Have you ever wondered the tiny fenugreek seed can do for your body and mind? It may come as a surprise, but this golden-hued seed (botanically called Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a powerhouse when it comes to health and wellness.
From improving testosterone levels to managing diabetes, fenugreek or methi offers a wealth of health benefits that makes it a popular ingredient in traditional health management.
Beyond its medicinal uses, fenugreek is also a key ingredient in a variety of cuisine. It teases the taste buds with a flavour that is both bitter and sweet. It blends into numerous dishes yet diffuses its own charm. From Indian curries to Mediterranean stews and soups, the culinary industry cannot get enough of this spice for the depth and complexity it adds to any dish. Fenugreek’s seeds, leaves, and extracts are the bee’s knees when it comes to health benefits.
LEAVES: FRAGRANT, GREEN AND HEALTHY
Methi leaves can bolster immunity, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance digestion. They are also abundant in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Notably, they are an excellent source of iron, which can ward off anaemia. Methi leaves can be relished in diverse forms, ranging from salads and curries to herbal teas, allowing one to reap their wholesome benefits.
REGULATES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS
Ayurveda and other integrated medicine forms have been using fenugreek for a long time, and modern science has been studying its health benefits. With high levels of soluble fibre, iron and magnesium, fenugreek seeds can help slow down the absorption of sugar and carbs in your gut, which can lower blood sugar spikes and improve insulin sensitivity. So, if you are looking for a natural remedy that packs a serious punch, look no further than fenugreek!
One tablespoon (11 grams (g) of whole fenugreek seeds)
Calories: 35 kCal
6 g Fibre
3 g Protein
3 g Fat:
1 g Iron
Manganese: 6% of the DV
Magnesium: 5% of the DV
AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY POTION
While the anti-inflammatory properties of fenugreek have not been studied as much as its other properties, it is understood that compounds
such as saponins and flavonoids help reduce inflammation in the body. For individuals with arthritis, asthma, and other inflammatory conditions, this versatile herb can act as a food addition in their overall management method.
LACTATION AID
Multiple studies have suggested that certain compounds in fenugreek stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone involved in the production of milk in breastfeeding mothers. Fenugreek intake can be discontinued when the milk production is stimulated to the desired level, say experts.
This article was first published in the April 2023 issue of the Happiest Health magazine. To read more such stories subscribe to the magazine, please click here.
