Use of Fenuqreek seed powder in the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Hypoglycemic effect of Fenugreek seed powder (Trigonella foenum graecum) was studied in 60 non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. A prescribed diet with and without Fenugreek seed powder was given to patients for 7 days of a control period and for 24 weeks of the experimental period. During the experimental period twenty five grams of Fenugreek seed powder divided into two equal doses was added to the diet and served during lunch and dinner. Diet containing Fenugreek seed powder lowered fasting blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance. Insulin levels were also diminished. Twenty four hour urinary sugar excretion was reduced significantly (p < 0.001). Glycosylated hemoglobin measured at the end of the 8th week of Fenugreek seed powder administration was reduced significantly (p < 0.001). This shows that feeding Fenugreek seed powder is beneficial to diabetic subjects.