Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant similar to clover, primarily used as a seasoning. It originates from the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia. Its seeds have a taste reminiscent of maple syrup and are utilized in both culinary and medicinal applications.

Fenugreek is believed to slow down sugar absorption in the stomach and stimulate insulin production, leading to reduced blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. It is commonly used to address issues such as menstrual cramps, sexual problems, prostate enlargement, high cholesterol, obesity, acid reflux, and a variety of other health concerns.

In the field of alopecia, fenugreek is quite popular as a remedy for thinning hair. However, it’s unlikely to be found in shampoos or supplements.

Does it work for hair loss?

Fenugreek seeds are frequently employed as a home remedy for hair thinning and associated conditions such as dandruff or itching. Women also use them as a mask or rinse to promote hair growth.

Based on my research, fenugreek seeds may have the following impact on hair loss:

Fenugreek contains essential nutrients for hair

Upon examining the composition of fenugreek seeds, it becomes apparent that they are a highly nutritious food source. They are rich in essential nutrients, including folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin C. They also boast a wealth of minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron. Additionally, fenugreek seeds are abundant in proteins, nicotinic acid, and lecithin.

Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the popularity of fenugreek stems from its robust nutritional profile, which provides the essential elements needed for healthy hair growth.

In my Total Immersion program, I delve into the detrimental effects of nutrient deficiencies on hair health. Beyond the inadequacy of crucial elements for hair production, other factors like acidosis can force the body to deplete the limited nutrients that hair is attempting to retain.

A study conducted in 2006 by Stephan Bielfedt and his colleagues found that the consumption of a dietary supplement containing fenugreek yielded positive results in enhancing hair aesthetics. Over 80% of the participants who received the supplement reported improvements in hair volume and thickness compared to those who were given a placebo.

At this juncture, we can posit that fenugreek’s favorable impact on hair is closely linked to its nutrient content. However, as we delve further, we will discover that there is more to it than just nutrients.

Fenugreek has anti-diabetic properties

Several studies suggest that fenugreek seeds have the ability to slow down the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream. You might think this information is irrelevant if you don’t have diabetes. However, research has shown links between insulin resistance and hair loss. Additionally, excess sugar can promote inflammation, worsening hair loss (source) (source).

In a 1988 Israeli study led by Z. Madar and colleagues, it was found that consuming approximately 15 grams of fenugreek with each meal reduced post-meal glucose levels.

In my view, consuming an anti-diabetic food could be an excellent way to prevent future health issues related to excessive sugar intake. Experts predict that the majority of the population may develop diabetes in the coming decades due to widespread excessive sugar consumption.

Fenugreek possesses antioxidant properties

One of the contributing factors to hair loss is oxidative stress, which occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals can accumulate excessively due to various factors such as stress, poor dietary habits, or exposure to pollution, leading to health issues like hair loss, inflammation, premature aging, heart diseases, and certain cancers (source).

Several studies suggest that the consumption of antioxidants, such as vitamin E, may reduce the risk of various diseases and hair loss (source) (source).

In addition to being rich in essential nutrients for the body and hair, fenugreek appears to have antioxidant properties.

A 2016 Tunisian study conducted by Naourez and colleagues found that one of the components of fenugreek exhibited potent antioxidant properties. This in-vitro study, conducted in an artificial environment, demonstrated that polysaccharides extracted from fenugreek seeds possessed strong antioxidant abilities and promoted wound healing.

Le fenugrec possède des propriétés anti-inflammatoires

Regarding the anti-inflammatory effects of fenugreek, multiple studies have reported on them. This specific study, conducted in Algeria in 2018 by Rouibi Abdelhak and his colleagues, examined fenugreek essential oil and fenugreek seeds and found them to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Here are the details and results: The study discovered that an aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds, at a dose of 120 mg/kg, exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity when compared to Diclofenac and essential oil. Additionally, administering the aqueous extract at a dose of 120 mg/kg produced the same antipyretic effect (reduction in body temperature) as paracetamol.

These findings suggest that fenugreek’s anti-inflammatory effects are notably potent, as they are compared to the widely popular anti-inflammatory drugs Diclofenac and paracetamol. For example, fenugreek could be used to reduce body temperature and inflammation in cases of fever.

Inflammation is a defense mechanism of the immune system that is triggered when the body faces various challenges, such as infection, irritation, muscle tension, or injury.

Interestingly, nearly all forms of alopecia involve chronic inflammation in the scalp, and reducing this inflammation has been shown to effectively reduce hair loss (source).

A study on Alopecia

In a 2010 study led by Mr. Semalty and his colleagues, fenugreek extract demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting hair growth in albino mice.

The study evaluated several plants and compared their results to those of a 2% minoxidil solution. Among all the plants tested, fenugreek extract stood out as the most effective.

(T1: Fenugreek extract; Standard: 2% minoxidil)

Closing thoughts and verdict

Fenugreek seeds can be both a nutritious addition to your diet and offer medicinal properties that could potentially reduce hair loss. While it hasn’t been proven as a definitive solution for androgenetic alopecia, incorporating fenugreek as a dietary supplement may have long-term benefits, particularly because of its powerful anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

I, therefore, suggest adding fenugreek to your daily supplement routine. You can also consume fenugreek seeds or foods rich in fenugreek regularly.

Precautions & side effects

• Possibility of allergic reactions in some individuals: People allergic to other plants in the Fabaceae family, such as soy, peanuts, green peas, and other legumes, may also be allergic to fenugreek.
• Consuming large quantities of fenugreek seeds can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, typically temporary, due to their high fiber content.
• May cause nausea and diarrhea. In large amounts, may elevate blood sugar levels.
• Fenugreek could slow blood clotting, potentially leading to increased bleeding during and after surgery. Discontinue fenugreek intake at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.