Fenugreek is widely used as herb (dried or fresh leaves). In addition to that it is used as spice (seeds) and vegetables (sprouts and micro greens).
Fenugreek is grown in many parts of the world but majority is consumed in India. The health benefits of fenugreek seeds have been remarkable in different diseases and ailments.
DIGESTIVE TROUBLES
Fenugreek is highly beneficial in digestive troubles like constipation and flatulence. The high content of soluble fiber aid to promote intestinal peristalsis and relieve you with all of the mentioned trouble. Bloating is at the mercy of 2 tbsps of fenugreek seed powder with water.
DYSMENORRHEA
Fenugreek has unbelievable benefits in Dysmenorrhea (difficult menses). It is considered as an emmenagogue, which helps to relieve period pain and open up obstructed blood vessels making the blood flow easy and comfortable.
BREASTFEEDING
Fenugreek is widely prescribed to breastfeeding mothers to build milk supply. Fenugreek is a galactogogue and enhances the milk supply due to the presence of active ingredient diosgenin. The magnesium and vitamin content of the milk has also been found to be improved with the daily consumption of fenugreek seeds.
CHOLESTEROL
Fenugreek effectively reduces the level of LDL cholesterol most commonly referred as the “Bad Cholesterol”. The high fibre content of fenugreek seeds scrapes of excess cholesterol from arteries and blood vessels of the body.
HEART
The presence of natural soluble fiber Galactomannan reduces the formation of clots, hence decreases the risk of developing heart diseases and stroke.
DIABETES
Studies have shown fenugreek to be helpful in reducing blood sugar levels. Fenugreek added to type1 diabetic patients helped to drop urinary sugar levels by 54%. The production of insulin is induced by the presence of the amino acid (4-hydroxyisoleucine), therefore 15-20 grams is recommended for daily intake. Fenugreek slowly releases insulin in the body rather than massive chunks, so the peaks and plunges are not a problem for a diabetic patient.
WEIGHT LOSS
The natural soluble fibre Galactomannan decreases appetite by making you feel full, thus promoting weight loss. The fibre swells up in the stomach and triggers your stomach stretch receptors which signal brain to suppress hunger.
MENOPAUSE
The presence of diosgenin and estrogenic isoflavones mimic the natural female hormone estrogen. Loss of estrogen causes menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, hunger pangs and depression. Ingesting fenugreek seeds not only reduces these symptoms but also provides nutrients whose deficiency occurs due to menopause.
WORD OF CAUTION
Excessive intake of fenugreek seeds can cause mild gastrointestinal stress like diarrhea etc. It is not recommended in pregnancy due to the strong effects on the female reproductive system like premature labor and miscarriage.