Fenugreek

The first recorded use of fenugreek is described on an ancient Egyptian papyrus dated to 1500 B.C. Fenugreek seed is commonly used in cooking.

Common Names: Fenugreek, fenugreek seed

What It Fenugreek Used For?

  • Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also used for inducing childbirth.
  • Today, it is used for diabetes and loss of appetite, and to stimulate milk production in breast-feeding women. It is also applied to the skin to treat inflammation.

How Fenugreek Is Used

Kidney Dr. A wide range of uses were found for fenugreek in ancient times. Medicinally it was used for the treatment of wounds, abscesses, arthritis, bronchitis, and digestive problems. Traditional Chinese herbalists used it for kidney problems and conditions affecting the male reproductive tract. It is still used by herbalists today. Get more info on Kidney Dr. to improve functioning of the kidneys and urinary system.

Culinary:
Fenugreek was, and remains, a food and a spice commonly eaten in many parts of the world. Fenugreek is the small stony seeds from the pod of a bean-like plant. The seeds are hard, yellowish brown and angular. They are aromatic and taste bittersweet, like burnt sugar. There is a bitter aftertaste, similar to celery or lovage.

The major use of fenugreek is in curry powders. In home made powders, the amount used can be controlled, but in store bought powders it often overpowers. When fish is curried, particularly strong-tasting fish such as tuna and mackerel, fenugreek is frequently included in the spice mixture. Many chutneys and pickles incorporate fenugreek and it gives a tangy aroma to vegetables. The leaves, both fresh and dried, are used in meat curries, dhal and vegetable dishes and chutneys. The seeds are an ingredient of the Middle Eastern confection halva. Flour mixed with ground fenugreek makes a spicy bread. In India the roasted ground seeds are infused for a coffee substitute or adulterant.

Fenugreek Tea: A tea can be made by infusing teaspoon of seed with two cups of water for five minutes.

The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to form a paste that is applied to the skin.

What Science Says

fenugreek A few small studies have found that fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

There is not enough scientific evidence among scientists to support the use of fenugreek for any other health condition. Herbalists disagree.

Side Effects and Cautions

  • Possible side effects of fenugreek when taken by mouth include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Fenugreek can cause irritation when applied to the skin.
  • Given its historical use for inducing childbirth, women should use caution when taking fenugreek during pregnancy.
  • 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.

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