- Supports the work of the digestive system
- Stimulates the development of muscle tissue
- Regulates glucose metabolism
- Has antibacterial properties
- Improves lipid profile
- Has anti-inflammatory effects
- Strengthens the body
- Protects the liver
- Enhances lactation
Swanson Fenugreek Seeds is a supplement containingfenugreek seed extract. Fenugreek is traditionally associated with the culinary arts and is commonly used as a spice in many countries. However, fenugreek's wealth of pharmacologically active compounds and broad spectrum of health-promoting properties make it a valuable herbal medicinal resource.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum - graecum L.), also known as Greek clover, is a popular herbaceous plant of the bean family. It grows naturally in the Mediterranean region, but is also cultivated in Europe and Asia. Valued as a condiment, it is also used as a feed ingredient due to its high protein, vitamin and mineral content. The complex chemical content also allows fenugreek to be used in the treatment and prevention of numerous diseases.
Fenugreek is a veritable mine of well-absorbed protein, vitamins (B1, B3, F, H) and bio-elements (calcium, iron, potassium, fluorine). In addition, a complex of flavonoids, steroidal saponins, phospholipids, phytosterols and coumarins have been isolated from its seeds.
Support for the liver and digestive system
Fenugreek has a hepatoprotective effect and contributes to the regulation of liver markers (ALAT, ASPAT, bilirubin). The compounds in its seeds reduce lipid peroxidation and activate antioxidant enzymes in liver cells. Fenugreek extracts show efficacy comparable to that of silymarin.
Fenugreek can be used in the treatment of various ailments of the digestive system (mucositis, peptic ulcer disease, bacterial infections). It protects the mucous membrane of the digestive system, regulates the secretion of gastric juice and pepsin, has a bactericidal effect on bacterial strains responsible for diseases of the digestive system(E. coli, Salmonella typhi).
Improving lipid parameters
Fenugreek is recommended for lowering excessively high cholesterol levels. Under the influence of steroidal saponins contained in its seeds, it accelerates the metabolism of cholesterol, its conversion to bile acids taking place in the liver and its excretion from the body. In addition, there is a slowdown in the activity of lipase, delaying the absorption of fatty compounds and blocking the accumulation of fat in cells. Thus, the level of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDN), the unfavorable fraction of cholesterol, is reduced.
Lipid management is also improved by niacin, abundantly found in fenugreek. Studies have shown that taking vitamin B3 alone results in a decrease in the LDN fraction and an increase in the beneficial HDL fraction. Some studies suggest that the coumarins in fenugreek prevent platelet aggregation, which is important in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Regulation of sugar metabolism
The synergistic action of compounds contained in fenugreek seeds is responsible for its hypoglycemic properties. Fenugreek regulates the activity of several groups of enzymes (lipogenic, glycolytic and gluconeogenic), thus helping to lower excessively high blood glucose levels. In addition, the 4-hydroxyisoleucine present in fenugreek seeds stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic islets, while polyphenols increase overall insulin sensitivity. Importantly, fenugreek's effects are dependent on blood glucose levels and only occur when levels are elevated.
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
The anti-inflammatory effects of fenugreek are comparable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Seed extracts stimulate the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-10, as well as TNF (tumor necrosis factor), and enhance the expression of inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2). Thanks to this, fenugreek effectively suppresses inflammation, in addition, it shows antipyretic and analgesic effects.
Phenolic compounds contained in fenugreek inhibit the expression of reactive oxygen species from inflamed body tissues, and additionally remove superoxide radicals. Antioxidant activity is also demonstrated by many other compounds present in fenugreek seeds, which gives this plant great potential to fight diseases caused by excess free radicals in the body.
Fenugreek acts as a natural antibiotic. It inhibits the growth of 26 different pathogenic microorganisms of the Gram-positive, Gram-negative and fungal genera.
Anabolic effect
There are indications that fenugreek is an effective agent with anabolic activity. The steroidal saponins contained in its composition initiate the synthesis of anabolic hormones (testosterone, DHEA) and affect the release of liberins (stimulating hormones). In addition, fenugreek intensifies the synthesis of adrenal cortex hormones, stimulates muscle tissue protein synthesis and contributes to increasing nitrogen retention in the body. All this stimulates the process of myogenesis and can result in an increase in lean muscle mass.
Lactogenic effects
In folk medicine, fenugreek has traditionally been recommended to young mothers as an herb that enhances lactation. The diosgenin and phytoestrogens it contains, which are similar in structure to natural estrogen, can affect the endocrine system and increase milk flow.
Fenugreek is an herbal supplement recommended for strengthening the body. It will be perfect for states of physical and mental weakness or recovery. It contains only natural ingredients, the effectiveness and safety of whose use has been confirmed by clinical studies.