>> Isn't it in Sheila Humphrey's book where one can learn that fenugreek can
interfere with the action of almost every other medication?<<

I didn't find this in Sheila's book, but the idea is most likely drawn from
the fact that fenugreek has a high mucilage content, as noted in Herb-Drug
Interaction Handbook (3rd edition, Herr) The mucilage content plays a role
in fenugreek's cholesterol-reducing properties, similar to oatmeal and other
high fiber foods. Herbs OR foods with high mucilage content can slow down or
reduce intestinal absorption of medications. Psyllium, which is used for
fiber in laxatives such as Metamucil, is also high in mucilage but no one is
worried about the interference with medications. 

It seems that concerns are more due to the fact that fenugreek is not a
familiar herb to us in the western world. When we try to understand it
through the lens of in vitro analysis, it is easy to lose perspective and
project concerns that may be out of proportion to the in vivo reality. There
are some drugs that just shouldn't be taken with some kinds of foods, or ANY
foods, for proper absorption. Fenugreek should not be singled out from all
the other high fiber foods as being somehow more worrisome.

Perhaps Sheila will be able to respond and clarify her own position.

~Lisa Marasco MA IBCLC

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