The Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Growing up in the Carpathian mountains, I was exposed to herbal remedies since early childhood.

Ever since I was a child, I used herbs to teat myself of different ailments and I have always been fascinated by their health benefits and uses. My curiosity took me farther and I wanted to learn of how these fascinating plants are used in other continents and in other forms of medicine. Today I want to talk about Fenugreek, a plant who not many know, and want to share just a few health benefits of this healing plant and it's amazing properties.

Origin

Fenugreek is native of Southern Europe and West Asia.

Fenugreek , Nutritional value

The Fenugreek seeds contain a variety of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, Vitamin D, calcium, iron vitamin A, and cobalamin.

1tbsp (11.1 g), contains 36 calories, 2.6 g of protein and 2.7 g of dietary fiber.

The amino acid 4-hydroxyisoleucine contained in the seeds, stimulates insulin secretion.

Fenugreek also contain a substance called diogenin, similar to estrogen

Medicinal Uses:

Fenugreek has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

The Fenugreek seeds are used to treat digestive problems, loss of appetite, upset stomach, and constipation. Fenugreek is also known to strengthen the arteries, helps regulating high blood pressure, cholesterols and triglycerides. It is also known to treat kidney ailments, beriberi, mouth ulcers, bronchitis, tuberculosis, chronic cough, baldness, and cellulite.

TCM

In The Chinese traditional healing, the seeds are used to treat kidney disorders, edema, liver ailments, impotence, loss of libido, menstrual cramps, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, testicular pain and hernia.

In Ayurvedic Medicine, Fenugreek is used as an aphrodisiac for rejuvenation and as a diuretic, as well as for dyspepsia, cough, colic, bronchitis, constipation, gout, and arthritis. It is also used to reduce liver and spleen enlargement, and as a breast enhancer.

How to Use Fenugreek:

The seeds are used in form of tea as a laxative, liver detoxifier, and to relieve cough and bronchitis. A poultice made of Fenugreek can be applied directly on the skin to treat swelling of the muscle, local pain, swelling of the lymph nodes, gout, leg ulcers and eczema. The Diogenin found in the seeds is used to increase libido, and male potency and reduces hot flashes, and mood fluctuations caused by PMS and symptoms of menopause.

Home made remedy from Fenugreek

How to make: Add 1tsp of roasted Fenugreek seeds to 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 min and drink 2-3 cup per day.

A hair mask made from Fenugreek seeds powder is used to prevent hair loss and it also gives a glow to the hair.

Use only under the supervision of a holistic nutritionist. Used in moderation!

Enjoy!

Cami Onolfo

Holistic Nutritionist and Herbalist Healer