Chromium uptake by Fenugreek

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum) is both [1] herb (leaves) and a spice (seed) belonging to the family Fabaceae. Fenugreek leaves and seeds are used in the cuisine of India. Fenugreek also has [1] medicinal value. Fenugreek seeds are known [2] to reduce serum glucose and improve glucose tolerance and hence are prescribed to diabetic patients. In the recent past supplemental Chromium is being prescribed to diabetic patients [3] to activate (increasedinsulin binding, insulin receptor number, insulin receptor phosphorylation) insulin. Plants can uptake substantial quantities of toxic metals from contaminated soils [4] if these soils are well ameliorated.