The effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed on glycemic parameters: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

2025-11-01
Avicenna journal of phytomedicine 15(6)
- Fatemeh Chehregosha
- Laleh Fakhr
- Ali Tarighat-Esfanjani
- Leila Maghsoumi-Norouzabad

PubMed: 41509111
DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2025.26043

Study Design

Type: Review
Sample size: n = 26
Methods: A systematic literature search of several databases was performed from inception to 30 October 2023, for controlled clinical trials. Data were analyzed using the random-effect model, and are presented as weighted (WMD) or standardized (SMD) mean difference and associated 95 % confidence interval (CI).

Objective

The presented meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials aimed to analyze the effectiveess of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hr postprandial glucose (2hPPG), Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Insulin and Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Materials and methods

A systematic literature search of several databases was performed from inception to 30 October 2023, for controlled clinical trials. Data were analyzed using the random-effect model, and are presented as weighted (WMD) or standardized (SMD) mean difference and associated 95 % confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochrane χ² test. Meta-regression, subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analysis were used to identify the source of heterogeneity. Funnel plot, Egger's, and Begg's tests were also used to evaluate publication bias.

Results

A total of 26 Randomized controlled trial (RCTs) met the eligibility criteria. The results indicated significant improving effects of fenugreek on FBG (WMD: - 16.75 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 23.36, - 10.15; p<0.001), 2hPP (WMD: - 22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 34.42 to - 10.15; p<0.001; I² (%): 95.1%, p<0.001), HbA1c levels (WMD: - 0.63 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.76 to - 0.51; p<0.001), and insulin (SMD: - 0.42; 95 % CI: - 0.79 to - 0.05; p = 0.026). However, the HOMA-IR effect was insignificant (WMD: -22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.84 to 0.02; p = 0.061).

Conclusion

The overall results support the possible protective and therapeutic effects of fenugreek on glycemic parameters. Future studies with higher quality are necessary to confirm the results of the present meta-analyses.