Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek is a clover-like herb which has many potential health-benefiting properties. Its seeds and powder are used as a spice all over the world due to their slightly sweet and nutty flavor. In the Ayurveda textbook, the properties of fenugreek are described as:
मेथिका वातशमनी श्लेष्मघ्नी ज्वरनाशिनी | ततः स्वल्पगुणा बल्या वाजिनां सा तु पूजिता ||
Fenugreek helps control Vata-Kapha. It contains certain properties which can help control fever. It may also improve general weakness because of its Balya (strength providing) nature.
Fenugreek is considered very potent in improving the overall sexual health of males. It helps boost testosterone levels and increase sperm count. The seeds may also be useful in diabetes when taken daily before breakfast, as they are high in fiber which may help in controlling blood sugar levels. Fenugreek also has anti-inflammatory properties which can be beneficial in reducing pain and swelling in arthritic conditions. The seeds are also used to manage menstrual cramps and postmenopausal vaginal dryness.
Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of protein and nicotinic acid that help promote hair growth. The seeds can be grounded and mixed with coconut oil to form a paste-like consistency. The mix can then be applied to the scalp as a shampoo, two times a day. You can also apply Fenugreek seeds cream to keep the skin hydrated.
It is important to know that Fenugreek seeds may cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence[1][6][13].
मेथिका वातशमनी श्लेष्मघ्नी ज्वरनाशिनी | ततः स्वल्पगुणा बल्या वाजिनां सा तु पूजिता ||
Fenugreek helps control Vata-Kapha. It contains certain properties which can help control fever. It may also improve general weakness because of its Balya (strength providing) nature.
Fenugreek is considered very potent in improving the overall sexual health of males. It helps boost testosterone levels and increase sperm count. The seeds may also be useful in diabetes when taken daily before breakfast, as they are high in fiber which may help in controlling blood sugar levels. Fenugreek also has anti-inflammatory properties which can be beneficial in reducing pain and swelling in arthritic conditions. The seeds are also used to manage menstrual cramps and postmenopausal vaginal dryness.
Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of protein and nicotinic acid that help promote hair growth. The seeds can be grounded and mixed with coconut oil to form a paste-like consistency. The mix can then be applied to the scalp as a shampoo, two times a day. You can also apply Fenugreek seeds cream to keep the skin hydrated.
It is important to know that Fenugreek seeds may cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence[1][6][13].
What are the synonyms of Fenugreek Seeds?
Trigonella foenum-graecum, Methi, Menthe, Mente, Uluva, Mendium, Ventaiyam, Mentulu, Medhika, Peetbeeja
What is the source of Fenugreek Seeds?
Plant Based
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds can help lower the risk of developing diabetes. Fenugreek seeds contain galactomannan and essential amino acids. Galactomannan lowers blood sugar level and essential amino acids improve insulin level in the blood. Together, this helps in managing diabetes[1][9].
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain to separate the seeds from the water.
4. Drink this Fenugreek tea 1-2 times a day.
5. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain to separate the seeds from the water.
4. Drink this Fenugreek tea 1-2 times a day.
5. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful for male infertility. Fenugreek seeds might improve sexual performance by enhancing testosterone secretion and improving sperm quality. Thus it might be effective in male infertility and other sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction[13].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Saute it in 1 tablespoon ghee for about 5 minutes.
3. Take it with a glass of milk before going to bed.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Saute it in 1 tablespoon ghee for about 5 minutes.
3. Take it with a glass of milk before going to bed.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful in constipation. Fenugreek seeds have high content of soluble fiber called mucilage. When this soluble fiber absorbs water in the intestines, it swells up and increases the bulk in the stool. This triggers contractions in the intestine and pushes the stool smoothly. Thus, consuming Fenugreek seeds along with water eases constipation.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water.
3. Cool and have this mixture (seeds along with water) on an empty stomach in the morning daily.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Or,
5. Soak 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds for 2-3 hours.
6. When the seeds swell, make a smooth paste.
7. Consume it with 1 glass of water[17].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water.
3. Cool and have this mixture (seeds along with water) on an empty stomach in the morning daily.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Or,
5. Soak 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds for 2-3 hours.
6. When the seeds swell, make a smooth paste.
7. Consume it with 1 glass of water[17].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful for weight management. Fenugreek seeds contain galactomannan which curbs your appetite and makes you feel full. This makes you less hungry as a result of which you tend to eat less. Fenugreek seed is also a rich source of soluble fibers which increases your metabolism and triggers fat burning. A study said that Fenugreek seeds have antioxidant and anti-cholesterol properties. This prevents the accumulation of fat and improves the metabolism of lipids and glucose that help in weight loss[9].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Wash and soak them in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Separate the seeds from water in the morning.
4. Chew the wet seeds on an empty stomach.
5. Repeat this daily for 1 month for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Wash and soak them in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Separate the seeds from water in the morning.
4. Chew the wet seeds on an empty stomach.
5. Repeat this daily for 1 month for better results.
Modern Science View
Naringenin in Fenugreek seeds might lower the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) or low-density lipoprotein, total blood cholesterol and triglycerides. Fenugreek seeds also contain steroidal saponins which slow the rate at which the liver produces cholesterol as well as prevent the body from absorbing it.
Tips:
1. Dry roast 1 cup of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Grind them into a smooth and fine powder.
4. Store it in an air-tight jar or bottle.
5. Prepare a mixture by adding 1/2 teaspoon of this powder to 1/2 glass of water and drink twice daily.
6. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results[15][16].
Tips:
1. Dry roast 1 cup of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Grind them into a smooth and fine powder.
4. Store it in an air-tight jar or bottle.
5. Prepare a mixture by adding 1/2 teaspoon of this powder to 1/2 glass of water and drink twice daily.
6. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results[15][16].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might reduce pain and improve mobility in patients suffering from gout due to its anti-inflammatory property[18].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak it in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Take the mixture (seeds along with water) in the morning.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak it in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Take the mixture (seeds along with water) in the morning.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seed has anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and anti-anxiety properties. This helps to reduce premenstural symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, mood swings and fatigue[11].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Strain this mixture to separate the seeds from the water.
5. Drink this Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning daily for the first 3 days of the menstrual period.
6. You can add honey to remove the bitterness of this drink.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Strain this mixture to separate the seeds from the water.
5. Drink this Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning daily for the first 3 days of the menstrual period.
6. You can add honey to remove the bitterness of this drink.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might provide relief in case of sore throat. A study states that Fenugreek seeds contain a compound called mucilage which lowers the pain and irritation associated with a sore throat.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water till it comes to a rolling boil.
3. Simmer the flame and allow it to boil for another 15 minutes.
4. Once the water changes color (after 15 minutes), remove it from the flame and allow it to cool to a drinkable warm temperature.
5. Use this water while it is still warm to gargle.
6. Repeat it twice a day.
7. If the sore throat is severe, you can use it to gargle three times a day[19].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water till it comes to a rolling boil.
3. Simmer the flame and allow it to boil for another 15 minutes.
4. Once the water changes color (after 15 minutes), remove it from the flame and allow it to cool to a drinkable warm temperature.
5. Use this water while it is still warm to gargle.
6. Repeat it twice a day.
7. If the sore throat is severe, you can use it to gargle three times a day[19].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might lower the pain and discomfort associated with heartburn. A study states that Fenugreek seeds contain a soluble fiber called mucilage which coats the inner lining of the stomach and soothes gastric inflammation and reduces irritation.
Tips:
1.Take 1/2 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak them overnight in a glass of water.
3. Consume (water with seeds) on an empty stomach in the morning[14].
Tips:
1.Take 1/2 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak them overnight in a glass of water.
3. Consume (water with seeds) on an empty stomach in the morning[14].
How effective is Fenugreek Seeds?
Likely effective
Diabetes
Insufficient evidence
Constipation, Gout, Heartburn, High cholesterol, Male infertility, Obesity, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Sore throat
Precautions when using Fenugreek Seeds
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Due to its hot potency, a high dose of Fenugreek seeds can lead to burning sensation in the stomach.
Ayurvedic View
Fenugreek seeds should be taken in a small amount or for a short duration in patients suffering from piles or fistula.
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might slow blood clotting and may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. So it is advisable to consult your doctor while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-coagulant or anti-platelet drugs[5][12].
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might decrease the blood potassium levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood potassium levels regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with potassium-lowering drugs[12].
Patients with diabetes
Important
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds may lower blood glucose level in people with diabetes. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose level regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-diabetic drugs[12].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Dizziness
2. Diarrhea
3. Bloating
4. Gas
5. Face swelling
6. Coughing[5][12].
2. Diarrhea
3. Bloating
4. Gas
5. Face swelling
6. Coughing[5][12].
Recommended Dosage of Fenugreek Seeds
- Fenugreek Seeds Powder - ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day
- Fenugreek Seeds Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
How to use Fenugreek Seeds
1. Fenugreek Fresh Leaves
a. Chew Fenugreek leaves.
b. Take them preferably empty stomach, to get rid of gut and intestinal infections.
2. Fenugreek Seeds Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Fenugreek churna.
b. Mix it with honey and take preferably after meals, twice a day.
3. Fenugreek Seeds Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Fenugreek capsules.
b. Swallow it with water after meals twice a day.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
b. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning to relieve menstrual cramps and to manage weight[11].
a. Chew Fenugreek leaves.
b. Take them preferably empty stomach, to get rid of gut and intestinal infections.
2. Fenugreek Seeds Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Fenugreek churna.
b. Mix it with honey and take preferably after meals, twice a day.
3. Fenugreek Seeds Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Fenugreek capsules.
b. Swallow it with water after meals twice a day.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
b. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning to relieve menstrual cramps and to manage weight[11].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Since Fenugreek oil is marketed by different brands and have their own values and quantity, the price ranges from (Rs 500-1500) for 50-500 ml bottle.
Modern Science View
The best brands of Fenugreek seed oil in India include:
1. Deve Herbes Pure Fenugreek Oil
2. AOS Fenugreek seed oil
3. Rks Aroma Fenugreek Essential Oil
4. Ryaal Fenugreek Seed Oil
5. R V Essential Pure Fenugreek (Methi) Carrier Oil
1. Deve Herbes Pure Fenugreek Oil
2. AOS Fenugreek seed oil
3. Rks Aroma Fenugreek Essential Oil
4. Ryaal Fenugreek Seed Oil
5. R V Essential Pure Fenugreek (Methi) Carrier Oil
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.