Unlocking the potential of fenugreek seeds: non‐thermal atmospheric plasma improved their chemical composition and amplifies their biological value

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the effects of Non‐thermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) treatment on fenugreek seed yield, bioactive metabolites, and biological value. NTAP was applied at 13.56 MHz with power levels of 0 (T0), 50 (T1), 80 (T2), and 120 (T3). NTAP significantly increased seed yield, size, and mass, with T2 resulting in a 95.5% rise in seed mass. Essential minerals, including nitrogen and potassium, increased by 34.6% and 25.1%, respectively. The treatment also enhanced the accumulation of primary metabolites such as fatty acids and secondary metabolites like vitamins, alkaloids, phenolics, and tocopherols. Notably, unsaturated fatty acids, including dodecenoic (C12:1) and octadecenoic (C18:1), rose by up to 116.3%. These biochemical improvements led to a 43% increase in antioxidant activity, a 100% increase in anti‐lipid peroxidation, and broad‐spectrum antimicrobial effects, especially at T2 and T3. NTAP demonstrates strong potential as an innovative method to improve fenugreek’s agricultural productivity and therapeutic value. Further research should assess its long‐term effects and mechanisms under various environmental stresses.