Interaction databaseSupplement × PrescriptionReviewed May 2026

Fenugreek and Warfarin, a caution.

Fenugreek aqueous extract inhibits coagulation in vitro and significantly prolongs prothrombin time. A well-documented case describes a warfarin-stable patient whose INR rose after starting boldo and fenugreek, normalised after stopping, then rose again on rechallenge. Fenugreek's coumarin content is the suspected driver.

One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
Same shape as the other 1,729 pairs in the public database.

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At a glance

Substances
Fenugreek and Warfarin
Pair type
Caution
Evidence (highest tier)
Emerging
Source citations
2 sources
Stack Score effect
−5 to your Stack Score (per scored caution row).
Scope
Supplement × Prescription
Last verified
May 30, 2026

Caution · Emerging evidence

Caution

What is happening. Fenugreek aqueous extract inhibits coagulation in vitro and significantly prolongs prothrombin time. A well-documented case describes a warfarin-stable patient whose INR rose after starting boldo and fenugreek, normalised after stopping, then rose again on rechallenge. Fenugreek's coumarin content is the suspected driver.

Mechanism. Fenugreek contains coumarin compounds that may have intrinsic anticoagulant activity additive to warfarin. Aqueous extracts have been shown to dose-dependently prolong prothrombin time, suggesting direct inhibition of vitamin K-dependent factors.

Recommendation. Avoid fenugreek supplements while on warfarin. Culinary use of small amounts of fenugreek seeds in food is unlikely to cause problems. Tell your anticoagulation clinic before starting any fenugreek supplement and ask for an INR check within 1-2 weeks.

Sources (2)
  1. Lambert JP, Cormier J. Potential interaction between warfarin and boldo-fenugreek. Pharmacotherapy. 2001;21(4):509-12. PMID 11310527
  2. Tan CSS, Lee SWH. Warfarin and food, herbal or dietary supplement interactions: A systematic review. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2021;87(2):352-374. PMID 32478963

Stack Score

How this pair moves the number.

Effect on the composite score

If both Fenugreek and Warfarin are in the same stack, this pair applies −5 to your Stack Score (per scored caution row).

The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.

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