Fenugreek Extract
Herb supporting testosterone, libido, and blood sugar management.
By Suplagen Team · Updated
What it is
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed extract contains furostanolic saponins studied for hormonal and glycemic benefits.
How it works
Saponins may inhibit aromatase and 5-alpha-reductase; galactomannan fiber slows carbohydrate absorption.
What the evidence says
Moderate evidence for glycemic control; emerging evidence for testosterone and libido in men.
How much to take
The catalog range is 500 to 600 mg daily, with 600 mg as the ceiling. Standardized extracts (Testofen, 50% saponins) are the studied form.
The evidence is moderate for glycemic control and emerging for testosterone and libido in men. The blood sugar effect is the better-supported one, which surprises people who bought it for the other reason.
When and how to take it
With a meal, in the morning. Cycle it, 8 weeks on and 2 off.
The maple-syrup body odor some people notice is documented and harmless. It appears in both our blood sugar guide and muscle growth guide.
Who should skip it
Off-limits in pregnancy; it's a traditional uterotonic. Peanut and chickpea allergies can cross-react. Interactions: antidiabetic medications (moderate; it lowers glucose too) and anticoagulants (mild). Medicated diabetics need a meter and a doctor before adding it.
Safety Notes
- May cause maple-syrup body odor (harmless). Avoid during pregnancy (traditional uterotonic).
- Cycling: 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Use caution with: pregnancy (uterotonic), peanut/chickpea allergy (cross-reactivity).
- antidiabetic medications: May lower blood sugar; risk of hypoglycemia. Monitor closely.
- anticoagulants: May have mild antiplatelet effects.
Common questions
What is the right fenugreek dosage?
500 to 600 mg of a standardized extract daily with a meal. 600 mg is the ceiling, and the catalog cycles it 8 weeks on, 2 off.
Does fenugreek raise testosterone?
The evidence is emerging, with modest effects at best. Its stronger data is for glycemic control, at a moderate grade.
Why do I smell like maple syrup on fenugreek?
A compound in fenugreek leaves the body through sweat and urine with a maple-like scent. It's harmless and stops when you stop.