between the two groups.
The effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum extract on prostate-specific antigen, and prostate function in otherwise healthy men with benign prostate hyperplasia.
Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effect of 600mg Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) extract on symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia in 100 healthy males. The study found no effect on improving BPH symptoms, hormone levels, or prostate-specific antigen, supporting the safety profile of the extract.
Fenugreek dermal patch, a new natural topical antinociceptive medication for relieving the postherniotomy pain, a double-blind placebo controlled trial.
Double-blind placebo-controlled trial studying the effect of a 10% fenugreek transdermal patch for managing post-operative pain in inguinal hernia patients. The fenugreek patch significantly reduced pain scores and decreased morphine consumption compared to placebo and diclofenac patch.
The Safety of Mother's Milk® Tea: Results of a Randomized Double-Blind, Controlled Study in Fully Breastfeeding Mothers and Their Infants.
This double-blind, randomized controlled trial evaluated the safety of a galactagogue tea containing fenugreek, bitter fennel, anise, and coriander in breastfeeding women and their infants. No adverse effects were reported, and no differences were found between the test and placebo groups in various measures, indicating no safety risk associated with the tea.
Effects of Fenugreek, Ginger, and Turmeric Supplementation on Human Milk Volume and Nutrient Content in Breastfeeding Mothers: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Randomized double-blind controlled trial of 50 exclusively breastfeeding mothers comparing mixed herbal supplementation containing fenugreek, ginger, and turmeric to placebo. The herbal group showed a significant increase in milk volume at weeks 2 and 4, with no difference in milk nutrient content or adverse effects.
Insulin-Sensitizer Effects of Fenugreek Seeds in Parallel with Changes in Plasma MCH Levels in Healthy Volunteers.
The study assessed the insulin-sensitizing effect of fenugreek seeds in healthy volunteers using a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic glucose clamp approach. Results showed significant improvement in glucose tolerance, particularly in individuals with impaired glucose responses, and suggested that fenugreek seed intake-mediated improvement in insulin sensitivity correlated with reduction in MCH levels.
Efficacy of a Proprietary Trigonella foenum-graecum L. De-Husked Seed Extract in Reducing Menopausal Symptoms in Otherwise Healthy Women: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study.
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial assessing the efficacy of a standardized Trigonella foenum-graecum de-husked seed extract in reducing menopausal symptoms in 115 healthy women. The active group showed significant improvements in menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual domains, compared to placebo.
A multicenter clinical study to determine the efficacy of a novel fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum) extract (Fenfuro™) in patients with type 2 diabetes
This multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study evaluated the efficacy of Fenfuro, a fenugreek seed extract, in 154 subjects with type 2 diabetes over 90 days. Fenfuro significantly reduced fasting and post-prandial blood sugar levels and HbA1c levels, with 48.8% of subjects reducing their anti-diabetic therapy dosage.
A Novel Extract of Fenugreek Husk (FenuSMART™) Alleviates Postmenopausal Symptoms and Helps to Establish the Hormonal Balance: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of 90-day supplementation of a standardized extract of fenugreek (FenuSMART) on plasma estrogens and postmenopausal discomforts in 88 women. The extract-treated group showed significant increases in plasma estradiol and improvements in postmenopausal symptoms and quality of life compared to placebo.
Influence of a Specialized Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract (Libifem), on Testosterone, Estradiol and Sexual Function in Healthy Menstruating Women, a Randomised Placebo Controlled Study.
RCT evaluating the effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extract on sex hormones and sexual function in 80 healthy menstruating women with low sexual drive. The study found significant increases in free testosterone, estradiol, sexual desire, and arousal in the active group compared to placebo.
Effect of Fenugreek Seeds on Serum Metabolic Factors and Adiponectin Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients.
Triple-blind RCT of 88 type 2 diabetic patients comparing 10 g/d fenugreek seeds to placebo for 8 weeks. Fenugreek significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin, insulin resistance, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increased adiponectin levels, suggesting benefits for glucose metabolism and serum lipid profile.
Efficacy and safety of standardized extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum L seeds as an adjuvant to L-Dopa in the management of patients with Parkinson's disease.
Double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study of standardized fenugreek extract (IBHB) as an adjuvant to L-Dopa in 50 Parkinson's disease patients. IBHB treatment showed slower rise in UPDRS scores and improvement in H&Y staging compared to placebo, with excellent safety and tolerability.
The effect of galactagogue herbal tea on breast milk production and short-term catch-up of birth weight in the first week of life.
RCT of 66 mother-infant pairs evaluating the effect of maternal herbal tea containing fenugreek on breast milk production and infant weight gain. Infants in the fenugreek group had significantly lower maximum weight loss and regained birth weight earlier. Mothers in the fenugreek group had higher breast milk volume compared to placebo and control groups.
Physiological aspects of male libido enhanced by standardized Trigonella foenum-graecum extract and mineral formulation.
Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study evaluating the effect of Testofen, a standardized Fenugreek extract and mineral formulation, on male libido in 60 healthy males. Testofen showed a significant positive effect on physiological aspects of libido, including sexual arousal and orgasm, and improved self-reported satisfaction with muscle strength, energy, and well-being.
Is dietary fiber beneficial in chronic ischemic heart disease?
Prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of 114 patients with chronic ischemic heart disease evaluating the effects of Fibernat, a dietary fiber preparation. Fibernat improved LDL cholesterol, Apolipoprotein A-1, body mass index, and waist circumference, showing favorable effects on heart health.
Field Evaluation of Salt Stress and Fertilization Effects (Organic and Inorganic) on Seed Yield, Proximate Seed Composition, Seed Elemental Composition and Protein Content in Fenugreek
Field study evaluating the effects of salinity and different fertilization types on seed quality and biochemical characteristics of fenugreek. Organic fertilization with Biocyclic-Vegan Humus Soil yielded the best results, improving plant height, seed protein content, seed yield, and mineral content. Elevated salinity impacted the concentrations of several elements and seed traits.
Reduction of postprandial blood glucose in healthy subjects by buns and flatbreads incorporated with fenugreek seed powder.
Randomized controlled crossover trial with 10 healthy subjects testing the effect of fenugreek seed powder on glycemic response. Buns and flatbreads with 10% fenugreek showed significantly lower glycemic response and glycemic index compared to those without fenugreek.
Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. on Metabolic Activity of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4.
The study investigated the effect of fenugreek seeds powder and its alcoholic extract on the metabolic activity of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 using dextromethorphan as a probe. In vitro, fenugreek extract inhibited CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 activity at higher concentrations, but in vivo, fenugreek did not significantly affect the metabolic activity of these enzymes.
Fenugreek bread: a treatment for diabetes mellitus.
A double-blind, randomized controlled trial tested a fenugreek bread formula on eight diet-controlled diabetic subjects. The study found that the fenugreek bread reduced insulin resistance compared to regular wheat bread, with a significant reduction in the area under the curve for insulin.
Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study.
Double blind placebo controlled study evaluating the effects of fenugreek seeds on glycemic control and insulin resistance in 25 patients with mild to moderate type 2 diabetes. Fenugreek improved glycemic control, decreased insulin resistance, and had a favorable effect on hypertriglyceridemia.
Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipids in type I diabetes.
RCT evaluating the effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipid profile in Type I diabetic patients. The fenugreek diet significantly reduced fasting blood sugar, improved glucose tolerance, and reduced serum cholesterol and triglycerides.
Glucose-lowering effect of fenugreek in non-insulin dependent diabetics.
The study investigated the effect of fenugreek on postprandial glucose and insulin levels in non-insulin dependent diabetics. Fenugreek significantly reduced postprandial glucose levels, while plasma insulin levels tended to be lower but without statistical significance. Fenugreek had no effect on lipid levels.
Exploring the Antioxidant Potential and HPLC Profile of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) Seed Extracts
The study investigated the antioxidant potential of fenugreek seed extracts using various in vitro assays. The hydromethanolic extract showed the highest reducing power in antioxidant assays, and HPLC identified six phytochemical compounds in the extract.
Potential antifertility activity of aqueous Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extract in female albino rats
The study evaluated the potential antifertility effects of Aqueous Fenugreek Seed Extract (AFSE) in female albino rats. AFSE was administered at various doses, and its impact on implantation rates and female fertility hormones was assessed. The results showed significant reductions in estradiol, FSH, and LH levels, and no pregnancies were recorded in AFSE-treated groups, suggesting potential antifertility activity.
Fenugreek Leaves and Lemon are Mild to Moderately Effective Hypolipidemic Herbs to Lower Total Plasma Cholesterol, Triglycerides, and LDL Cholesterol in Primary and Secondary Hyperlipidemic Patients
The study compared the hypolipidemic effects of Fenugreek, Curcuma longa, and Lemon in 90 hyperlipidemic patients. Fenugreek, Curcuma longa, and Lemon were found to be mild to moderately effective in lowering total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, but did not significantly raise HDL cholesterol.
The ameliorative role of germinated fenugreek and barley grains on the structure and function of offspring’s tibialis muscle maternally fed on high fat diet
The study investigates the impact of maternal high fat diet on rat offspring's tibialis muscle and the protective effects of germinated fenugreek and barley grains. Results showed that dietary supplementation with these grains improved antioxidant capacity, reduced lipid peroxidation, and modulated apoptotic activity in muscle fibers, mitigating negative health outcomes associated with maternal high fat diet.
Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) seed extract on glycemic index, in vitro digestibility, and physical characterization of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) starch.
The study investigated the effect of fenugreek seed extract (FSE) on in vitro starch hydrolysis by pancreatic α-amylase and the ultrastructure of wheat starch. Significant inhibition of enzymatic starch hydrolysis was observed with FSE, suggesting its potential role in controlling blood glucose levels and managing diabetes.
Immune-stimulating and antioxidant properties of a traditional Algerian plant combination: Date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera) and Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
The study evaluated the effects of a traditional Algerian combination of date fruit and fenugreek seeds on phagocytic activity and hepatic glutathione levels in animals. Results showed significant enhancement in both phagocytic activity and GSH levels in animals treated with the plant combination, suggesting a synergistic effect on immune system activity and antioxidant capacity.
Effect of Trigonella foenum‐graecum L. seed extract on the reproductive system of male mice and possible mechanism of its action on spermatogenesis
The study examined the effect of aqueous seed extract of fenugreek on male reproductive health in Parkes mice. Treatment with fenugreek seed extract caused degenerative changes in testis histoarchitecture, affected sperm parameters, and negatively impacted oxidative status and germ cell dynamics, leading to adverse effects on male reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes.
Fenugreek Counters the Effects of High Fat Diet on Gut Microbiota in Mice: Links to Metabolic Benefit
Animal study on C57BL/6J mice fed control/low fat or high fat diets with or without 2% fenugreek for 16 weeks. Fenugreek significantly affected gut microbiota diversity and reversed dysbiotic effects of high fat diet, improving hyperlipidemia and glucose tolerance.
Exploring the Adverse Effects of Fenugreek in Humans: A Scoping Review
This scoping review explored the reported adverse effects associated with fenugreek consumption in humans, including mild gastrointestinal discomfort, hypoglycemia, potential hypokalemia, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications. Fenugreek is generally considered safe, with most side effects being mild and self-limiting.
Effects of boiled fenugreek seed extract on testicular histology and reproductive parameters in adult male mice
Animal study evaluating the effects of boiled aqueous fenugreek seed extract on sperm parameters, testicular histology, and embryo morphology in male mice. No significant differences in reproductive parameters or embryo morphology were observed between treated and control groups.
A REVIEW OF THE EFFECTS OF FENUGREEK (TRIGONELLA FOENUM-GRAECUM L.) SUPPLEMENTATION ON ENDOCRINE FUNCTION, SEXUAL HEALTH, AND MUSCLE PERFORMANCE IN ADULTS
This narrative review presents scientific evidence on the effects of fenugreek seed extract on sex hormone concentrations, sexual function, and muscle performance in adults. Fenugreek is reported to enhance libido, alleviate menopausal symptoms, and improve sexual function in men, with bioactive compounds like saponins contributing to its effects. Potential adverse effects from improper use are also noted.
Hepatic Effects of Prolonged Oral Administration of Aqueous Extracts From Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) Seeds Explored Through Pathology Techniques
Animal study exploring the hepatic impact of prolonged oral ingestion of aqueous extracts from Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) seeds in Norvegicus rattus. Results showed significant increases in serum ALT and AST levels at higher doses, indicating potential hepatotoxicity, while lower doses exhibited antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties.
histological and immunohistochemical studies of the effect germinating fenugreek (trigonella arabica) and barley (hordeum vulgare) grains on spinal cord of 21-day-old offspring rats maternally fed on high fat diet.
Animal study examining the effects of germinating fenugreek and barley grains on the spinal cord of offspring rats maternally fed a high fat diet. Germinating fenugreek and barley grains showed improvements in spinal cord structure and function, likely due to high antioxidant content.
Effects of garden cress, fenugreek and black seed on the pharmacodynamics of metoprolol: an herb-drug interaction study in rats with hypertension
Animal study investigating the effects of garden cress, fenugreek, and black seed on the pharmacodynamics of metoprolol in hypertensive rats. The herbs decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with a greater effect observed when combined with metoprolol.
Impact of Fenugreek on Milk Production in Rodent Models of Lactation Challenge
The study investigated the effect of fenugreek on milk production in rodent models of lactation challenge. Fenugreek increased milk production by 16% in the litter size increase challenge, resulting in an 11% increase in pup growth without adverse effects on dam-litter metabolism. Fenugreek had no effect in the maternal protein restriction challenge.
A Comparative Study of Analgesic, Antipyretic and Anti-inflammatory Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum with Indomethacin and Diclofenac Sodium
The study compared the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects of ethanolic extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds with indomethacin and diclofenac sodium in albino mice. The extract showed positive effects in reducing inflammation, pain, and fever.
Allergy to fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum).
The paper reports two cases of severe allergy to fenugreek, involving symptoms such as rhinorrhea, wheezing, and facial angioedema. Skin scratch tests and double-blind placebo-controlled challenges confirmed sensitivity to fenugreek, with immunoblots showing specific IgE binding to fenugreek proteins.