Fennugreek
Fenugreek genus species trigonella foenum-graecum
Description
Fenugreek consists of the ripe, dried seed of Trigonella foenum-graecum. Fenugreek is common all over the Mediterranean region. Fenugreek is also know as Greek Hay Seed, and Bird's Foot.
Compounds
Mucilages (25-45%, mannogalactans)
Proteins (25-30%)
Proteinase inhibitors
Steroid saponins (1.2-1.5%): including trigofoenosides A-G, aglycones, including diosgenin, yamogenin, gitogenin, smilagenin, tigogenin, yuccagenin and it ester foenugraccin.
Effects
Externally, the drug acts as an emollient. Internally, Fenugreek reduces blood sugar, but the mode of action is unclear. In addition, a lipid-lovering effect attributed to the saponin fraction has been proven as well as a hydrogogic effect.
Unproven uses
Internal uses include upper respiratory catarrh, diabetes, and to increase milk production.
Precautions:
Fenugreek has hypoglycemic effect. There is a potential for the herb to interact with hypoglycemic drugs that are used to treat diabetes resulting in an exaggerated hypoglycemic effect.