ABOUT
The seeds of fenugreek or Trigonella foenum-graecum, also called methi, are rich in flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, amino acids, protein, and fiber.
Fenugreek is a native of South Eastern Europe and West Asia, now cultivated in India, Argentina, Egypt and Mediterranean countries (Southern France, Morocco and Lebanon). In India it is grown extensively in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Punjab. It is a cold season crop and is fairly tolerant to frost and very low temperature. For thousands of years, fenugreek has been used in alternative and Chinese medicine to treat skin conditions and many other diseases.
Now, seeds are used in cooking, in medicine, and to hide the taste of other medicine. Fenugreek leaves are eaten in India as a vegetable. In foods, fenugreek is included as an ingredient in spice blends. It is also used as a flavouring agent in imitation maple syrup, foods, beverages, and tobacco.
In manufacturing, fenugreek extracts are used in soaps and cosmetics
NUTRITIONAL FACTS (100 G OF EDIBLE PORTION)
| Energy (kcal) | Carbohydrate (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 377.42 | 58.16 | 22.39 | 6.2 |
HEALTH BENEFITS
- Taking fenugreek seed may lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- It brings ease to the Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
- The fenugreek seed is sometimes used to increase milk supply in women who are breastfeeding.
- Fenugreek seeds are rich in antioxidants that can help fight aging largely brought on by free radical damage.
- The oil from fenugreek seeds can be used to soften skin and act as an emollient.
- One of the popular traditional uses of the seeds in India as well as China, in various streams of traditional medicine, is to fight a fever.
- The soothing properties make fenugreek seeds good for sore throats. Its analgesic properties and mucilage contribute as well.
- Fenugreek seeds help with stimulating appetite in addition to aiding digestion.
- One of the health benefits of fenugreek seeds for men is that it can help rev up your libido.
Nutritional Info
This information is per serving.
-
Calories
35 Kcal
-
Carbohydrates
6 gm
-
Protein
3 gm
-
Fat
1 gm
Things to Watch Out For
Like many seeds, there is a fair amount of protein in the fenugreek seed. While there are many other essential vitamins and minerals in fenugreek, there are side effects too.
These side effects might indicate that you are ingesting too much:
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Worsening asthma
- Perspiration
Fenugreek is a legume plant and could potentially cause issues for someone with a peanut allergy. Likewise, some medications may react with fenugreek, so check with your doctor before taking it.
Fenugreek supplements are available as a tablet or capsule that you can take daily. Some supplements contain additional ingredients. Be sure to confirm the other components will not be harmful to your specific diet.
How to UseFenugreek
Fenugreek can be found in a powder form where you can add it to things such as:
- Yogurt
- Water (hot or cold)
- Bread or other baked goods
- Tea
- Homemade pickles
The leaves of the fenugreek plant are almost impossible to find in the United States. Asian markets are sometimes known to have frozen fenugreek leaves, but even they can be difficult to find.
If you find them, adding them to soups and curries can be a great way to add another layer of flavor and nutrients to your dish.
REFERENCE
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-733/fenugreek
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