May Help With Diabetes, Sexual Health, and More
Fenugreek is a fragrant herb that belongs to the legume family. As a botanical, fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) contains certain elements like galactomannan fiber, saponin, and hydroxyisoleucine that may play a role in potential health benefits. Dandelion Leaf Extract
Researchers are working to identify the benefits. There's some evidence that fenugreek can help control blood sugar, treat asthma, manage cholesterol levels, or boost sexual health. Early results are promising but more study is needed to understand how fenugreek works.
This article discusses the potential uses of fenugreek. It also discusses side effects, drug interactions, and reasons (like liver health) for some people to avoid its use.
Fenugreek contains nutrients that include:
Five of the B-complex vitamins, including vitamin B3 (niacin) and folate (vitamin B9), also are found in fenugreek. Like many herbs, people may use fenugreek for various reasons. But there are several studies assessing fenugreek for the following potential uses.
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Two systematic reviews examined fenugreek's potential for controlling blood glucose (sugar). And according to another systematic review, fenugreek has the following effects:
Fenugreek has many dosage forms used in studies, including cooked leaves, raw seeds, powders, and extracts. Clinical trials have shown promise but more study is needed.
Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis, results suggested that fenugreek decreased the following:
What's more, fenugreek may also increase high-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol") Fenugreek didn't appear to have any effect on weight. And well-designed clinical trials—especially in people with high cholesterol—are still necessary.
Traditionally, fenugreek was used as a galactagogue to improve breast milk production. But the study results are mixed.
Some evidence supports that natural galactagogues—like fenugreek—might help breastfeeding parents make more milk for their infants to achieve healthy weight. Well-designed studies may help evaluate the effectiveness and safety of fenugreek and other galactagogues.
In a systematic review, there was limited evidence to support using supplements like fenugreek for dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual period cramps). There was also little data to assess the safety of these supplements. More research is needed.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a medical condition that affects females. In PCOS, there is too much of a specific group of sex hormones called androgens. This may result in various symptoms that may include:
People with PCOS are also at risk for other medical conditions, such as diabetes (high blood sugar).
In a small clinical trial, 50 study participants took two capsules of 500 milligrams (mg) of Furocyst daily for 90 days. Furocyst is a specific fenugreek seed extract. At the end of the clinical trial, 46% of participants had smaller ovarian cysts—with an additional 36% experiencing no more cysts.
Moreover, 71% of study participants reported regular periods—while 12% became pregnant. But there were no changes in blood sugar, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol").
While some of the data for PCOS is promising, this clinical trial was small and more study is needed.
According to the results of a small clinical trial, people with mild asthma might benefit from fenugreek syrup as an add-on treatment to beta-agonist drugs like albuterol. More study is needed, but results showed:
Quality of life was improved in the group treated with added fenugreek.
Fenugreek may offer sexual health benefits for both males and females.
A 2021 study builds on prior knowledge of improved testosterone levels in males. Testofen, an extract drawn from fenugreek seeds, was found to improve erectile dysfunction and enhance libido (desire) in males when combined with other supplements.
There's emerging evidence of benefit in sports performance due to the plant steroid diosgenin found in fenugreek. It has been shown to increase testosterone levels, lean body mass, and leg press performance in male athletes, although there's no comparable evidence in female athletes who use fenugreek.
In females, a fenugreek-based vaginal cream used after menopause to improve symptoms of vaginal atrophy was found to be an effective replacement for synthetic estrogen products. More study is needed due to the wide range of cultural factors and experiences involved in women's sexual health.
Like many medications and herbs, side effects are possible with fenugreek.
Fenugreek is "generally regarded as safe" by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). But since there are few high-quality human studies, there is limited information about this herb's safety.
In a review, no or minor side effects with fenugreek were typically found. But some possible common side effects are generally related to the digestive system, including:
In a systematic review and meta-analysis, fenugreek didn't seem to significantly affect weight.
There were no significant side effects with fenugreek in a small 90-day study in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). But possible serious side effects may include:
Call 911 and get medical help immediately if you have a severe allergic reaction or any of your symptoms feel life-threatening.
Your healthcare provider may advise against using fenugreek if any of the following applies to you:
Severe allergic reaction: If you have a severe allergic reaction to fenugreek or its components (ingredients), you shouldn't take this medication. You should also avoid fenugreek if you're severely allergic to peanuts, chickpeas, or other members of the legume family.
Pregnancy: Fenugreek was linked to adverse effects on the unborn fetus. For this reason, it isn't recommended during pregnancy. To discuss the benefits and risks of fenugreek while pregnant, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding: In a systematic review, some evidence supported natural galactagogues—like fenugreek. However, while they might help breastfeeding parents make more milk for their infants to achieve healthy weights, more extensive and well-designed studies are necessary to assess fenugreek's effects and safety on breastfeeding parents and their nursing babies.
Children: Children should likely avoid fenugreek.
Older adults over 65: There is little data about fenugreek—including in older adults. Some older adults may be more sensitive to side effects from medications. For this reason, take fenugreek with caution.
Liver problems: There are reports of liver problems with fenugreek. For this reason, your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding fenugreek if you have a liver condition.
There are limited high-quality human studies on fenugreek, so there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage of fenugreek for any condition. The FDA placed this herb on its GRAS list. (GRAS means substances are generally recognized as safe.)
While fenugreek is a GRAS substance, the maximum recommended daily intake is 21 grams (g) to avoid an overdose. But fenugreek supplements might have doses as high as 100 grams.
In India, some adults may consume 0.3 to 0.6 grams (g) of fenugreek seed daily. As for fenugreek supplements, people usually take between 1 to 5 grams every day. If you want to try fenugreek, talk with your healthcare provider first. And follow their recommendations or the label instructions.
If you take large doses of fenugreek, you'll likely have dangerously low blood sugar, a possible serious side effect of this herb. It's also a possibility that you might experience other severe side effects, such as liver problems or low potassium.
Carefully read the storage directions and packaging label on the container. But in general, keep your medications tightly closed in a cool, dry place and out of the reach of children and pets, ideally locked in a cabinet or closet. Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging. Avoid putting unused and expired drugs down the drain or in the toilet. Visit the FDA's website to learn how to discard all unused and expired drugs. You can also find disposal boxes in your area.
Use caution when taking fenugreek with the following:
A systematic review attempted to analyze several herbal medications on their effectiveness and safety for painful menstrual period cramps. Aside from fenugreek, this review also included ginger. Limited evidence supports both fenugreek and ginger in relieving painful menstrual period cramps.
Fenugreek and ginger were also included in a systematic review of several natural therapies or drugs for their possible effectiveness and safety as galactagogues. Galactagogues are used to improve milk production. Evidence suggests that fenugreek and garlic might help breastfeeding parents make more milk for their infants to achieve a healthy weight. But there isn't enough data to conclude whether one is better. Also, garlic may cause digestive discomfort in some infants.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
There are several different sources of fenugreek.
Fenugreek is naturally available as a plant in the legume family—along with peas and beans. The FDA also generally recognizes fenugreek as safe to be used as a seasoning or flavoring agent. You may see it used as a culinary (cooking) herb. It's also a flavoring agent in foods, drinks, and tobacco.
Dietary changes may interact with your medications or affect your medical conditions. For this reason, talk with your healthcare provider first. They will help you safely make any dietary changes.
Fenugreek is available in a few different forms, including capsules. If you have difficulties swallowing pills, fenugreek might also be available in the following dosage forms:
There are also vegetarian options.
According to a review, fenugreek might also be available in the following forms:
Your specific product will depend on your preference and what you hope to get in terms of effects. Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form. Thus, following your healthcare provider's recommendations or label directions is essential.
Fenugreek is a spice used for cooking. People may also have other uses for this herb. There are studies assessing fenugreek benefits in treating asthma, diabetes, sexual health, and more, but researchers are still working to provide evidence of fenugreek benefits.
Fenugreek is generally considered safe but side effects are still possible. This herb may also lower your blood sugar and potassium levels, so some people should use it with caution. Talk to your healthcare provider about fenugreek supplements, dosage, and whether they're right for you.
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By Ross Phan, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, BCPS Ross is a writer for Verywell and has years of experience practicing pharmacy in various settings. She is also a board-certified clinical pharmacist, the founder of Off Script Consults, and director of the PharmacyChecker international verification program.
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