Health Benefits of Fenugreek and Black Seed in Managing Diabetes

Jim Crocker
11th June, 2024

Health Benefits of Fenugreek and Black Seed in Managing Diabetes

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study by the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, explored the effects of fenugreek and black cumin seeds on diabetes in albino rats
  • Both seeds were found to have significant nutritional and antioxidant properties
  • Treatment with these seeds significantly reduced blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and improved insulin resistance in diabetic rats
  • The seeds also increased insulin levels and body weight, and enhanced pancreatic β-cell health
Diabetes mellitus, a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, stands as one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Recent research conducted by the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, aimed to explore the nutraceutical and therapeutic efficacy of fenugreek seeds (FSs) (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and black cumin seeds (BCSs) (Nigella sativa) against streptozotocin-induced diabetes in albino rats[1]. The study focused on the proximate analysis, phytochemical content, and antioxidant activities of FSs and BCSs. Proximate analysis revealed significant amounts of moisture, ash, fat, protein, and fiber in both seeds. Antioxidant parameters, including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content, were also found to be significant. These findings suggest that both FSs and BCSs possess substantial nutritional and antioxidant properties. To evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic activities, male albino rats were treated with FSs and BCSs for 42 days. Blood samples were collected weekly to measure blood glucose, plasma insulin, and cholesterol levels. Additionally, the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA IR) index was determined. At the end of the trial, pancreatic tissue was collected for histological examination. The results indicated a significant decrease in blood glucose levels, serum cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance in the treatment groups (T3-T5) compared to the streptozotocin-intoxicated control group. Insulin levels and body weight also showed significant improvement in the treatment groups. Histological examination of the pancreas revealed an increase in the size and number of β-cells, indicating the nutraceutical impact of FSs and BCSs. The findings of this study align with previous research that has demonstrated the antidiabetic properties of fenugreek seeds. For instance, a study on the soluble dietary fiber (SDF) fraction of T. foenum-graecum showed that it significantly improved oral glucose tolerance in both normal and diabetic rats[2]. The SDF fraction was found to suppress blood glucose elevation after oral sucrose ingestion, decrease intestinal disaccharidase activity, and increase gastrointestinal motility. These effects collectively contributed to improved glucose metabolism and enhanced insulin action. Similarly, another study highlighted the role of vitamin C elicited phytochemical-rich aqueous extract of fenugreek sprouts in managing diabetes[3]. The extract demonstrated strong α-glucosidase activity and moderate α-amylase and invertase inhibition activities, which are crucial for reducing post-prandial hyperglycemia. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, the extract significantly improved antioxidant activity, normalized biochemical markers, and decreased blood glucose levels while increasing insulin levels. Black cumin seeds have also been studied for their potential antidiabetic effects. Research on alloxan-induced diabetic rats showed that black seeds significantly ameliorated immune cell alterations and cytokine levels, suggesting their immunomodulatory effects[4]. This study found that treatment with black seeds led to increased lymphocyte numbers and elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-8, which are important for immune function. The current research by the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, builds upon these earlier findings by demonstrating the combined nutraceutical and therapeutic benefits of fenugreek and black cumin seeds in managing diabetes. The study's comprehensive approach, including proximate analysis, antioxidant activity assessment, and in vivo evaluation, provides robust evidence of the efficacy of these medicinal plants. In conclusion, the study underscores the potential of fenugreek and black cumin seeds as effective nutraceuticals for diabetes management. Their significant impact on blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, and pancreatic β-cell health highlights their therapeutic promise. These findings pave the way for further research and potential clinical applications in the treatment of diabetes.

MedicineNutritionHealth

References

Main Study

1) Nutraceutical activities of Trigonella foenum-graecum and Nigella sativa seeds in the management of diabetes-induced in albino rats.

Published 9th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1111/1750-3841.17155

Related Studies

2) Soluble dietary fibre fraction of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed improves glucose homeostasis in animal models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes by delaying carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and enhancing insulin action.

Journal: The British journal of nutrition, Issue: Vol 97, Issue 3, Mar 2007

3) Enhancement of nutraceutical and anti-diabetic potential of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Sprouts with natural elicitors.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsps.2022.11.001

4) Immunomodulatory effects of black seeds and garlic on alloxan-induced Diabetes in albino rat.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aller.2011.07.002


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