Pregnancy: Fenugreek is likely unsafe in pregnancy when used in amounts greater than those in food. It might cause malformations in the baby, as well as early contractions. Taking fenugreek just before delivery may also cause the newborn to have an unusual body odour, which could be confused with “maple syrup urine disease.” This odour does not appear to cause long-term effects.
Fenugreek is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in children. Some reports have linked fenugreek tea to loss of consciousness in children. An unusual body odour resembling maple syrup may also occur in children drinking fenugreek tea.
Fenugreek can affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes and use fenugreek.