Herbal

Fenugreek extract

Also known as: Trigonella foenum-graecum, fenugreek seed extract, methi

Overview

Fenugreek extract, derived from Trigonella foenum-graecum, has demonstrated potential health benefits in preclinical and clinical studies, particularly in metabolic and oncological contexts. Animal studies indicate that fenugreek seed extract exhibits chemopreventive properties against breast cancer, significantly reducing DMBA-induced mammary hyperplasia and tumor incidence, possibly through induction of apoptosis [1]. Additional research highlights its bioactive components—including saponins, flavonoids, and polyphenols—as contributors to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects [5]. In a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, fenugreek seed consumption was associated with significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, suggesting a role in cardiovascular health [4]. The protective effects against ethanol-induced liver cell toxicity further support its potential in mitigating oxidative stress and cellular damage [8].

Dosage Guide

Therapeutic Doses

For treatment of specific conditions

Blood pressure support5-10 g/day of whole seeds or equivalent extractBased on clinical trials showing hypotensive effects
Anticancer (preclinical)200 mg/kg body weight (animal studies)Not established in humans; experimental models only
Liver protection (in vitro)Polyphenolic extract co-administered with ethanolDose-dependent effect observed in cell studies; human relevance unknown

Clinical Notes

  • Human clinical evidence is limited; most anticancer and hepatoprotective data are from animal or cell studies.
  • Potential for gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., diarrhea, gas) at higher doses.
  • Fenugreek may interact with antidiabetic medications due to hypoglycemic effects.
  • Safety in pregnancy beyond culinary use is not established; may have uterine stimulant effects.
  • Standardization of extracts varies; product potency may differ significantly between brands.

Research

Key FindingsPubMed
1

Fenugreek seed extract at 200 mg/kg b.wt. significantly inhibited DMBA-induced breast cancer in rats, suggesting chemopreventive potential.

Chemopreventive activities of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) against breast cancer.
Cell biology international2005
2

Over 100 phytochemicals identified in fenugreek seeds, including polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids, contribute to its bioactivity and clinical applications.

Advances on application of fenugreek seeds as functional foods: Pharmacology, clinical application, products, patents and market.
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition2020
3

Standardized herbal extracts may provide consistent pharmacological activity, but whole-herb effects may differ from isolated compounds.

Medicinal herbs: drugs or dietary supplements?
Biochemical pharmacology2000
4

Fenugreek seed consumption significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a meta-analysis of RCTs.

The Effects of Fenugreek Seed Consumption on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
High blood pressure & cardiovascular prevention : the official journal of the Italian Society of Hypertension2023
5

Fenugreek exhibits anticancer potential via modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis-related signaling pathways.

Anticancer potential of Trigonella foenum graecum: Cellular and molecular targets.
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie2017
6

Provides clinical guidance on herbal supplements, including dosing and safety considerations for common botanicals.

Advising patients about herbs and nutraceuticals: tips for primary care providers.
Primary care2010
7

Highlights safety concerns with herbal supplements due to limited regulation and potential toxicity.

Herbal and alternative medicine.
Emergency medicine clinics of North America2000
8

Polyphenolic fenugreek extract protected human liver cells from ethanol-induced toxicity and apoptosis in vitro.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seed extract prevents ethanol-induced toxicity and apoptosis in Chang liver cells.
Alcohol and alcoholism (Oxford, Oxfordshire)2006

Products Containing Fenugreek extract(2 reports)