Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Circulatory
- 4 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Fenugreek is much used in herbal medicine in North Africa, the Middle East, and India. Its seeds have been used to increase breast-milk production; NCCIH says studies of this use have had mixed results. Fenugreek is also thought to be antidiabetic, although NCCIH says there is not enough high-quality evidence to know whether it helps diabetes.
Traditional uses & properties
Traditionally used to stimulate milk production during breastfeeding and promoted today for diabetes; NCCIH says there is not enough high-quality evidence to know whether it helps diabetes, and studies on milk supply have had mixed results.
Safety & precautions
Not recommended for use during pregnancy: NCCIH says amounts greater than those in food have been linked to birth defects.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
LiverTox notes that fenugreek's fiber content and its estrogen-like and coumarin-like effects give it potential for interactions, especially at high doses. [1]
- Warfarin and antiplatelet drugs
- MSK cites case reports in which fenugreek may have strengthened warfarin's effect, raising INR. LiverTox flags these drugs as the main concern. [1, 2]
- Diabetes medicines
- NCCIH warns that large doses of fenugreek may drop blood sugar to a harmful level. Ask your clinician before combining it with glucose-lowering treatment. [3]
- SSRI antidepressants
- MSK cites a case report suggesting supplemental fenugreek may have contributed to serotonin syndrome. [2]
- Cyclophosphamide and theophylline
- Animal studies suggest possible interference. Relevance to people is undetermined. [2]
How to read this section: each entry is HerbMate's summary of what the cited sources report. Words such as "may", "theoretical" or "in laboratory or animal studies" mean the effect has not been confirmed in people, and "case report" means it was seen in one or a few patients. A medicine that is not listed here has not been shown to be safe with this herb. The numbers in brackets link to the sources at the foot of the page.
Habitat
Native to North Africa and countries bordering the eastern Mediterranean, fenugreek grows in open areas and is widely cultivated, notably in India. The seeds are collected during the autumn months.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
- Cholesterol regulation6 herbs · 2 free
- Ulcers15 herbs · 2 free
- Diabetes11 herbs · 2 free
- Fever11 herbs · 2 free
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Frequently asked questions
What is Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) as follows: Traditionally used to stimulate milk production during breastfeeding and promoted today for diabetes; NCCIH says there is not enough high-quality evidence to know whether it helps diabetes, and studies on milk supply have had mixed results.
What safety cautions apply to Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)?
Not recommended for use during pregnancy: NCCIH says amounts greater than those in food have been linked to birth defects.
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