Fenugreek - Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) 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: Warfarin Sodium
Brand names:
Coumadin, Panwarfin, Sofarin
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
Warfarin Sodium is classified as belonging to the following category: Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, fenugreek might have additive effects when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Some of the constituents in fenugreek have antiplatelet effects in animal and in vitro research. However, common fenugreek products might not contain sufficient concentrations of these constituents for clinical effects. A clinical study in patients with coronary artery disease or diabetes shows that taking fenugreek seed powder 2.5 grams twice daily for 3 months does not affect platelet aggregation, fibrinolytic activity, or fibrinogen levels .
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
UnlikelyInteraction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.
Pharmacist Analysis
It is important to note that most studies evaluating the anticoagulant and antiplatelet effects of fenugreek have only been done in a lab setting or in animals. Human studies are scarce.
However, there have been a few case reports suggesting that fenugreek can potentiate the effects of warfarin. This seems to be uncommon but we don't know what could put any specific individual at more risk for an interaction occurring.
Overall, the risk of additive 'blood-thinning' effects seems to be quite low, but is nevertheless important to be aware of.
If you take blood-thinning drugs, it is important you speak with your doctor before starting fenugreek so you can be appropriately monitored.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDReferences
- Lambert J, Cormier J. Potential interaction between warfarin and boldo-fenugreek. Pharmacotherapy 2001;21:509-12.
- Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty
- Parvizpur, A., Ahmadiani, A., and Kamalinejad, M. Probable role of spinal purinoceptors in the analgesic effect of Trigonella foenum (TFG) leaves extract. J Ethnopharmacol 3-8-2006;104(1-2):108-112.
Interaction Details
Warfarin Sodium is classified as belonging to the following category: Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, fenugreek might have additive effects with warfarin and increase the international normalized ratio (INR).
Some fenugreek constituents have antiplatelet effects, although these might not be present in concentrations that are clinically significant. In one case report, a patient taking warfarin experienced an increased INR when starting to take fenugreek in combination with boldo.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Lambert J, Cormier J. Potential interaction between warfarin and boldo-fenugreek. Pharmacotherapy 2001;21:509-12.
- Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty
Fenugreek 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.
Warfarin Sodium Overview
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Warfarin is used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger in your blood and blood vessels. It is prescribed for people with certain types of irregular heartbeat, people with prosthetic (replacement or mechanical) heart valves, and people who have suffered a heart attack. Warfarin is also used to treat or prevent venous thrombosis (swelling and blood clot in a vein) and pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung). Warfarin is in a class of medications called anticoagulants ('blood thinners'). It works by decreasing the clotting ability of the blood.
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.
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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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