Fenugreek Seed Benefits and Side Effects
Fenugreek or “Trigonella foenum-graecum,” is an herb that dates back to ancient times. In Egypt, it has been used back in 1500 B.C. The herb is characterized by toothed leaves of a grayish-green color, and light yellow to whitish flowers. Fenugreek seeds contain vitamin C, protein, potassium, niacin and a compound called “diosgenin,” that has similarities to estrogen. Additionally, Fenugreek has other active ingredients including lysine, alkaloids, and L-trytophan, together with steroidal saponins.
A lot of these constituents have an effect on the process that the digestive system is able to convert carbohydrates to blood glucose, as well as how the body is able to secrete and make use of insulin. Saponins help in reducing glucose absorption coming from nutrients that have been digested by the body. The seeds of Fenugreek have a high content of fiber as well, which slows down the absorption of the carbohydrates coming from glucose following the consumption of food.
Fenugreek seeds may be taken as a kind of tea, which has been customarily used for the treatment of menstrual cramps and various digestive problems. With the traditional type of Chinese medicine, Fenugreek is also used to treat problems that affect the kidney and pains caused by arthritis as well. Folk medicine employs this herb for treating inflammation and boils. Because Fenugreek seeds possess a rich and sweet taste, they are used on maple flavorings too.
At present, modern herbalists typically recommend Fenugreek Seed for high levels of cholesterol as well as diabetes. In spite of the fact that there have been limited clinical trials on the medicinal benefits of Fenugreek for humans, animal and laboratory studies support the capability of the herb in lowering cholesterol levels and blood sugar.
How Fenugreek Seeds are Beneficial for Health
Fenugreek has several medicinal properties that are able to provide numerous health benefits. The Fenugreek seeds when prepared as tea can help to reduce fever. When the seeds are moistened, they take on a mucilaginous texture that is capable of dissolving sticky substances such as mucus. For people suffering from any type of respiratory infection like bronchitis, influenza, sinusitis, and even suspected pneumonia, the tea made from Fenugreek seeds help in allowing the body to sweat and get rid of toxins in the process, which in turn can reduce the period of development of the fever.
Because of its diosgenin content, Fenugreek helps in lessening certain effects of menopause, such as hot flashes or mood swings. The herb has also been known to be able to increase one’s libido. Fenugreek seeds have been used for a long time in treating certain reproductive and hormonal disorders, facilitate breast enlargement, and reduce the problem of menstrual pain. People suffering from sore throats or acid reflux have reported experiencing relief by taking Fenugreek. More recent research has shown that the use of Fenugreek is very helpful in reducing the levels of both cholesterol and blood glucose. It may actually be effective in treating diabetes (type 1 and 2). Studies are now being conducted on the benefits that the herb can offer for cardiovascular disorders.
How To Use Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek tea is prepared by adding a tablespoon of the seeds to a cupful of boiling-hot water. It is recommended by Fenugreektea.org that the mixture must be allowed to steep for around 45 minutes in order to obtain the complete benefits of the Fenugreek seeds. After this, one may proceed to strain the tea and allow it to cool before drinking after taking meals in order to help in the digestive process.
Although it is considered safe, one side effect may be experiencing a mild form of diarrhea or gas, which will usually resolve itself after the seeds or the tea, has been taken for a couple of days. Fenugreek may also be purchased in capsule and powder form, or as seeds at Indian or Pakistani stores. They are also available in convenient teabags. Allergic reactions are very rare. Nevertheless, pregnant women are not supposed to take Fenugreek as it can result in uterine contractions and induce labor. It is always best to consult a doctor prior to taking Fenugreek, especially for people who are taking certain prescription medications.
So get some Fenugreek Seed today and start experiencing the benefits!
March 2nd, 2010 at 9:36 am
It has been said \"if people knew,about the benefits of fenugreek it would be purchased its weight like in gold.\"said by the English scientist Kleber, \"if you put all the medicines hangs in the balance and put the fenugreek at the other side of the tipped the balance.