fenugreek extract

Fenugreek extract is a concentrated preparation derived primarily from the seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum, used as a dietary supplement for glycemic control, lactation support, lipid management, and other traditional indications. It contains steroidal saponins (e.g., protodioscin, dioscin), 4-hydroxyisoleucine, fibers, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals thought to contribute to effects such as slowing carbohydrate absorption, improving postprandial glycemia, and possible androgen-modulating and galactagogue activity. Evidence for lowering postprandial blood glucose is suggestive but mixed and of generally low quality; most other claimed uses lack high-quality confirmation. Safety concerns include gastrointestinal upset, hypoglycemia risk when combined with antidiabetic drugs, allergy (cross-reactivity with Fabaceae), potential interactions (e.g., warfarin potentiation, SSRIs with rare serotonin syndrome), and avoidance during pregnancy due to reported teratogenic risk at supplemental doses. It is not FDA-approved as a drug and is marketed as an herbal supplement.

Brand names

Testofen

Other names

fenugreek seed extractTrigonella foenum-graecum extractmethi extractFoenugraeci semen extractfenugreek