Evidence supporting the use of: Fenugreek
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) has been used traditionally in various cultures for women’s health, particularly to support lactation after childbirth rather than during pregnancy itself. In folk medicine, especially in South Asia and the Middle East, fenugreek seeds are believed to stimulate milk production and may be given to women after delivery. However, its use during pregnancy is less common and is not strongly rooted in either traditional or scientific medical recommendations.

Some traditions suggest that fenugreek can help ease labor or prepare the uterus for childbirth, but these practices are based on anecdotal evidence and historical usage rather than scientific validation. The principal concern is that fenugreek contains phytoestrogens and can have uterine-stimulating effects, leading to potential risks if taken during pregnancy. There are isolated reports of fenugreek being used as a uterine tonic, but there are also concerns of it potentially causing preterm labor or miscarriage if consumed in large amounts.

Modern scientific studies are scarce regarding fenugreek’s direct impact on pregnancy outcomes. Most clinical research on fenugreek focuses on its galactagogue (milk-promoting) properties postpartum, not on pregnancy support. Therefore, while there is a traditional basis for its use related to women’s reproductive health, evidence supporting its use specifically during pregnancy is very limited and not recommended without medical supervision.

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