4 fenugreek interactions

Fenugreek is a sweet, nutty herb that is similar to clover. Because the fenugreek plant is native to the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia, it’s a common flavoring in many cuisines, such as Greek and Indian food. In addition to its use in dishes, fenugreek is used medicinally in many cultures. The herb has been used to reduce swelling, control blood glucose levels, and promote lactation during breastfeeding. Fenugreek has also become a popular supplement for treating menstrual cramps and erectile dysfunction. Fenugreek may even improve lipid profiles, including lowering triglycerides and managing cholesterol levels. 

While fenugreek may have certain health benefits, it may also come with side effects and drug interactions. For example, people taking certain asthma, diabetes, and potassium-lowering medications may experience negative fenugreek drug interactions. Here, we’ll separate the health from the hype and break down the potential drug interactions of fenugreek supplements.

4 fenugreek interactions 

Fenugreek supplements include fenugreek seeds, fenugreek seed extracts, and fenugreek seed powder. Because fenugreek isn’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dosage across different supplements can vary widely. Many assume that because fenugreek is a plant, taking supplements won’t have any adverse effects. 

“Natural doesn’t equal safe,” says Linda Khoshaba, NMD, a naturopathic physician in Scottsdale, Arizona. “Many patients assume herbal formulations are harmless, but fenugreek can have potent interactions with medications and underlying health conditions.”

Before taking a fenugreek supplement, seek medical advice from your healthcare professional to ensure fenugreek won’t interact with your current medications. To start, here’s a list of drugs you shouldn’t mix with fenugreek supplements. 

1. Asthma medication

Fenugreek seeds may interact poorly with Elixophyllin (theophylline), a prescription medication for asthma patients. This interaction may change how theophylline is metabolized, so it’s best not to combine the two medications. However, there are no known interactions between fenugreek and other commonly prescribed asthma medications. 

2. Blood thinners

A systematic review suggests that fenugreek is an anticoagulant that may be used to prevent clotting. Taking fenugreek in conjunction with blood thinners, such as Coumadin (warfarin), may increase this effect. This interaction may increase side effects common with blood thinners, such as bruising and bleeding. 

“It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement regimen if you are on medication for medical conditions [like stroke or heart attack],” explains Reda Elmardi, a registered dietitian based in the Bronx, New York. 

3. Diabetes medications

Fenugreek can slow the absorption of sugar in the stomach and lower blood sugar, which may be beneficial for people with insulin resistance. “Fenugreek is believed to help improve diabetes symptoms, including poor blood sugar control and unstable blood sugar levels,” says Elmardi. However, if you’re taking medication for Type 2 diabetes, it may magnify blood sugar-lowering effects and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Get medical advice before taking fenugreek seed powder or fenugreek seed extract to avoid risking dangerously low blood sugar. 

4. Potassium-lowering medications

Some clinical research suggests that using fenugreek can reduce potassium levels, which is important to note if you’re taking other medicines that may reduce potassium, such as diuretics. Taking fenugreek with diuretics may lead to low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Diuretics are commonly used in the treatment of high blood pressure. 

How to minimize fenugreek interactions

There is no doubt that adding fenugreek to your diet can be helpful in some instances, but it’s essential to take care when considering fenugreek supplements and take steps to avoid potential reactions. 

• Talk to your provider and pharmacist. “If you’re taking fenugreek regularly, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional,” Elmardi says. As with all medications, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider and/or pharmacist about all medications and herbal formulations you’re taking—including over-the-counter medications. 
• Start with a low dose. Fenugreek is best taken in lower dosages, starting with 1/4 tsp or less and gradually increasing if needed. The risk of adverse effects may be increased with higher doses.
• Monitor for side effects. The most common side effects are stomach problems such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and bloating. Khoshaba has also seen side effects like gas, hypoglycemia, and even liver toxicity in rare cases when taken in high dosages. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about potential side effects of fenugreek before taking it—and periodically throughout treatment if you experience any of these symptoms, recommends Elmardi. 
• Get help for symptoms of an allergic reaction. While rare, some people are allergic to this dietary supplement. If you experience shortness of breath, throat tightness, or tongue swelling, seek emergency medical help.

Who should avoid taking fenugreek?

The National Center for Complementary Medicine and Integrative Health recommends that the following groups should avoid the use of fenugreek supplements:

• Pregnant women
• Children
• People who may be sensitive to a significant drop in blood sugar
• Those allergic to fenugreek

The safety during breastfeeding is unknown, though this herb is commonly recommended to increase breast milk production. 

When to talk to a healthcare provider about fenugreek interactions

Supplements are so readily available that it can be easy to overlook their potential adverse effects. Fenugreek is generally considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before taking a new supplement—especially if you have any existing health conditions, such as high or low blood pressure, high cholesterol, hypoglycemia, or diabetes. They can make sure it’s safe to take and that there aren’t potential interactions with your medications.

If you have stomach problems, such as diarrhea or constipation, when taking fenugreek, contact your provider to discuss how to minimize side effects. If you start to feel unusual muscle weakness or dizziness, that could indicate that your potassium is low, a dangerous potential interaction. Talk to a healthcare provider if you experience those symptoms or have any concerns about the side effects of fenugreek.