Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.) in Women's Health: A Review of Clinical Evidence and Traditional Use Publisher

Summary: Fenugreek for women's woes? Review shows seeds aid breastfeeding, dysmenorrhea, PCOS, menopause—via traditional use, clinical trials. Research suggests safe remedy, but needs more studies. Herb help? #WomensHealth #Fenugreek

Akhtari E^{1, 2} ; Ram M^{3, 4} ; Zaidi SMA⁵ ; Marques AM⁶ ; Rahimi R^{7, 8} ; Bahramsoltani R^{4, 7}
Source: Journal of Herbal Medicine Published:2024

Abstract

Introduction: Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is a medicinal plant widely used in culinary and medicine all over the world. The seeds are a valuable traditional remedy in gynaecological problems. This paper aims to review clinical evidence and traditional use of fenugreek in women's health, along with possible pharmacological mechanisms. Methods: Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as ethnopharmacological studies and textbooks of traditional medicines were searched to collect all relevant data. Results: Fenugreek is used for gynaecological problems in different traditional medicines, including Persian medicine and Ayurveda. It has also been widely used in ethnomedicine of different parts of the world for women's health. Several clinical studies confirm the beneficial effects of fenugreek in breastfeeding, dysmenorrhoea, polycystic ovary syndrome, and menopause. There are limited studies on the use of this plant in ovarian diseases, infertility, and vaginal atrophy. Conclusions: Conclusively, fenugreek is a valuable medicinal plant in women's health, and thus future studies are recommended to further clarify the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of this plant in this category of diseases. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH