Fenugreek
fenugreek, fenugreek seed, fenugreek seeds, ground fenugreek, fenugreek extract, methi, Trigonella foenum-graecum, fenogreco, alholva, fenugrec, Bockshornklee, fieno greco
What it is
Fenugreek is a seed used as a spice. It is in curries, in some breads and in spice mixes, and it is what makes some products smell of maple syrup. On a label it may say fenugreek, fenugreek seed or fenugreek extract.
Why BOTIA flags it
In a trial with 110 women with polycystic ovary syndrome, fenugreek improved blood lipids more than metformin, and metformin was better for weight, blood sugar, insulin resistance and menstruation. The trial used extract capsules, 333 mg three times a day for two months; a food label does not tell you how much fenugreek it contains.
BOTIA CAN
- Detect fenugreek, fenugreek seed and fenugreek extract when they are declared on the label.
- Explain what the clinical trial found and show the Woman information layer.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Determine how much fenugreek a food contains, or whether it matches the dose used in the trial.
- Tell anyone whether to take fenugreek, or replace advice from a doctor.