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Fenugreek

Botanical name: Trigonella foenum-graecum

Actions: Alterative, antiparasitic, aphrodisiac, aromatic, astringent, carminative, demulcent, deobstruent, detergent, detoxicant, emollient, expectorant, galactagogue, laxative, nutritive, stimulant, stomachic, tonic

Parts used : Seeds

An erect 2 to 3 foot tall annual herb with light green leaves and small white flowers. The seed pods contain 10 to 20 small, flat, yellow-brown, pungent, aromatic seeds to a pod. The seeds have a strong aroma and somewhat bitter taste, variously described as similar to celery, maple syrup, or burnt sugar.

Fenugreek is native to southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, and Western Asia. It is cultivated from western Europe to China for the aromatic seeds, and is still grown for fodder in parts of Europe and northern Africa. It is an indispensable ingredient in Indian curries.

Medical uses and benefits of Fenugreek

• Fenugreek is a great expectorant.
• It softens, loosens, and helps expel mucus (phlegm), especially from the bronchial and lung tissues.
• Helps dissolve cholesterol and other lipids.
• A great blood cleanser and antiseptic.
• Fenugreek is a medium range parasite killer.
• Has some diuretic properties.
• Excellent for diabetes (helps regulate sugar and insulin levels).

Cautions

• Very few interactions between fenugreek and herbs or supplements have been reported. Fenugreek may lower blood sugar levels. People using other herbs or supplements that may alter blood sugar levels, such as bitter melon ( Momordica charantia ), should be monitored closely by a health care professional while using fenugreek.
• Patients taking oral drugs for diabetes or using insulin should be monitored closely by a health care professional while using fenugreek. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.