Trigonella foenum- graecum (Methi)
Trigonella foenum- graecum (Methi)      Commonly known as Methi, it is an integral part of Indian condiments and has been in use as medicine in India and China historically. Seeds and leaves of the herb have been used in various medications. The major chemical constituents are saponins, coumarins, flavonoids, alkaloids, amino acids and carbohydrates. Its well-known medicinal and pharmacological activities include: • Antidiabetic activity: Studies in humans support its use in diabetes. It suppressed some of the clinical symptoms of diabetes such as polyuria, polydypsia, weakness and weight loss. • Hypercholesterolaemic activity: Steroidal saponins isolated from Methi seeds administered to rats significantly reduced plasma cholesterol in both normal and diabetic rats. Antioxidant activity: Several studies have suggested that the seeds may be useful as an antioxidant agent for preserving foods • Anti-inflammatory activity: Ether extract of Methi seeds showed potent antiinflammatory effect comparable to aspirin in rats. Safety Profile      Since Methi has been used as part of food, it is considered safe. However it should be used with caution in individuals on diabetes medication because it may potentiate the action of other hypoglycemic agents. Herb Drug interactions      May interact with anticoagulants, anti-platelet Drugs, NSAIDs because Methi preparations contain coumarin derivatives which may increase the risk of bleeding. Concomitant use of Methi and anticoagulants/anti-platelet agents is not advised. Hypoglycemic Drugs, Insulin: Data from pre-clinical studies and small, methodologically weak human investigations suggest that Methi possesses both acute and chronic hypoglycemic properties. Concomitant use with other hypoglycemic agents may lower serum glucose more than expected, and levels should be monitored closely. Glucose levels should be monitored in patients using other hypoglycemic agents. Selected relevant published references • Plant Foods Human Nutr. 53(4): 359-65, 1999 • Eur. J Clin. Nutr. 44(4):301-6, 1990 • Plant Foods Human Nutr. 59(4):143-7, 2004 • Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Med. 3 (3); 349-357, 2006 • Atherosclerosis. 50(1): 105-11, 1984 • J Med. Food. 7(2):153-6, 2004 • Also check http://kroger.naturalstandard.com