Fenugreek is a plant that is found abundantly in Asia and Europe. It is a widely eaten plant, consumed in the form of leaves as well as seeds. The strong smelling, aromatic herb is a rich source of thiamine, niacin, folic acid, riboflavin, and a lot of minerals like copper, magnesium, manganese, iron, calcium, and zinc. The health benefits of fenugreek are immense. From the digestive system to hair, fenugreek has a beneficial role to play almost on all parts of the body.
Cholesterol cutter
Fenugreek has the content saponins. Saponins help the body to absorb the cholesterol from our diet in a better way. They also help in lowering the levels of LDL, the bad cholesterol. Studies in mice found that fenugreek helps to cut the cholesterol gallstones in mice.
Diabetes boon
Fenugreek has the capacity to improve the secretion of insulin in hyperglycemic conditions and also improve the sensitivity to insulin. Scientists attribute this quality of fenugreek to a special amino acid found so far in fenugreek only. Soak a spoonful of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and swallow them the first thing in the morning and watch your diabetes getting under control!
Cancer care
Fenugreek has a lot of saponins and mucilage that binds upon the mucous membrane of the colon and protects it against cancer. The seeds also contain estrogenic effects and are being explored as a possible alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Aphrodisiac for men
Fenugreek helps in sexual arousal and also in maintaining the erection longer, so say studies conducted in Australia. Fenugreek helps in improving the secretion of testosterone.
Digestive delight
Fenugreek has been a part of Indian cuisine for a long time. It finds a place in almost every second dish. The seeds are used not only for the flavor, but also due to its properties that aid in digestion. The mucilage coats the lining of the digestive tract and is effective against heartburn, acid reflux, and gastric ulcers.
Weight loss aid
Fenugreek has a high content of dietary fiber. It aids in carbohydrate metabolism, suppresses appetite, and also provides energy for short spans. All this when combined with proper exercise can be the perfect plan for weight loss.
Blood pressure control
Fenugreek is rich in copper, manganese, and other minerals. These help in regulating the blood pressure and keep it under control. The potassium found in fenugreek has a counteraction on sodium and helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
Hair care
Fenugreek seeds soaked overnight in water and ground into a paste when mixed with curd forms an excellent hair mask. Using this regularly helps reduce dandruff and hair fall. It also improves the texture of the hair and adds shine to it.
Childbirth
Fenugreek seeds have been known to aid childbirth by inducing labor pains. Nursing mothers should have fenugreek in good amounts as it is one of the best lactogenic foods. The lactogenic effect of fenugreek is due to the presence of diosgenin.
Menstrual aid
The diosgenin and isoflavonoids along with the estrogenic properties of fenugreek help greatly in dysmenorrhea. They help ease menstrual cramps and also reduce the severity of symptoms of menopause. The iron content in fenugreek is a great source of replacement of iron lost due to menses.
A note of caution during pregnancy
Note - Fenugreek is best avoided by pregnant women as it is a known cause for inducing early labor. Excessive fenugreek during pregnancy can have teratogenic effects on the baby.
