Medicinal and curative potential of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum- graecum L.) - A review

Abstract

Fenugreek also called methi is commercially cultivated worldwide due to its variety of uses. It has a long history as both
a culinary, medicinal and therapeutic herb. The seeds of fenugreek are commonly utilized as a spice in food
preparations due to the strong flavour and aroma. Fenugreek seed contains 45-60% carbohydrates, mainly
mucilaginous fiber (galactomannan); 20-30% proteins high in lysine and tryptophan; 5- 10% fixed oils (lipids);
pyridinetype alkaloids, mainly trigonelline (0.2-0.36%) choline (0.5%), gentianine and carpaine; flavonoids, free
amino acids, such as 4- hydroxyisoleucine; arginine, histidine and lysine; calcium and iron; saponins (0.6 -1.7%);
cholesterol and sitosterol; vitamins A, B 1, C and nicotinic acid; and 0.015% volatile oils. The fenugreek alkaloidal
extractmaintains blood glucose level and reduces lipid profile to almost normal and showed antioxidant effect on the
tissues of liver and kidney. Ethanolic extract of fenugreek showed antineoplastic effect on the growth of cancer.
Fenugreek defends ulcer formation in mouth and food duct. The main chemical constituents responsible the anti-
inflammatory activity are alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids. Fenugreek is also one of the candidates that have been
tested for its activity against wide variety of microorganisms such as bacteria, virus, and fungus. Otherthan these
fenugreek also known for various uses. In a number of studies, extracts of fenugreek seeds and some of their
constituents have shown anticarcinogenic potency. In addition, fenugreek was reported to have
gastroprotective consequence, antimicrobial behavior, anticancer effect, used in treatment of arthritis,
increasing milk production, reducing weight and may regulate hyperthyroidism.