Fenugreek Cultivation in the Middle East and Other Parts of the World with Emphasis on Historical Aspects and Its Uses in Traditional Medicine and Modern Pharmaceutical Science

Abstract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) belongs to the botanical family Papilionaceae, and its native geographic range is the area extending from Iran to Northern India, but it is presently cultivated also in other regions of the world. Historically, fenugreek has been used as an important traditional, multipurpose medicinal herb in Iranian, Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan Medicinal Practices for several centuries. The most important compositions of fenugreek seeds are neutral detergent fiber, protein, gum, moisture, lipids, starch, and ash. Fenugreek seeds and leaves are anti-cholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, carminative, demulcent, deobstruent, emollient, expectorant, febrifuge, galactogogue, hypoglycemic, laxative, parasiticide, restorative, and uterine tonic and useful in burning sensation. Traditional uses of fenugreek seeds around the world are in bone and muscles, respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, female reproductive system, cardiovascular system, endocrinology, and hepatic. The most important modern health benefits of fenugreek are in appetite suppressant and weight loss, reduce cholesterol, reduce cardiovascular risk, control diabetes, a good relief for sore throats, it cures acid reflux or heartburn, relieves constipation, prevents colon cancer, good for kidney trouble, good for skin infection, increases milk production, reduces menstrual discomfort, and it minimizes symptoms of menopause. Integrative use of modern science and traditional medicine with novel technologies and discoveries will secure production of medicinal herbs and promote sustainability in a long-term and a wide-range. Treatment with natural medicine especially barberry as non-synthetic drug is recommended.