learn about Fenugreek

[Rupal Pandit]

 

Fenugreek has been associated with number of health benefits. It is a common herb and used as a condiment for seasoning in Indian homes. This seed when used in cooking imparts a characteristic flavor and tang to food. Fenugreek leaves are well known for their high nutrient content of minerals and vitamins like potassium, calcium, magnesium, selenium, Iron and vitamin C, riboflavin, folate, vitamin B6. These leaves also have high fiber content and also Vitamin C.  Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of fiber. It contains mucilaginous fiber and total fiber to the extent of 20% and 50% respectively. This mucilaginous fiber is recognized medically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Fenugreek seeds have many medicinal values. These include in the treatment of digestive problems, diabetes, kidney problems, wounds, cellulites, tuberculosis. A PASTE OF Fenugreek leaves or seeds , applied on face prevents pimples, dryness of skin, blackheads and it also have anti aging factors. The Fenugreek seeds contain “Diosgenin” which is more of a raw material substance used in medical steroids by pharmaceutical industries.

• Fenugreek seeds aids in proper digestion: It maintains good metabolism and prevents constipation. The soluble fiber found in Fenugreek seed extract may help slow digestion and absorption of food. It also helps to treat colon disorders. It also increases appetite.
• Fenugreek seeds are effective in treatment of skin disorders: It relieve skin inflammation. It is also used in the treatment of eczema, gout, boils and burns.
• Fenugreek seeds reduce fever: Fenugreek seeds with lemon and honey help to reduce fever and weakness .In fever it is beneficial to consume tea added with fenugreek seeds that helps to lower the intensity of temperature rising.
• Fenugreek eases menopause symptoms: It is effective in treating the menopause symptoms including anxiety, hot flashes and insomnia this is because of its natural estrogen.
• Fenugreek may help in preventing cancer: It is an effective antioxidant. It also have anti carcinogenic properties some studies have shown that this may be due to presence of Diosgenin.
• Fenugreek also acts as a natural blood purifier and helps to prevent acne. Its also very effective in curing of oily skin.
• Fenugreek can also be used for excessive hair fall. It is believed to enhance hair growth both in men and women. Fenugreek powder mixed with curd helps in controlling your dandruff problem.
• These seeds help in lowering the risks of heart diseases.
• Fenugreek seeds help to increase production of milk in lactating mothers. The seeds contain a chemical known as Diosgenin which acts as similar to estrogen and hence promote milk production during breastfeeding.
• It is also used in the treatment of arthritis and asthma.
• Fenugreek seeds help in management of Diabetes: The powder of seeds in the diet reduces blood sugar and urine sugar with improvement in glucose tolerance and diabetic symptoms in both insulin and non-insulin dependent patients. It also lowers the levels of serum lipids such as cholesterol and triglyceride. Depending upon the severity of diabetes the quantity of fenugreek seeds to be taken varies from 25g to 50g.The Fenugreek seeds powder can be incorporated in food preparations such as vegetable curries, roti and dhal etc. Seeds can also be taken as such after overnight soaking in water.