Fenugreek is also known as ‘methi” in India. This incredible herb is used for its seeds, oil, and as a condiment. It’s typically grown in warm climates. It offers many wonderful health benefits. In article introduces you to fantastic fenugreek benefits, nutrition uses, and side effects. So, keep reading!
Top 11 Fenugreek Seeds Health Benefits
Fenugreek crop is native to India but is now grown world Wide! When combined with other spices & herbs, it brings about an addictively sweet flavor and profound depth to the dishes. Additionally, Fenugreek is also available in capsules, tablets, and powdered supplements. Let’s learn more about the benefits of Fenugreek seeds.
1. Aid In Diabetes Control
Fenugreek seeds can be very useful in managing and preventing diabetes. It contains fiber that helps with digestion. Additionally, it improves insulin production & sugar metabolization in the body.
Tip – For best results, take 2 tsp boiled fenugreek seeds twice a day.
2. Rich Source Of Antioxidants
Fenugreek is an excellent source of antioxidants. It is rich in vitamin A, Vitamin C, Beta carotene, etc. These antioxidant compounds protect the cells from free radical damage and improve the body’s overall immunity.
Nutrition:-
- 100g of Fenugreek has a Vitamin C content of about 3 mg.
- 100g of Fenugreek seeds provides 1% of Vitamin A.
Note – Vitamin C gets destroyed with heat; therefore, if you consume Fenugreek in vegetable form, it is best to avoid overcooking.
3. Helpful In Acidity
The Benefits of fenugreek seeds soaked in water include better gut health. If you constantly struggle with digestive issues and acidity, then Fenugreek is best for you. The mucilage in the seeds soothes gastrointestinal inflammation. This ultimately soothes acidity and heartburn.
4. Strong Anti-inflammatory Agent
This wonderful herb can be a solid anti-inflammatory agent. Compounds like 4-hydroxy isoleucine, apigenin, saponins, and alkaloids have potent anti-inflammatory actions. Consequently, regularly consuming Fenugreek can improve overall health & immune response.
5. Menstrual Cramps Relief
Fenugreek seeds benefits for women include menstrual cramps relief. In addition, this herb is loaded with potent plant compounds like flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids. These compounds have potent analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Therefore, keep fenugreek seeds handy the next time you experience menstrual discomfort.
Tip – Why not drink fenugreek tea for relieving menstrual cramps?
6. Controlling Cholesterol Levels
If you struggle with high cholesterol issues, you should give Fenugreek a fair chance! The compound steroidal saponins can reduce the triglycerides and HDL levels in the body. Therefore, reducing the overall cholesterol levels in the body.
7. Help In Healthy Weight loss.
Drinking Fenugreek for weight loss on an empty stomach is an ancient home remedy. It’s because Fenugreek improves insulin resistance and is loaded with fiber. Insulin influences metabolism, and active fiber keep you full through the day.
Tip – Drinking Boil fenugreek water on an empty stomach for best results
8. Naturally Healthy & Shiny hair!
Fenugreek seeds benefits for hair are not unknown. It is rich in iron, flavonoids, saponins, and essential protein. These compounds provide nourishment and promote hair growth. It is due to their anti-inflammatory action. Additionally, they are also helpful in preventing dandruff and split ends.
9. Increased Testosterone & Libido In Males
Regularly consuming Fenugreek can improve testosterone production in males. Consequently, this enhances sperm quality and libido. Thus, it is a wonderful remedy for erectile dysfunction, loss of sexual desire, etc.
10. Enhance Breast Milk Production In Females
Fenugreek is rich in diosgenin ( phytosteroid sapogenin). This compound can have an efficacious milk production effect in lactating mothers. Additionally, this compound may also help in inducing childbirth. Fenugreek tea or capsule is best for lactating mothers.
11. Get Acne Free, Clear Skin
There are tremendous fenugreek benefits for the skin This fantastic herb is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Additionally, plant compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action. Consequently, this fights acne helps prevent fine lines & wrinkles.
Fenugreek Nutritional Profile
Fenugreek offers countless health benefits due to its solid nutritional constituents. Let us know more about the nutritional profile of fenugreek seeds.
A 100g of Fenugreeks contains the following nutrients:-
| Nutrition | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 333 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44.1 g |
| Proteins | 26.2 g |
| Fats | 5.8 g |
| Dietary Fibre | 48.6 g |
| Sodium | 19 mg |
| Calcium | 160 mg |
| Iron | 6.5 mg |
| Phosphorous | 370 mg |
| Copper | 0.71 mg |
Fenugreek Uses
Fenugreek is a versatile herb that can be used in various ways to improve health and vitality. Now, let’s learn about some of how you can use this magical herb to give your health an extra boost!
- You can add them as a “tadka” or a flavoring agent to your curries, daals, and Vegetables
- Drink fenugreek tea up to 3 times a day for pain relief.
- One can take powdered fenugreek seeds to alleviate symptoms of diabetes.
- Soak 2 – 3 tablespoons of Fenugreek overnight & boil water. Drink it on an empty stomach for better digestion.
- Apply 2 – 3 tsp of fenugreek oil with some honey on the skin for acne-free skin.
Fenugreek Side Effects
Although this wonderfully potent herb has many health benefits, excessive consumption may cause serious health issues. Here are some fenugreek side effects you should keep in mind.
1. Allergies In Some People
Inhaling fenugreek powder may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms may include – coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, swollen eyes, Etc. Therefore, extra caution should be practiced when consuming Fenugreek in powdered form.
2. Body & Urine Odor
The active plant compound in Fenugreek provides a solid aroma to this wonderful spice. Unfortunately, excessive consumption of Fenugreek may cause body and urine odor. Thus is best to consume it in moderation.
3. Problems In Pregnant Women
The plant compound solution may cause bloating, nausea & indigestion in pregnant women. Additionally, Fenugreek induces uterine contraction, which can be harmful to heavily pregnant women.
4. Bad For Young Children
Fenugreek may cause headaches and stomach issues like diarrhea, bloating, and stomach cramps in young children. Thus, it is best to avoid giving Fenugreek to young children.
5. Low Blood Sugar
Although Fenugreek is good for diabetic people, taking Fenugreek with prescribed diabetes drugs may cause blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels. Thus, diabetic people should take extra precautions before consuming Fenugreek.
Conclusion
Fenugreek (Methi) is an herb that is integral to Indian cuisine. It is used to prepare many delicious Indian dishes. Moreover, since the age of Ayurveda, it has been known for its potent medicinal properties. Some of the health benefits of Fenugreek include: – Improved skin & hair health, healthy weight loss, lowered cholesterol, etc. Regrettably, excessive consumption may cause health issues like headaches, nausea, vomiting, etc. Thus, it is best to consume it in moderation.
