Protective effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on glucose homeostasis, lipid profile, and immune function in a Wistar rat model

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is well known worldwide as a spice and as an herbal remedy for combating high blood sugar. The present study investigated the effect of fenugreek on glycemic, lipidemic and immunomodulatory potential using Wistar rats in vivo model to compare the efficacy of two common methods of fenugreek administration, i.e. seed-soaked water (soaked overnight: traditional method) and fenugreek seed powder-soaked water (soaked for 48 hours). Phytochemicals in the prepared extracts was assessed qualitatively. Cholesterol-induced rats were orally administered with a dose 1g/kg (body weight) of seed-soaked water (SS) and powder-soaked water (PS) (N=6 each), once daily for 28 consecutive days. A group of hypercholesterolemic rats without fenugreek treatment served as positive control (PC), while non-cholesterolemic rats without fenugreek treatment served as the negative control (NC) (n=6 each). Glycemic, lipidemic and immunomodulatory effects were investigated using standard procedures. Standard toxicity testing was conducted for oral consumption of fenugreek. Phytochemical analysis revealed proportionately higher presence of reducing sugars, tannins, saponins and flavonoids in the SS than PS extract. The traditional method of consumption (SS) reported the highest efficacy in significantly (p < 0.05) reducing both glucose (47.72 vs >137.56 mg/) and total cholesterol levels (59.75 vs >298.83 mg/dL compared to PC. Both treatments resulted in 8-10% elevation of lymphocyte counts compared to the controls, suggesting immunopotentiation, while no apparent toxic effects were observed in the rats. The results of the present study provide scientific validation for the traditional seed-soaked fenugreek remedy in controlling cholesterol and blood sugar, with potential extensions towards herbal drug leads.