Fenugreek - Keflex (Cephalexin) Interaction
Herbal: Fenugreek
Also Known As: Trigonella foenum-graecum, Alholva, Bird's Foot, Chandrika, Fenogreco, Fenugrec, Foenugreek, Greek Clover, Greek Hay, Hu Lu Ba, Methi, Methika, Medhika, Senegrain, Senegre, Trigonella, Trigonelle
Drug: Cephalexin
Brand names:
Keflex, Keftab, Cephalex, Lexin
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Cephalexin and Fenugreek. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Fenugreek is generally considered relatively safe in regard to potential drug interactions.
Nevertheless, interactions are possible between fenugreek and:
- 'Blood-thinning' drugs
- Drugs that lower blood pressure
- Drugs that low blood sugar
Fenugreek contains some components that can prevent blood from clotting. However, there is not enough research to confirm whether the amount of these components present in common fenugreek products can have a clinically significant effect.
Fenugreek may also have an additive effect with blood sugar-lowering medication and blood pressure-lowering medication.
All of these potential interactions are documented individually on our specific drug-herbal interaction pages.
Is Fenugreek Safe With Keflex?
Fenugreek is not known to interact with most antibiotic medications, including cephalexin (generic for Keflex).
While fenugreek may have additive effects with several different classes of drugs (e.g., blood-pressure medications and anticoagulants), it is not known to affect any liver metabolizing enzymes and is not known to affect how any antibiotic works.
In fact, some studies even suggest fenugreek may have mild antimicrobial effects (one study suggests it may help heal ulcers caused by the bacteria H.pylori faster).
Overall, there is no indication fenugreek interacts with cephalexin and they are generally considered safe to take together.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDFenugreek Overview
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant native to the Mediterranean region and western Asia. The seeds have a nutty, slightly bitter taste and are commonly used in different types of cuisine. The leaves, which are known as "methi," are used in cooking as well.
In addition to its use as a spice and herb, fenugreek has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Some studies have suggested that fenugreek may have potential health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation. It may also have potential benefits for women who are breastfeeding, as it is thought to increase milk production and improve the quality of breast milk.
Cephalexin Overview
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Cephalexin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; and infections of the bone, skin, ears, , genital, and urinary tract. Cephalexin is in a class of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria.
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Antibiotics such as cephalexin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Fenugreek - More Interactions
Fenugreek interacts with 384 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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