Fenugreek Herbal tonic
Please read the Fenugreek disease prevention pageModern Day Uses German Commission E approves fenugreek seeds for treatment of anorexia, and for local inflammation. In the rest of Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Upper Africa Fenugreek seeds used in treating colic flatulence, dysentery, diarrhea, dyspepsia with loss of appetite, chronic cough, dropsy, enlargement of liver and spleen, rickets, gout and diabetes. The seed is stated to be a tonic. It is also used in post-natal cure and to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Modern medicine is beginning to provide confirmation of many of the traditional medicinal applications of Fenugreek seeds.
Selected Scientific Studies Lactation Aid Fenugreek seeds contain hormone precursors that increase milk supply. Some scientists 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. For further information please click here For ant-diabetic properties please see DH-1 data. Cholesterol-Lowering Effect Fenugreek has been shown to exert a cholesterol-lowering effect1. In one 24-week study, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and VLDL levels showed a steady decrease over the testing period. Additionally, HDL levels (good cholesterol) showed a 10% increase. Results like this would indicate Fenugreek could be beneficial in preventing and treating atherosclerosis2. It was observed that the steroidal saponins (steroidal glycosides) present in Fenugreek account for many of the beneficial effects of fenugreek, particularly the inhibition of cholesterol absorption and synthesis3-4. One human study found that Fenugreek can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels in persons with moderate atherosclerosis and non-insulin-dependent diabetes5. Immunological Activity Immunomodulatory effects of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) extract in mice has been investigated. Overall, Fenugreek showed a stimulatory effect on immune functions in mice. As it is used for a variety of medicinal purposes, its immunostimulatory effect, as reported in this study, strengthens the rationale of its use in several Unani and Ayurvedic drugs8. Broad Spectrum Antibacterial Activity Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum), Allium cepa, Allium roseumand Curcuma domestica were screened against 26 pathogens and all exhibited broad-spectrum anti-bacterial activity9. Removal of Kidney Stones A study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed and Ammi majus fruit on experimentally-induced kidney stones. Daily oral treatment withT. foenum-graecum significantly decreased the quantity of calcium oxalate deposited in the kidneys thus supporting its use in Saudi folk medicine.
Individuals with peanut allergies should use with caution or avoid all together. Otherwise, fenugreek is extremely safe. Side Effects In theory, fenugreek may increase the risk of bleeding. It is also possible that fenugreek may lower blood sugar levels. There is some evidence that fenugreek may reduce potassium levels in the blood. Ask your health care provider to monitor your potassium level to make sure it does not become too low while you are using fenugreek. Pregnancy During pregnancy, fenugreek should be used with extreme caution because it may cause blood sugar levels to become too low. Because of possible oxytocic (uterine stimulating) effects Fenugreek may exert, this herb should be avoided during pregnancy, unless otherwise directed by physician. Interactions With Drugs Fenugreek may interfere with the absorption of other drugs that are taken orally, and fenugreek should be used at least two hours before or after any prescription drug. In theory, fenugreek may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antiplatelet drugs.