Fenugreek (also known as Greek Hay and Fenigreek), is an herb that is commonly found growing in the Mediterranean. While the seeds and leaves are primarily used as a culinary spice, it is also used to treat a variety of health problems in Egypt, Greece, Italy, and South Asia.

Fenugreek seeds have been found to contain protein, vitamin C, niacin, potassium, (which is a compound that has properties similar to estrogen). Other active constituents in fenugreek are alkaloids, lysine and L-tryptophan, as well as steroidal sapiens (dysgenic, yamogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogenin).

What are the Benefits of Fenugreek?

Due to its estrogen-like properties, fenugreek has been found to help increase male and female libido and lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood swings that are common symptoms of menopause and PMS. In India and China it has also been used to treat arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, improve digestion, maintain a healthy metabolism, increase libido and male potency, cure skin problems like boils and rashes, treat sore throat, and cure acid reflux.

Fenugreek also has a long history of use for the treatment of reproductive problems, induce labor, treat hormonal disorders, to help with breast enlargement, and to reduce painful menstrual. Recent studies have shown that Fenugreek helps lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and may be an effective treatment for type one and 2 diabetes. It is also being studied for its cardiovascular benefits.  

Uses of Fenugreek

 Home Remedy for Balancing Cholesterol

Studies have found people who took 2 ounces (56g) of fenugreek seed daily had significantly lower cholesterol levels after 24 weeks, and had lowered their risk of heart attack by more than 25 percent. The recommended remedy for lowering cholesterol is to take 2 ounces of seeds throughout the day. The seeds can be sprinkled onto prepared food, or they can be consumed in capsule form with lots of water.

Treating Diabetes and Lowering Blood Sugar Levels

Studies have shown that participants with type 2 diabetes had significantly lower blood sugar levels after eating fenugreek. The recommended home remedy for treating Type diabetes to consume 500mg of fenugreek twice daily. Natural Cure for Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Fenugreek seeds contain a lot of mucilage, which helps sooth gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and intestine. This is an effective remedy against heartburn or Acid Reflux, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds on your food. Another option is to take one teaspoon of seeds and swallow them with water or juice before any meal.

Home Remedy for Fever

The Fenugreek herb has been said to help reduce fever when taken with lemon and honey, it helps nourishes the body during an illness. Therefore, to treat a fever, simply consume one to two teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds three times a day along with an herbal tea with a teaspoon of homey and lemon juice. Some health food stores also sell herbal Fenugreek teas, which can be used instead of the green tea.

Breast Enlargement

Fenugreek is often used in many teas and other products that help balance women's hormones and/or enlarge the breasts. Therefore, a simple home remedy for breast enlargement is to make Fenugreek a part of your regular diet. A common suggestion is to consume up to 3g of Fenugreek per day.

Remedy to Ease Child Birth for Pregnant Women

Fenugreek stimulates uterine contractions and can be helpful to induce childbirth. However, pregnant women should only use this remedy for inducing labor after consulting with their doctor.

Remedy to Aid Milk Production in Lactating Women

Fenugreek has been known to increase milk production in lactating women. Research has even shown that milk production can increase by over 500 percent within 24 to 72 hours after consuming this herb. Although it is not known why this happens, researchers speculate that the oil contained in fenugreek seeds plays a role. Therefore, a recommended remedy to increase milk flow is to consume one capsule of fenugreek seed (at least 500mg) three times a day.

 What are the Side Effects of Fenugreek?

While Fenugreek is generally considered to be safe when used moderately, there have been reports of a few minor side-effects. Nausea is one common side effect, while other people have reported gastrointestinal discomfort (diarrhea and/or gas). Also, when using this herb topically on the skin, it is important to watch out for skin irritations and rashes. Fenugreek use during pregnancy is not recommended, since it has the potential to induce labor. If you are pregnant and wish to take it, you should do so only after consultation with your doctor. If you are currently taking any oral medications, you should always use this herb at least 2 hours before or after these drugs. This is important since Fenugreek fiber has the potential to interfere with the absorption of oral medications due to its mucilaginous fiber which gives it a moist and sticky texture.

Where and How to Buy Fenugreek

Fenugreek is often available in capsules, seed, and powder form at many health food stores and online stores. The seeds can also be found at Indian and Pakistani grocery stores. You may also be able to find packaged Fenugreek herbal tea bags. 

 For more information and part 2 of this article  visit www.gardeningdirections.com