Systematic Evaluation of Pesticide Residue Dynamics and their Influence on Biochemical Constituents and Antidiabetic Efficacy of Fenugreek

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an established medicinal plant having substantial therapeutic applications, particularly in the prevention and treatment of type II diabetes mellitus. Fenugreek seeds, which are traditionally used in Indian cuisine, contain bioactive compounds such as diosgenin, galactomannan and 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which contribute to their hypoglycemic properties and metabolic benefits by modulating alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, the key enzymes involved in metabolising carbohydrates and glucose absorption. However, the legacy of the Green Revolution introduced extensive use of synthetic pesticides, notably organochlorines and organophosphates, which led to residue accumulation in agricultural environments and crop matrices. In this context, our study conducts a targeted investigation of fenugreek samples retrieved from local marketplaces in Udaipur, Rajasthan, in order to investigate the residue of pesticides and its impact on medicinal efficacy. We measured pesticide residues and linked their presence to alterations in the plant's bioactive content using modern analytical methods. Anti-diabetic experiments were carried out to explore the inhibitory effects on alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, finding significant diversity related to residue patterns. These findings highlight the possible influence of agricultural contaminants on fenugreek enzymatic modulation and antidiabetic activity. As agriculture transitions toward sustainable models, reconciling productivity with ecological stewardship is essential. Investigating the correlation between pesticide residues and alterations in fenugreek’s bioactive constituents and enzyme-regulating potential provides critical insights into preserving its antidiabetic potency. This research advocates for the integration of residue screening protocols in medicinal plant evaluation and the implementation of reduced-pesticide farming systems. Such initiatives are vital for safeguarding food safety, pharmacological efficacy, and ecological balance, supporting a future where therapeutic reliability and sustainable food systems coexist.