Fenugreek is a herb used in alternative and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Despite numerous advances in medical care, fenugreek or Trigonella foenum-graecum (as scientists call it) continues to be used for its potential health benefits.
Fenugreek remains a popular herbal supplement, and many different formulations and products exist on the market. Deciding on the best fenugreek supplement can be difficult, but fortunately, we have done a lot of research for you. We will discuss the important aspects of picking the best supplement for your situation.
Best fenugreek supplement: a shortlist
- Nutricost — best overall fenugreek supplement
- Nature's Way — best vegan-friendly fenugreek supplement
- NOW — best fenugreek supplement for testosterone
- Solaray — best eco-friendly fenugreek supplement
- Gaia Herbs — best liquid capsule fenugreek supplement
What is fenugreek?
Fenugreek is a herb grown in Europe, the Mediterranean region, and western Asia used in alternative and Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
This clover-like plant produces small yellow, white, or purplish-blue flowers with seeds contained within a pod. While the leaves of the fenugreek plant are edible, the seeds are more commonly used in cooking and dietary supplements.
The fenugreek seeds are slightly sweet and provide an excellent option for adding a hint of flavor to many different dishes. Their thickening properties also make them a popular additive to beauty products.
As a dietary supplement, fenugreek is promoted to have benefits for individuals with diabetes, menstrual cramps, and low testosterone, among other conditions.
How we chose the best fenugreek supplements
| Price-to-value | Quality | Form | Clinical research |
| $6.11–27.18 | Use of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and third-party testing | Seeds, capsules, powders, teas, and extracts | Scientific studies providing support for its use |
- Price-to-value. Products offering high-quality ingredients at reasonable prices are important to ensure you are getting the best for your money.
- Quality. Using certified manufacturing facilities and testing finished products reduces risks of contamination and verifies ingredients and content.
- Form. Depending on personal preference, the form of fenugreek may provide additional benefits for the user.
- Clinical research. Scientific evidence supporting the use of fenugreek is important but should not take the place of a discussion with your medical provider.
How to decide on the right fenugreek supplement for you
Picking the best supplement for yourself can be difficult but these four factors can help you narrow down the choices.
- Form. This comes down to personal preference in many situations. Capsules and tablets offer convenience, but powders offer the ability to mix in many different recipes. If you have difficulty swallowing pills or measuring powders, it is important to exclude these options.
- Ingredients. The addition of other ingredients can increase the risk of interactions or interfere with the effectiveness of fenugreek.
- Dosage. A one-dosage-fits-all approach cannot be taken when evaluating fenugreek supplements. Scientific studies have evaluated specific dosages for certain health benefits and it is important to talk with your healthcare provider to determine the best dose for you.
- Allergies. People who are allergic to peanuts, chickpeas, or other legumes should not use fenugreek. Fenugreek belongs to the legume family, which results in cross-reactivity.
Best fenugreek supplements: an overview
For centuries, fenugreek has been used for its medicinal properties and continues to be promoted for various health conditions.
Additionally, women have sought the help of fenugreek for increasing breast milk production or menstrual cramps. Not to be outdone, men have explored the potential of the testosterone-boosting properties of fenugreek. Individuals with diabetes may use it to assist in managing blood sugar levels.
While more research is needed to verify fenugreek's effectiveness, one should always discuss it with your healthcare provider before starting, especially when breastfeeding.
Fenugreek supplements should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor and should not be used to treat or cure any health condition such as diabetes.
1. Nutricost — overall best fenugreek supplement
Amazon rating – 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating – 1.7 ⭐
Nutricost Fenugreek Seed is made in the U.S. from globally sourced ingredients, providing 675 mg of powder made from fenugreek seeds per capsule, potentially beneficial for individuals looking to enhance testosterone levels.
It is manufactured in FDA-registered facilities in compliance with cGMP. Each product is verified using third-party testing to ensure the contents of the capsules and their purity.
This fenugreek supplement is a non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free product compatible with many different dietary restrictions.
With a serving size of two capsules every day, taken with 8–12 ounces of water, each bottle will provide a 120-day supply. At the available cost of $16.95 per bottle, customers are able to get a great product at a reasonable price. Thus, this supplement has been selected as Amazon's choice product.
Amazon Subscribe and Save is available, saving an additional 10% off the already reduced price.
Key features
What users like about the product
Customers who have purchased this product are often happy with the effectiveness, quality, and value of this herbal supplement.
What users don't like about the product
Consumers do not like that some of the products have lost their maple syrup smell, and some have experienced gastrointestinal upset and rashes when starting the product.
Company review
Nutricost is a trusted supplement company that strives to produce high-quality products with the best ingredients to maximize the benefits of their supplements. Knowing everyone's body is different, Nutricost keeps its recipes simple allowing users to get what they need without being bothered with a long list of ingredients.
With Nutricost, we feel this company has found a great balance between quality and affordability. That being said, there are no shortcuts with this company as they use cGMP-compliant facilities and third-party testing to ensure you get the highest quality for your money. We have noticed the reviews are less than stellar on Trustpilot; however, this product comes highly recommended on Amazon, where issues with customer service can be minimized.
Overall, Nutricost offers a wide selection of health and wellness supplements making this one of our go to brands.
Brief summary about Nutricost Fenugreek Seed
Nutricost Fenugreek Seed is a quality product for the price. The third-party testing and cGMP compliant facilities provide confidence you are getting the best product possible. While some have issues with the capsules losing their smell, the positive reviews are abundant for this product.
2. Nature's Way — best vegan friendly fenugreek supplement
Amazon rating – 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating – 2.8 ⭐⭐
Nature's Way product, containing 1,130 mg of fenugreek seed per serving (two capsules), is marketed specifically for women seeking to boost their breast milk production. While it may help increase breast milk production, it is best to seek professional advice before starting any supplement.
This product is manufactured in facilities compliant with cGMP and are shipped in bottles containing 50% recycled plastics.
This fenugreek supplement is vegan-friendly and utilizes non-GMO sources of fenugreek seeds. This product is free of artificial colors, artificial flavors, and preservatives. It also is compatible with soy and dairy-free diets.
Depending on whether you take the supplement two to three times a day as recommended by Nature's Way, this supplement comes in a bottle, providing a 3 to 5-month supply for $26.99.
Amazon subscribe and save offers 5% off the already reduced sale price.
Key features of Nature's Way fenugreek seed
What users like about the product
Consumers like the increased milk production and health benefits of this product. In addition, they are happy with the value and price of this supplement.
What users don't like about the product
Customers have complained this supplement causes them to be gassy and gastric issues. While a small number of customers have complained of the smell and taste of this supplement.
Company review
For over 50 years, Nature's Way has provided trusted, quality products by partnering with farmers and suppliers. Nature's Way has over 400 unique health and wellness products available to support all ages.
In addition, they are one of the first companies to be current Good Manufacturing Practices-certified by NSF. This company supports the notion for better quality supplements by leading organizations that elevate dietary supplement standards and advocates for improvements for all.
We are particularly impressed with Nature's Way's commitment to product safety and investment in high-quality facilities and on-site laboratory testing. While third-party testing is preferred, the company's detail to excellence should not be overlooked.
Overall, Nature's Way is a respected manufacturer of health and wellness products, providing customers with the comfort of knowing that their well-being is of paramount importance to this company.
Brief summary about Nature's Way fenugreek weed
Nature's Way Fenugreek Seed is a high-quality product at a good price point. While third-party testing is perferred, Nature's Way does utilized on-site lab testing to ensure product quality. This product ideal for vegan customers and those seeking a product free from all artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
3. NOW — best fenugreek supplement for testosterone
Amazon rating – 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating – No ratings
NOW is a family-owned company that packages and quality tests their fenugreek supplement in the U.S. using globally sourced ingredients. The product offers 500 mg capsules that may aid in boosting testosterone.
Each product is manufactured in an NPA A-rated, cGMP-certified facility that ensures every aspect of the manufacturing has been evaluated.
This product uses non-GMO sources of fenugreek and produces a product that is compliant with vegan dietary restrictions. This product is also free from dairy and soy.
The serving size of this product is two capsules to be taken one to three times a day. At the lowest dose, this would allow the 100-count bottle to last 50 days at a cost of $9.99.
Amazon offers a subscribe and save option to save an additional 5% off the already reduced price.
Main ingredients
What users like about the product
Customers are impressed with the quality of this product as well as the overall price point. Reviews have also indicated they are happy with the ability of this supplement to increase breast milk production.
What users don't like about the product
Consumers have complained about this product causing stomach upset and alterations in the smell of the product. Additionally, some have had concerns about the consistency of the product quality.
Company review
NOW has been a manufacturer of wellness supplements for over 50 years. They continue to demand superior quality, sustainable sourcing, and transparency at all levels in their commitment to consumers everywhere.
This company is also committed to giving back to the community via many different charities and activities and is a founding supporter of Vitamin Angels, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving nutrition for pregnant mothers, infants, and children in disadvantaged communities around the world.
We at HealthNews are particularly impressed with the NPA A-rating of NOW's manufacturing process and their commitment to reduce their carbon footprint by offering 100% post-consumer resin bottles.
Overall, NOW is a company committed to improving the health and wellness of their consumers while focusing to improve the production and safety of supplements.
Brief summary about NOW Fenugreek
NOW Fenugreek supplements are great for those with restricted diets such as vegan or dairy-free. The manufacturer is a well-known supplier of health and wellness supplements and offers a high-quality product at an acceptable price point.
4. Solaray — best eco-friendly fenugreek supplement
Amazon rating – 4.6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating – 2.9 ⭐⭐
Solaray supplement, manufactured to contain 1,240 mg of fenugreek per serving, uses in-facility testing to verify content and purity. This product may benefit those wishing to support breast milk production and has received numerous positive reviews indicating customer satisfaction.
This product is produced in facilities that are cGMP certified. It is also assembled in the US (Utah) from globally scoured ingredients.
The fenugreek in this product is non-GMO certified and is processed in a vegan-friendly manner. This supplement is also bottled in a 100% post-consumer recycled bottle.
The dosage recommended for this product is to take two capsules twice a day. This provides a 45-day supply per bottle. Each bottle costs $13.99 without any discount by registering with Amazon's subscribe and save program.
Key features of Solaray fenugreek
What users like about the product
Users of the Solaray supplement are impressed with the effectiveness and overall quality of the product.
What users don't like about the product
Consumers do not like the overall price and recommended dosing of this product. In addition, some consumers have complained the product made their baby colicky and gassy.
Company review
Solaray is a company based in the U.S. that is committed to producing high-quality products with globally sourced ingredients.
The company has an expansive portfolio of over 700 vitamin, mineral, herbal, and other supplements available at many wellness retailers and online. Additionally, they provide a line of products specifically developed for women that provides support as you age.
We are specifically impressed with the scientific process they utilize to evaluate their products. In-house Master's and Ph.D. scientists lead their on-site testing laboratory. While a third-party lab would be preferred to reduce the possibility of bias, their commitment is evident with all the certifications they hold.
Overall, this U.S.-based company has continued to provide high-quality products and innovative products making it a trusted name in the health and wellness arena.
Brief summary about Solaray fenugreek
Solaray Fenugreek is a vegan-friendly product manufactured in the United States from globally sourced ingredients. While it is expensive compared to other products, many customers have been satisfied with the quality of the product and are happy with the results and experience of using this supplement.
5. Gaia Herbs — best liquid capsule fenugreek supplement
Amazon rating – 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
TrustPilot rating – No reviews
Gaia Herbs manufactures this product to provide 1,170 mg of organic fenugreek seed per serving in a unique liquid phyto-cap, promoting it as a traditional lactation aid for its potential benefits in increasing breast milk.
Gaia Herbs is a certified B-corporation earned by companies that operate with the highest level of transparency and social and environmental accountability. In-house purity testing is performed on each product and a traceability tool is available to track the testing of your particular batch.
While third-party testing and cGMP certifications are not apparent on their website, this product has been extensively reviewed to provide a high-quality product.
A bottle of Gaia Herbs Fenugreek Seed contains only 20 servings, which, when taken at the recommended dosage of twice daily provides a 10-day supply. At $27.18, this is the most expensive on our list.
Amazon offers a subscribe and save option to save an additional 10%.
Key features of Gaia Herbs fenugreek seed
What users like about the product
Consumers of this product are happy with the results and quality of the product. Many reviewers do not seem to have significant issues taking these pills on an empty stomach.
What users don't like about the product
Customers using this product do not like the price of the product and the limited servings provided per bottle.
Company review
Gaia Herbs is a U.S.-operated company (in North Carolina) that grows many of their herbs on their North Carolina farm. This company was developed in 1987 and has been committed to producing high-quality supplements since day one.
Gaia Herbs is committed to adhering to environmental regulations such as their USDA Certified facility, responsible sourcing methods, and ROC(R) certified organic farm.
We are particularly impressed with the unique transparency tool on their website that allows consumers to track their products. In addition, this company has achieved a certified B-corp designation for its transparency and environmental accountability which are two aspects truly important to us at Healthnews.
Overall, Gaia Herbs has become a trusted name in the health and wellness arena. With its wide variety of supplements and commitment to transparency and advancement of natural and herbal health solutions, it has become a leader in the field.
Brief summary about Gaia Herbs fenugreek
Gaia Herbs Fenugreek is a unique product offering liquid phyto-caps to deliver a 1,170 mg dose per serving. Despite not using independent lab testing, this product undergoes extensive in-house testing, with results easily found on its website. This level of transparency has earned it a certified B-corporation designation.
Comparing the best fenugreek supplements
| Brand | Price | Price per serving | Serving size | Fenugreek per serving | Independent or in-house testing |
| Nutricost | $16.95 | $0.14 | 2 capsules | 1,350 mg | Independent |
| Nature's Way | $26.99 | $0.17 | 2 capsules | 1,130 mg | In-house |
| NOW | $9.99 | $0.20 | 2 capsules | 1,000 mg | None |
| Solaray | $13.99 | $0.16 | 2 capsules | 1,240 mg | In-house |
| Gaia Herbs | $27.18 | $1.36 | 3 capsules | 1,170 mg | In-house |
Why do we think Nutricost Fenugreek Seed is the best fenugreek supplement?
Here at Healthnews, we have performed extensive research to evaluate fenugreek supplements, and in our opinion, Nutricost Fenugreek Seed is the best product on the market.
We are particularly impressed with their use of independent third-party testing to verify the potency and purity of their supplement while offering it at an affordable price point. This provides this product with a high price-to-value rating.
At the same time, the scientific evidence supporting the use of fenugreek requires more research to verify the benefits, the current support for fenugreek makes this Nutricost product worth discussing with your healthcare professional.
Types of fenugreek supplements
Fenugreek is described as having a taste profile similar to maple syrup. This allows it to be used in many different preparations without having to cover up an unpleasant taste. We provide a short list of the available types of supplements and their advantages and disadvantages.
- Capsules or tablets provide accurate dosages and the convenience factor of pills. However, for those with swallowing issues, this would not be the preferred type of supplement.
- Powders are better suited for individuals finding pills difficult to swallow and provide the added benefit of adding the powder to baking goods (i.e. cookies), but this increases the difficulty of measuring individual dosages.
- Tea is a common way to enjoy fenugreek, providing a soothing beverage that is easy to consume. However, some may not like the time necessary for preparing the tea.
- Liquid extracts provide highly concentrated forms commonly added to water however the taste may not appeal to everyone.
Health benefits of fenugreek supplements
Despite fenugreek having a long history of use as an alternative medicine, limited high-quality data exists confirming its health benefits but some encouraging studies have been conducted.
Increasing testosterone
One of the most common reasons men use fenugreek is its potential to boost testosterone levels and improve one's libido.
In a small randomized controlled study, men taking 300 mg of fenugreek twice daily in addition to a 4-day per week resistance training regimen saw a greater increase in testosterone levels from baseline and reduced body fat percentages.
Similarly, a meta-analysis of four clinical trials showed that fenugreek can increase serum testosterone levels at dosages ranging from 250 to 600 mg per day.
While these studies provide encouraging support for the testosterone-boosting effects of fenugreek, more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Blood sugar control
In one study, patients with type II diabetes consumed 5 g of fenugreek powder twice a day before meals for two months. Upon conclusion of the study, fenugreek consumers showed significant improvements in fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c levels.
A meta-analysis of 14 studies showed decreases in post-meal glucose levels, hemoglobin A1c, and fasting blood glucose levels in participants using fenugreek supplements. While these studies report encouraging findings, high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Thus, many seek fenugreek to aid in lowering blood sugar levels. However, it is important to talk with your doctor before starting to avoid episodes of low blood sugar.
Increased breast milk production
One study evaluated the benefits of fenugreek tea on breast milk production by assessing growth parameters in infants of mothers who consumed the tea. This randomized trial showed babies increased their weight, head circumference, and number of dirty diapers significantly in the women consuming fenugreek tea.
Another study evaluated the volume of breast milk produced by women consuming fenugreek tea. Compared to women not receiving fenugreek, fenugreek tea significantly increased milk production and helped the infants regain their birth weight faster.
Furthermore, in a study looking at the effects of fenugreek on the breastfeeding of pre-term infants, no adverse effects were noted in the mothers and babies.
While the results of these studies are encouraging, fenugreek still needs to be further evaluated for its safety during breastfeeding with high-quality studies.
The National Institute of Health warns that other studies have shown mixed results and that "Little is known about whether it’s safe to use fenugreek in amounts greater than those found in food while breastfeeding." Therefore, we recommend talking to your doctor about using fenugreek while breastfeeding.
Improved cholesterol levels
The use of fenugreek supplements has been shown to have beneficial effects on the lipid profile of adults receiving the supplements.
This included improvements in total cholesterol, LDL "bad" cholesterol, HDL "good" cholesterol, and triglycerides. However, there was significant variability in the studies, thus, higher-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Additionally, studies evaluating the benefits of fenugreek in patients with clinically diagnosed lipid problems are needed before any recommendations in this population can be provided. Discuss with your healthcare provider to see if fenugreek can be added to your heart-healthy diet.
Who should consider taking fenugreek supplements?
Fenugreek supplements have long been considered herbal alternatives for several medical conditions. In addition, various clinical studies indicate fenugreek may be beneficial for individuals wishing to boost breast milk production, improve blood sugar levels, increase testosterone, or as an addition to a healthy diet.
While high-quality studies are still needed, fenugreek may be an option for those considering a herbal supplement.
It is advised that you talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. If after a discussion, it is deemed fenugreek is safe for you to take, this article provides the needed information to select a high-quality product in a variety of different forms.
How to use fenugreek supplements
Fenugreek supplements differ in formulations and strengths and is difficult to recommend a single daily dosage for everyone in every situation. Therefore, it is important to read the manufacturers recommendations, as well as talk with your doctor or pharmacist to help decide the best dosage for you.
Studies evaluating the testosterone-boosting effects of fenugreek have used 250 to 600 mg per day. While much larger doses have been used to boost breast milk (1 to 6 grams), and even larger doses to produce dietary benefits on cholesterol (5 to 25 grams). These doses are experimental and further data would be needed to establish safety and efficacy in long-term use.
Overall the most appropriate dosage will be based on the reason for using the supplement and the formulation used.
Best fenugreek supplement — conclusion
Fenugreek is generally recognized as safe by the FDA as a food additive; however, the larger doses recommended for health benefits still require additional studies to fully evaluate it's safety.
Small studies have shown fenugreek to provide benefits to one's overall health and wellness, making it a worthwhile supplement to consider.
As you can see, fenugreek is not an overly expensive product; however, that does not mean that any supplement will do.
It is important to evaluate each product to ensure credible manufacturing processes are used and testing is performed to ensure the purity and potency of the product.
Despite being a natural supplement with years of use, this supplement can interact with certain medications and health conditions. So, whether you are considering fenugreek to boost breast milk production, increase testosterone levels, or improve blood glucose levels, it is important to have a conversation with your healthcare professional before starting the supplement.
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FAQ
Can fenugreek supplements be used for weight loss?
More research is needed. The current evidence is conflicting as to the benefits of fenugreek supplements on weight loss and more research is needed to determine its benefits. However, one study has shown that increasing fenugreek fiber intake to 8 grams per day can improve satiety and result in less food intake at meals.
How long should I take fenugreek supplements to see results?
It varies from person to person. The onset of effects depends on the reason you are taking the supplement. Some people may notice a difference within a few weeks, while others may take longer.
Can men benefit from taking fenugreek supplements?
Possibly. As described in the article, there are small studies that show fenugreek supplements to be beneficial in raising testosterone levels. Additionally, fenugreek has shown some promise in lowering blood glucose and cholesterol levels independent of the sex of the person. While these studies still require confirmation, this supplement can be beneficial in men.
Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided while taking fenugreek supplements?
Supplements that can lower blood sugar levels. A balanced diet is recommended while taking fenugreek supplements and it does not appear to be any specific foods or drinks one should avoid. However, it is important to avoid taking additional supplements that can lower blood sugar levels or thin the blood. These medications can interact with fenugreek and cause unwanted side effects.
11 resources
- Journal of Sport Health Science. Beneficial effects of fenugreek glycoside supplementation in male subjects during resistance training: A randomized controlled pilot study.
- Phytotherapy Research. Effect of fenugreek extract supplement on testosterone levels in male: A meta-analysis of clinical trials.
- Galen Medical Journal. Effect of Fenugreek Use on Fasting Blood Glucose, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, Blood Pressure and Quality of Life in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials.
- Medicina. Effect of Fenugreek on Hyperglycemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
- Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal. The Effect of Herbal Tea Containing Fenugreek Seed on the Signs of Breast Milk Sufficiency in Iranian Girl Infants.
- Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The effect of galactagogue herbal tea on breast milk production and short-term catch-up of birth weight in the first week of life.
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Effect of fenugreek supplementation on blood lipids and body weight: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Nutrition Journal. Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) intake on glycemia: a meta-analysis of clinical trials.
- Phytotherapy Research. Effect of fenugreek fiber on satiety, blood glucose and insulin response and energy intake in obese subjects.
- Clinical Lactation. The Effect of Fenugreek on Milk Production and Prolactin Levels in Mothers of Preterm Infants.
- National Institute of Health. Fenugreek.
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