Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum L.):A Comprehensive Review of PhylogeneticDiversity, Metabolomic Profiles, andPharmacological Applications

Abstract

One of the classical components of traditional medicine and cuisine, fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) has recently received more attention due to its seeds and leaves, which are highly valued due to their high nutritional value, strong pharmacological ability, and the possibility of reliable substitution into modern applications. The brief
cultivation cycle, rising global demand, robust yields, and low production costs have elevated fenugreek’s status beyond seed-focused farming, spotlighting its leaves and whole-plant utility. Phylogenetic explorations via molecular markers like random amplified polymorphic DNA, amplified fragment length polymorphism, inter-simple sequence repeat, and simple sequence repeats illuminate its evolutionary heritage, genetic variability, and breeding prospects within the Fabaceae family. Enhanced molecular breeding takes advantage of these findings and produces superior varieties with superior phytochemical composition and agronomical character. As a powerhouse of antioxidants,
steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, fenugreek rivals synthetic alternatives in nutraceuticals, offering antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and cardio-protective benefits. This review underscores its phylogenetic, nutritional, metabolomic, and pharmacological merits, advocating for variant selection to boost conservation, food security, and sustainable practices, while unlocking potentials in phytoremediation, functional foods, and novel therapeutics.