Common Kitchen Herb and Its Medicinal Use-Fenugreek!!!!

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), also called Methi is a crop plant grown as a potherb and for the spice made from its seeds. The plant has antiarthritic property that leads to an important medicinal use of the plant in rheumatic disorders and spondylosis. Fenugreek is widely used in treating diabetes as it has quality to reduce the sugar level of the blood. Fenugreek contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, and loosens & removes excess mucus and phlegm

Fenugreek seeds help in reducing medh-dhatu (fatty tissue) which in turn helps in reducing weight. The leaves of fenugreek in cooked form help in indigestion and relieve flatulence. In post fever convalescence and in dyspepsia (hampered digestion by any reason) they help in restoring digestive system. To some extent they help in improving functions of liver and this is the reason a soup of fenugreek with few other edible herbs is given in conditions like kamala ( a type of Jaundice).

The herb is rich in vitamins and minerals. Leaves and seeds contain calcium, phosphorus, few vitamins from B-complex group in addition to vitamin C. It is also rich source of iron. Both leaves and seeds should be included in normal diet of family, especially diet of growing kids, pregnant ladies, puberty reaching girls and elder members of family because they have haematinic (i.e. blood formation) value.

Fenugreek has mild laxative property which also helps cleaning ama (toxins) chocked in body systems thus helping restoration from illness. A paste prepared from fenugreek and few other substances helps soothing irritation of skin and in addition reduce swelling of the part.

Soutikshastra (Ayurvedic gynecology and midwifery) has recommended use of fenugreek in promoting lactation in breast feeding mothers. Fenugreek helps in improving digestive tract functions and should be regularly used as a cleansing agent. It further says, fenugreek helps in cleaning ama (toxins) and clogged mucous in respiratory and digestive systems. Fenugreek is also useful in healing of different ulcers in digestive tract. In chronic problems like ulcerative colitis etc., fenugreek is claimed to give protective coating to digestive tract thus helping in giving relief. It has also shown promising results in controlling diabetes mellitus. One teaspoonful of fenugreek seeds should be soaked in water for whole night and this water should be taken empty stomach in the morning for controlling blood sugar.

In short fenugreek has cleansing properties. It helps in balancing our diet because its bitter juice is equally important constituent of diet. It also helps in reduction of weight. Fenugreek increases iron levels in pregnancy and improves lactation after delivery. Leaves are also rich source of vitamins and minerals.