Fenugreek is a highly utilized herb across many countries including North Africa, the Middle East, and India. It has gained notoriety due to its ability to treat a wide variety of conditions. Fenugreek has nourishing properties and is commonly given during convalescence and to encourage weight gain. Yet, it doesn't end there. Fenugreek has also been known to induce labor, lower fever, lower blood cholesterol levels, and treat gastric intestinal issues.
History & Folklore
Fenugreek has a strong history in ancient Egyptian times. Records indicate that they utilized fenugreek seeds to concoct a prescription for burns. Additionally, they used the seeds to induce child birth. Later on, the greek physician, Hippocrates, praised fenugreek as a soothing herb. Another greek physician recommended the herb as a remedy for all gynecological ailments including infection of the uterus and inflammation of the vagina and vulva.
Habitat & Cultivation
Fenugreek is an aromatic annual native to North Africa and countries bordering the Mediterranean. It thrives in open areas where it will bloom pale-yellow, pearl-like flowers, trifoliate leaves, and c-shaped pods. Today, fenugreek is widely cultivated in India. The seeds will be collected during autumn.
Uses
Convalescence & Weight Gain The seeds of fenugreek have high nutritious value; given during convalescence and to encourage weight gain, especially in anorexia.
Fever reducer Sometimes compared to quinine, fenugreek is helpful in lowering fever.
Gastrointestinal problems The soothing effect of fenugreek seeds are useful in treating gastritis and gastric ulcers.
Antidiabetic useful in lowering blood cholesterol levels
Childbirth fenugreek has been successfully used to induce labor and increase breast-milk production
External uses as a paste, fenugreek may be applied externally to treat burns, boils, abscesses, ulcers, and as a douche for excessive vaginal discharge.
Parts used
Seeds
Key Actions
Nourishing
Herbal medicine
Soothing
Anti-diabetic
Constituents
Volatile oil
Alkaloids
Saponins
Flavonoids
Mucilage
Proteins
Fixed oil
Vitamins A, B, & C, and Minerals
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 277-78.
No Remedies found containing Fenugreek
Products with Fenugreek
No reviews found for Fenugreek
Help others by leaving a review
Share your experience with this herb to help other people