Anti-diabetic effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): A comparison between oral and intraperitoneal administration - an animal study

Herbal medicine is used by millions of diabetic patients due to economic and cultural factors. The current study investigates the antidiabetic potential of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg in a Streptozocin-induced diabetic model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received either intraperitoneal fenugreek [daily (ED) or every other day (EOD)] or oral fenugreek supplement daily, for four weeks. Results show that fenugreek significantly reduced blood glucose. Urea levels were reduced after daily intraperitoneal injection, and creatinine levels dropped after oral treatment, respectively. AST and ALT levels were reduced following fenugreek treatment, while protein levels significantly increased. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) increased after daily injections, while triglycerides decreased significantly in all groups. Glutathione S-transferase and catalase increased with treatment, while peroxidase antioxidant enzyme levels were reduced. Glutathione peroxidase levels increased only after daily injection. Histologically, fenugreek mildly protected hepatic, renal, and pancreatic tissues. In conclusion, the current study shows some potential benefits of fenugreek use. Oral and injectable fenugreek showed improvement in blood glucose, renal and liver functions. Although triglyceride levels decreased significantly, no significant changes in cholesterol levels were seen after fenugreek use. Higher doses and longer fenugreek treatment duration are recommended for the optimum protection of the liver, kidneys, and pancreatic tissues.