Fenugreek, Dried
Latin Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum
Family: Leguminosae
Description
Fenugreek seeds have been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes and were highly values by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. The ground seeds give a maple flavour to confectioneries while the powder is used to spice curries. Fenugreek is also used to make cattle food and hay more flavourful.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Fenugreek is a wonderful medicinal plant and is very beneficial to the nervous, digestive, and respiratory systems. The crushed seeds are very useful in bronchitis and lung conditions as they help expel mucous lodged in the airways. They are used to treat stomach and digestive disorders, including ulcers and inflammations.
Fenugreek seeds are very useful when given in wasting diseases such as tuberculosis, anemia, and debility, and during convalescence as they help nourish, heal and strengthen. They are also used to lower fever and have been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels.
Fenugreek seeds help increase milk production in nursing mothers. They are also wonderful in balancing blood sugar levels and regulating insulin production.
Fenugreek was used traditionally as an aphrodiciac and it is possible as the plant contains steroidal saponins that resemble our own sex hormones. Fenugreek is a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, and is good taken in sprouted form in salads or sandwiches. Externally, a poultice is good for rheumatic pains and for boils and abscesses, especially due to its powerful drawing out abilities.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fenugreek is used as a tonic to heal kidney diseases, hernias, gastric troubles, and morning sickness. It is taken for menstrual pain and menopausal problems when associated with weak kidney Qi (energy).
Source
Seeds
Preparations
Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons of crushed seeds and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Avoid in pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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