Abstract
Chronic inflammation is a major factor in various degenerative diseases. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is often the main choice, but long-term side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation and nephrotoxicity limit their use. Therefore, natural alternatives such as Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) have attracted attention due to their bioactive compound contents with anti-inflammatory properties. This narrative review was conducted through a systematic search of articles from the last 10 years in PubMed and Scopus. Keywords used a combination of MeSH and free terms related to fenugreek and anti-inflammatory agents. In vitro and in vivo studies evaluating the anti-inflammatory effects of fenugreek were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. In vitro studies showed that fenugreek crude extract, solvent fractions, and isolated bioactive compounds decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Nitric Oxide (NO), and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). The bioactive compounds of fenugreek such as flavonoids and saponins play a role in inhibiting Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS), Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), Lipoxygenase (LOX), and Hyaluronic Acid (HYA). In vivo studies confirmed decreased leukocyte infiltration, proinflammatory cytokines, and increased antioxidants such as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione (GSH). Fenugreek extract and its compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of inflammatory mediators and enhancement of the antioxidant system. These mechanisms strengthen its potential as a natural adjunct therapy, especially in chronic inflammatory conditions that are not optimally managed by NSAIDs. Fenugreek has significant potential as a safe, botanical anti-inflammatory agent. Further studies, including clinical trials, are needed to support its widespread use in the long-term management of inflammation.
Recommended Citation
Christella, Angel; Ismail, Dzava P. F.; and Halimah, Eli
(2025)
"Anti-Inflammatory Actions of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. in Acute and Chronic Inflammation: Insights from Preclinical Studies,"
Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy Research: Vol. 10:
Iss.
3, Article 6.
Available at:
https://journal.unpad.ac.id/pcpr/vol10/iss3/6
Included in
Medical Pharmacology Commons, Other Pharmacology, Toxicology and Environmental Health Commons, Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Economics Commons, Pharmacy Administration, Policy and Regulation Commons
