Safety and influence of a novel extract of fenugreek on healthy young women: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study

Abstract

Background Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed is a popular kitchen spice and medicinal herb with wide applications in Indian folklore. Earlier studies have shown that the hydro-ethanolic extracts of fenugreek are efficient in the management of a number of hormone related disorders in women, including post and peri-menopausal discomforts, sexual dysfunctions, lactation and even in amenorrhea. However, systematic informations on their safety and influence on hormonal balance are limited. Results Forty-eight healthy menstruating women aged 20 to 48 were randomized either to FHE (n = 24) or placebo (n = 24) and supplemented with 250 mg × 2/day for 42 days. FHE did not produce any side effects or adverse events. It offered significant (P < 0.05) beneficial effects to sexual problems (41.6%) and irritability (40%) among the participants who had higher sexual dysfunctions scores (> 1) when monitored by the validated Menopausal Rating Scale (MRS) scale. Further, hormone analysis indicated an enhancement in estradiol (P = 0.040), free testosterone (P = 0.025), and total testosterone (P = 0.012) in FHE group in comparison to placebo. There were no significant changes in progesterone (P = 0.174) and FSH (P = 0.879) upon FHE supplementation. The hematological and biochemical safety parameters were also at par with the safety of the extract. Conclusion Thus, the supplementation of FHE may be considered as a natural alternative for sexual issues in women. Trial registration CTRI/2018/09/015614 dated 05/09/2018.

Psyllium and okra mucilage as co-carrier wall materials for fenugreek oil encapsulation and its utilization as fat replacers in pan bread and biscuit production

“…For instance, it reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides of high blood levels [ 36 , 46 , 47 ], which subsequently minimizes the risk of cardiovascular disease [ 48 , 49 ]. Also, it acts as a phytoestrogen that involved in lactation and ovulation, regulations [ [50] , [51] , [52] ]. Furthermore, it considered as safe and cheap herbal treatment for men infertility [ 39 , 53 ].…”