2025, VOL. 11 ISSUE 3, PART F
Therapeutic potential of cinnamon, garlic and fenugreek in cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus: A comprehensive review
Author(s): Rashika Borkar and Mrunmayee Joglekar
Abstract:
This comprehensive review evaluates the therapeutic potential of cinnamon, garlic, and fenugreek in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus (DM). Current evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses highlights the effectiveness of cinnamon in improving glycaemic control, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and markers of systemic inflammation. Garlic exhibits multifaceted effects, including hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, and antithrombotic properties, as well as enhancement of insulin sensitivity and reduction of oxidative stress. Fenugreek demonstrates hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, and anti-inflammatory activities, with bioactive constituents that improve glucose tolerance, lipid metabolism, and insulin function. Mechanistically, these botanicals modulate cellular metabolic processes, enzyme activities, and inflammatory signalling pathways, contributing to improved metabolic profiles and cardiovascular outcomes. The review synthesizes recent advances, clinical trial outcomes, and mechanistic evidence supporting the safe and effective integration of cinnamon, garlic, and fenugreek as adjunctive therapies, alongside conventional management of cardiovascular and diabetes care. Further large-scale clinical studies are needed to define optimal dosing parameters and characterize nutrient-nutraceutical interactions.