Fenugreek, a flavorful and a fragrant herb from the pea family. It is also known as methi. Fenugreek has been used as spice and for flavoring foods for ages. It is native to southern Europe, Mediterranean regions, and western Asia. Fenugreek is a super ingredient that has many useful properties.
1. Firstly, Fenugreek helps balance blood sugar levels and promotes the production of insulin. Incorporating this seed as part of a well-balanced diet for those suffering from diabetes can be helpful.
2. Fenugreek seeds also help increase hair growth and preserve natural hair color. A study conducted using men and women between the ages of 30 and 67 proved beneficial, as 83% of them reported thicker hair that was also lustrous.
3. Early research shows that 500mg of a fenugreek supplement can lower body fat. It contains fiber that keeps people feeling fuller for longer, which means eating less and losing weight. Research demonstrates that people who drank fenugreek tea were less hungry than the group that did not drink tea made with fenugreek. Additionally, it facilitates detoxification of the body leading to a healthier body.
4. It also helps treat dandruff. Paste made from fenugreek can be used as a conditioner, since it is high in mucilage content. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which makes it great for treating a flaky scalp and nourishing the hair.
5. Fenugreek can also treat acne. A paste from fenugreek leaves can prevent outbreaks of acne. The leaves contain salicylic acid that unclogs pores.
6. Fenugreek contains a natural oil that can hydrate, moisturize and soften skin. The potassium carotene and vitamin C that are in these seeds can improve skin’s elasticity.
7. Fenugreek can prevent constipation due to it’s mucilage formation and high-fiber properties. It softens the mucus membrane and improves its composition.
8. Fenugreek treats the severity of heartburn. It works similar to antacid medication.
9. Fenugreek seeds reduce total cholesterol along with bad cholesterol. It is high in steroidal saponins that disturb the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides. This depresses the production of cholesterol. Furthermore, fenugreek also increased the production of good cholesterol.
10. Last but not least, fenugreek can also be used for pain relief. Researchers think that fenugreek (the alkaloid which is found in fenugreek) , can block the sensory receptors that allow the brain to perceive pain. A 2014 study with 51 women that suffered from painful periods reported having fewer symptoms and pain after taking fenugreek seed powder capsules for the first 3 days for 2 months straight.