Use of the Herb Fenugreek May Lead to Unwanted Weight Gain - Herbal Health 101

Many women use fenugreek as a natural herbal estrogen supplement, but women should be aware that the use of this herb can cause unwanted weight gain.

I have been studying herbalism and using herbs for more than a decade. Through personal experience I have found that fenugreek can have the unpleasant side effect of weight gain. Like many people I never thought much about the possible side-effects of using herbs, but I am now suffering the consequences of not being fully educated. While herbs can have lower risk of side effects, some may still exist.

About two months ago I added fenugreek back into my herbal regimen, as I recalled how well it worked for correcting the hormonal imbalance caused by my thyroid disorder. Fenugreek herb was recommended to me by my natural care provider. She explained the benefits, but never told me about the possible side-effects. Over the last two months, while taking fenugreek, I noticed a significant increase in my weight. Disturbed by the added weight, I began researching the possible causes.

As it turns out, the weight gain was likely caused by the fenugreek. Apparently, fenugreek is used by women in Asia for the specific purpose of gaining weight quickly. The herb is even recommended for recovering anorexics to help them regain weight quickly. Many women using the fenugreek herb have noted weight gain, and the gain is often rapid. I personally experienced a gain of about 4 pounds a week.

I began thinking back to the last time I was taking fenugreek on a regular basis. I studied the timeline in my head, and found that the last time I experienced rapid weight gain was during a time when I was taking fenugreek. I had gained 25 pounds over the course of just a few months. I then moved and stopped taking the herb, at which point the weight dropped off within about 2-3 months.

Despite the positive effects it has on my hormonal balance, I am discontinuing my use of the fenugreek herb. I work out for 30 minutes every day and have had this habit for a long time, but I am unable to combat the weight gain. If the past repeats itself, I should be able to easily lose the weight after discontinuing use of the herb.

I suggest that anyone using the fenugreek herb be mindful of the possible weight gain that may result. If you have low body weight, this herb may be a great solution, but if your weight is already at a healthy level or you are overweight, you might want to steer clear. If you are interested in taking the herb, I suggest consulting a natural care professional and specifically asking about the possible weight gain and what might be done to combat it.

It's unfortunate that finding the possible side effects of herbs can be difficult. I hope that writing this article will help at least a few people make an educated choice when considering the use of the fenugreek herb. No matter what herbs you use, I highly recommend that you educate yourself as much as possible before beginning any herbal regimen.