Fenugreek herb has been used for centuries as a cooking spice in Europe and remains a popular ingredient in pickles, curry powders, and spice mixtures in India and other parts of Asia.

In folk medicine, fenugreek has been used to treat boils, inflammation of the cells and connective tissue, and tuberculosis. It was a key ingredient in a 19th century patent medicine Lydia Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, which was used for painful menstruation and postmenopausal symptoms. It has also has been recommended to stimulate milk production.

Fenugreek seeds have been used as an oral insulin substitute, and seed extracts have been reported to lower blood glucose levels. The maple smell and flavor of fenugreek has led to its use in imitation maple syrup.