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Greenchedy > HERBS > A Complete Cheat Sheet For Fenugreek Benefits
A Complete Cheat Sheet For Fenugreek Benefits
November 3, 2012 | By herbaliving in HERBS

Fenugreek benefits
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): The first recorded use of fenugreek is
described on an ancient Egyptian papyrus dated to 1500 B.C. Fenugreek has three
culinary uses: as an herb (dried or fresh leaves), as a spice (seeds), and as a vegetable
(fresh leaves, sprouts, and microgreens). This herb is also commonly known as birds
foot, Greek hayseed, trigonella, bockshornsame etc. This hardy annual is native to
Europe and Asia but is cultivated all over the world. The name came from the Latin word
for Greek hay due to its looking very much like clover, a common hay. Even though the
Greeks brought its name, the plant was brought into cultivation in the Near East first in
and around the area of Iraq & Egypt. There is proof of this in the archeological remains of
charred & desiccated seed in the digs of that area spanning back 6,000 years ago. It is
not yet certain which wild strain of the genus Trigonella gave rise to the domesticated
fenugreek but it is believed that it was brought into cultivation in the Near East. Major
fenugreek-producing countries are Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Argentina, Egypt,

France, Spain, Turkey, Morocco and China. Fenugreek is one of the oldest recorded
medicinal herbs, highly esteemed by both east and west, and has been regarded as a
treatment for just about every ailment known to man.
About the Plant
Fenugreek is a small annual leguminous herb belonging to the family of fabaceae; of the
genus: Trigonella. The plant has small round leaves and is cultivated worldwide as a
semi-arid crop and is a common ingredient in dishes from Pakistan and the Indian
Subcontinent. Seeds are strongly aromatic and flavorful. The plant grows up to about 1-2
feet in height with light green color tri-foliate leaves and white flowers. It bears long,
slender, yellow-brown pods containing about 10-20 golden-yellow color seeds. Its seeds
are small in size, hard, and resemble tiny, multi-faceted stones. Raw seeds have maple
flavor and bitter taste, however their taste becomes more acceptable once gently dryroasted under light heat.
Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of the polysaccharide galactomannan. They are also
a source of saponins such as diosgenin (which is a compound that has properties similar
to estrogen), yamogenin, gitogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens. Other bioactive
constituents of fenugreek include mucilage, volatile oils, and alkaloids such as choline
and trigonelline.Fenugreek not only possesses a range of Vitamins like A, B1, B2, B3, B5,
B6, B15, B17, C, D, E, H, choline, folic acid, inositol but almost all essential minerals like
calcium, chromium, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, silicon, sodium, sulphur and zinc. Besides this, the herb is 30-36%
protein with all essential amino acids. Other active constituents in fenugreek are
alkaloids, lysine and L-tryptophan.
Most of the benefits of fenugreek are due to the presence of saponins and fiber in it. The
seeds are very good source of soluble dietary fiber. Soaking the seeds in water makes
their outer coat soft and mucilaginous. Its seeds contain a gumming substance called
mucilage. Mixed with water, mucilage expands and becomes a gelatinous soother for
irritated tissues.100 g of seeds provide 24.6 g or over 65% of dietary fiber. Fenugreek is
also used for herbal healing.
Health Benefits of Fenugreek
Fenugreek For Type II Diabetes
Fenugreek helps to alleviate type II diabetes. A few small studies have found that
fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Several human
intervention trials demonstrated that the antidiabetic effects of fenugreek seeds
ameliorate most metabolic symptoms associated with type-1 and type-2 diabetes in both
humans and relevant animal models by reducing serum glucose and improving glucose
tolerance. Studies have shown that participants with type 2 diabetes had significantly
lower blood sugar levels after eating fenugreek. Therefore, a recommended home
remedy for treating Type 2 diabetes is to consume 500mg of fenugreek twice daily.
Fenugreek For Type I Diabetes: According to one study, it may also help people with
Type I diabetes. Study done by Indian researchers revealed that Fenugreek added to
type I diabetic patients diet, helps drop urinary sugar level by 54 percent. Because of the
presence of the natural fiber galactomannan, fenugreek slows down the rate at which
sugar is absorbed into blood. The amino acid (4-hydroxyisoleucine) in fenugreek induces
the production of insulin and therefore, 15-20 grams of fenugreek daily is recommended
for controlling blood sugar.
Fenugreek For Balancing Cholesterol
Non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) which constitute major fiber content in the fenugreeks
include saponins, hemicelluloses, mucilage, tannin, and pectin. These compounds help
lower blood LDL-cholesterol levels by inhibiting bile salts re-absorption in the colon.
Studies have found people who took 2 ounces (56g) of fenugreek seed each day had

significantly (around 14 percent) lower cholesterol levels after 24 weeks, and had
lowered their risk of heart attack by more than 25 percent. Therefore, a recommended
remedy for lowering cholesterol is to take 2 ounces of seeds throughout the day. The
seeds can be sprinkled onto prepared food, or they can be consumed with water if they
are in capsule form.
This prized spice is an excellent source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, iron,
selenium, zinc, manganese, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of
cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure by countering action
on sodium. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for
cytochrome-oxidases enzymes. The good thing is that fenugreek doesnt lower the
beneficial high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in the blood.
Fenugreek For menstrual discomfort
Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal
symptoms and digestive problems. It lessens the effect of hot flashes and mood
fluctuations that are common symptoms of menopause and PMS. Fenugreek contains
the chemicals diosgenin and estrogenic isoflavones, which are similar to the female sex
hormone, estrogen. Loss of estrogen causes menopausal symptoms. So, eating
fenugreek helps to reduce menopausal symptoms.
Fenugreek For Easing Child Birth
It was also used for inducing childbirth. Fenugreek stimulates uterine contractions and
can be helpful to induce childbirth. However, pregnant women should only use this
remedy for inducing labor after consulting with their doctor.
Fenugreek For Lactating Women
Fenugreek seeds are thought to be a galactagogue that is often used to increase milk
supply in lactating women. Research has even shown that milk production can increase
by over 500 percent within 24 to 72 hours after consuming this herb. Although it is not
known why this happens, researchers speculate that the oil contained in fenugreek seeds
plays a role. Therefore, a recommended remedy to increase milk flow is to consume one
capsule of fenugreek seed (at least 500mg) three times a day.
Fenugreek For Sore Throat
Fenugreeks soothing mucilage helps to relieve sore throat pain and cough. A throat
gargle prepared from fenugreek seeds is a good remedy for treating sore throats. To
prepare the oral concoction, first mix 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in a liter of cool
water. Then gently simmer over low heat. Cool to a temperature you can tolerate on your
throat and gargle several times a day.
Fenugreek For Mucus Conditions
Fenugreek is a practical herb for all mucus conditions of the body, particularly the lungs,
by helping to clear congestion. It is a powerful antioxidant and it acts as a mucus solvent
and throat cleanser, which also eases the urge to cough. Even drinking the water that
seeds have been soaked in and rinsed with, helps to soften and dissolve accumulated
and hardened masses of cellular debris. Use fenugreek for head colds, influenza,
catarrh, constipation, bronchial complaints, asthma, emphysema, pneumonia, pleurisy,
tuberculosis, sore throat, laryngitis, hay fever and sinusitis.
Fenugreek For Fever
The Fenugreek herb has been known to help reduce fever when taken with lemon and
honey, since it nourishes the body during an illness. Therefore, to treat a fever, simply
consume one to two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds three times a day along with an
herbal tea (such as green tea) with a teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Some health
food stores also sell herbal Fenugreek teas, which can be used instead of the green tea.

Fenugreek For expelling toxic waste

As a diaphoretic it is able to bring on a sweat and to help detox the body. This takes
place through the pores of the skin. The pungent aroma of fenugreek may be smelt on
the skin and in under-arm perspiration. This is evidence that the herb is working well.
After using the sprouts for a while, this fenugreek body aroma, does not seem to be so
apparent, maybe, the sprouts have done a pretty good cleanse. Fenugreek helps to
expel mucus from the lungs and bowels.
Fenugreek For Lymphatic Cleansing
Fenugreek also has the reputation as a lymphatic cleansing herb. The lymphatic system
is the vacuum cleaner of the body. It has the vital role to irrigate the cells with nutrients
and to remove toxic wastes, dead cells and trapped proteins. The fluid is cleaned through
the lymph nodes, before the bodys 13 litres of filtered lymph fluid recycles again, via the
subclavian vein near the heart. A blocked lymphatic system can mean poor circulation,
fluid retention, pain, loss of energy and disease, anywhere in the body. An efficiently
working lymphatic system is essential for a strong immune system. This is a wonderful
feature of fenugreek: stimulating and fortifying the immune system.
Fenugreek For Peptic Ulcers
Fenugreek has been used for peptic ulcers and inflamed conditions of the stomach and
bowel, absorbing toxic material and eliminating it; the healing and soothing action creates
a protective coating, like a lubricant, over inflamed areas. To make a tea, use 1 teasp. of
seeds to 1 cup boiling water. People find that drinking a cup of the tea before meals can
bring relief from numerous ailments. Fenugreek has helped travellers who have
experienced abdominal griping pains and gastric upsets, when travelling in countries
where food and water have been contaminated. The slightly bitter properties of the seed
are beneficial to digestion.
Fenugreek For Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Fenugreek seeds contain a lot of mucilage, which helps sooth gastrointestinal
inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and intestine. Therefore, for an effective
remedy against heartburn or Acid Reflux, simply sprinkle 1 teaspoon of fenugreek SEED
FIBRE onto your food. Another option is to take one teaspoon of FENU FIBRE and
swallow them with water or juice before any meal. Fenugreek is great for anyone having
issues with any sort of gastrointestinal inflammation such as acid reflux. It will coat and
soothe the stomach and intestine lining.
Fenugreek For Constipation
Fenugreek is an herbal remedy for digestive problems. Fenugreek adds bulk to the stool.
So, it is helpful to treat constipation and diarrhoea and also relieves minor indigestion.
Non-starch polysaccharides increase the bulk of the food and augments bowel
movements. Altogether, NSPs assist in smooth digestion and help relieve constipation
ailments.
Fenugreek For Increased libido
A June 2011 study at the Australian Centre for Integrative Clinical and Molecular
Medicine found that men aged 25 to 52 who took a fenugreek extract twice daily for six
weeks scored 25% higher on tests gauging libido levels than those who took a placebo.
Due to its estrogen-like properties, fenugreek has been found to help increase libido.
Fenugreek For Breast Enlargement
Fenugreek is often used in many teas and other products that help balance womens
hormones and/or enlarge the breasts. Therefore, a simple home remedy for breast
enlargement is to make Fenugreek a part of your regular diet. A common suggestion is to
consume up to 3g of Fenugreek per day.

Fenugreek For Cancers

The potential protective effect of Fenugreek seeds against 7,12- DMBA-induced breast
cancer in rats has been shown. At 200 mg/kg body weight, Fenugreek seeds extract
significantly inhibited the DMBA-induced mammary hyperplasia and decreased its
incidence. Epidemiological studies also implicate apoptosis as a mechanism that might
mediate the Fenugreeks anti-breast cancer protective effects. More studies are needed
to support this health benefit-claim of fenugreek seed extract. Fenugreek possesses ant
carcinogenic potential. The steroid diosgenin in Fenugreek is colon cancer preventive.
Fenugreek For Athletic Performance
An article appearing in the December 2010 issue of the International Journal of Sport
Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism evaluated the effects of two enzymes present in
fenugreek, aromatize and 5-reductase, which modify cholesterol in the production of
testosterone. The researchers evaluated the effects of these enzymes on strength, body
composition and hormonal profiles in 30 resistance-trained men. The participants were
supplemented with either a placebo or 500 mg of fenugreek extract once a day for eight
weeks. Researchers monitored the participants maximum bench and leg press and
muscle endurance during an exercise regime conducted four days per week over the two
month period. The study found that fenugreek significantly improved performance in the
weight-lifting portions of the study, reduced body fat and increased testosterone levels in
the men.
Fenugreek For wounds
Fenugreek is used to treat wounds, inflammation and gastrointestinal ailments.
Fenugreek helps in ant oxidation. So, it prevents and repairs damages caused by free
radicals.
Fenugreek For Joint Pains
In India about 2-3g of raw fenugreek seeds are swallowed early in the morning with warm
water, before brushing the teeth and before drinking tea or coffee, where they are
supposed to have a therapeutic and healing effect on joint pains, without any side effects.
Fenugreek For Skin Inflammation
Research has shown that Fenugreek is an effective topical treatment for skin problems
such as abscesses, boils, burns, eczema, and gout. Therefore, a simple skin
inflammation remedy is the following: Take a spoonful of fenugreek and grind it into a
powder. Mix the ground powder with warm water.
Take a simple piece of clean cloth and soak it into the mixture. Apply the soaked cloth
directly onto the affected skin as a poultice.
Fenugreek In Chinese Medicine
Fenugreek seeds are used as a medicine in Traditional Chinese Medicine under the
name Hub Lu Be, where they are considered to warm and notify kidneys, disperse cold
and alleviate pain. Main indications are hernia, pain in the groin. They are used raw or
toasted. Traditional Chinese medicine also advises fenugreek for kidney patients.
Fenugreek As An appetite suppressant
The natural soluble fiber galactomannan can swell in the stomach and thus, suppress
appetite.
Other Uses Of Fenugreek
Fenugreek is frequently used in the production of flavoring for artificial maple syrups. The
taste of toasted fenugreek, like cumin, is additionally based on substituted pyridines. By
itself, fenugreek has a bitter taste. It is also rich in many vital vitamins including thiamin,

pyridoxine (vit.B-6), folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin-A and vitamin-C that are essential
nutrients for optimum health.
How to use Fenugreek
The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to form a paste that is applied to
the skin. Fenugreek is often available in capsules, seed, and powder form at many health
food stores. The seeds can also often be found at Indian/Pakistani grocery stores. You
may also be able to find packaged Fenugreek herbal tea bags.
Side Effects of Fenugreek
While Fenugreek is generally considered to be safe when used moderately, there have
been reports of a few minor side effects. Nausea is one common side effect, while other
people have reported gastrointestinal discomfort (diarrhea, bloating and/or gas).
Also, when using this herb topically on the skin, it is important to watch out for skin
irritations and rashes.
Fenugreeks use during pregnancy is not recommended, since it has the potential to
induce labor. If you are pregnant and wish to take it, you should do so only after
consultation with your doctor.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you
use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure
coordinated and safe care.
If you are currently taking any oral medications, you should always use this herb at least
2 hours before or after these drugs. This is important since Fenugreek fiber has the
potential to interfere with the absorption of oral medications due to its mucilaginous fiber,
which gives it a moist and sticky texture.
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Tags: benefits fenugreek, benefits fenugreek diabetes, fenugreek benefits, fenugreek
side effects
Category: HERBS
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If you are currently taking any oral medications, you should always use this herb at least 2
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