Uses of Fenugreek in Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda, the oldest healing science dates to 5,000 years when people were seeking Ayurveda for longevity and to promote a healthy lifestyle.

While all the physical ailments are treated with herbal remedies in Ayurveda, fenugreek is an age old herbal medicine which was used both in beauty and in medicines. Also known as methi, this Indian herb is available both in its fresh leaf form and the dried seed form. In countries like India, one would see both the versions and they are put to use extensively in Indian recipes. The leaves and seeds of the plant are of high medicinal and nutritional value.

Rich in carbohydrates, proteins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium and minerals, it provides energy and relief from constipation, improves digestion, stimulates the functioning of liver and spleen, purifies one’s blood and works as an appetizer too.

The Science behind Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds contain a chemical called “diosgenin” which aids as a steroid in pharma industries. With its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, fenugreek comes handy in treating and relieving pain as well. In the form of a thick paste fenugreek can also treat skin injuries, rashes, wounds, boils etc.

Let us read in detail about 10 major benefits of fenugreek:

Brings down blood cholesterol

Fenugreek helps reduce cholesterol levels, especially the LDL. The seeds contain a rich source of steroidal saponins which prevent the absorption of triglycerides and cholesterol too. Soaking a handful of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and having the whole mixture on an empty stomach the next morning proves beneficial in lowering and maintain your cholesterol levels.

Bid goodbye to heart ailments

With the presence of galactomannan, fenugreek maintains your heart health too. Higher amounts of potassium in the fenugreek seeds counter the action of sodium in your blood and helps control the heart rate and blood pressure.

Controls and keeps blood sugar levels in control

The galactomannan in fenugreek seeds and the natural soluble fiber in the seeds help the diabetic patients a lot. It slows down the absorption of sugar into your blood and streamlines and regularizes the flow of insulin in your body. It is mandatory that methi is included in the diet regimen of every diabetic individual.

Improves digestion

As you read above, fenugreek seeds and leaves are rich in fiber content and in antioxidants. Owing to these factors, the harmful toxins in the body are flushed out and indigestion problems get a relief. Drinking fenugreek concoction on an empty stomach solves your digestion problems eventually.

Aids in weight loss

Soaking methi seeds overnight in water and having the mixture the next morning will introduce natural soluble fibers in your body. Fenugreek will swell and fill your tummy and negate the “hungry” feeling and will suppress your appetite too. You will easily be able to hit your weight loss goals in time.

The perfect lactogogue

Fenugreek is the most recommended lactogogue for lactating mothers. In the sense, having fenugreek seeds will aid in increasing the milk production in feeding mothers. No artificial medicines and chemicals are needed if you have fenugreek seeds. At the same time, you will also lose weight and gain back your original weight once you start weaning your toddler.

Helps in negating menstrual discomforts and pain complaints

Soaking fenugreek seeds overnight in yogurt or curd and swallowing it down the next morning on an empty stomach at least for a period of 3 months will help wade away your menstrual discomforts like pain, cramps and excessive or insufficient bleeding. It will also purify your blood in the process. The reason being, the diosgening and isoflavines in fenugreek will help relieve the discomfort during your PMS.

Bids farewell to colon cancer

As you have read above, fenugreek seeds and leaves contain steroidal saponins and mucilage that flushes away toxins from your colon and strengthens the mucus membrane too. This will help fight carcinogens and will keep colon cancer at bay through your life!

Your skin’s friend

You can use methi boiled water to wash your face and grind the seeds to make a thick paste. You can use this paste as your face pack and can easily overrule scars, pimples and acne on your skin.

Your hair’s friend too

The use of fenugreek for hair growth, clear scalp and hair health is a well-known one. You can soak and grind fenugreek seeds and add it to curd to make a good hair pack. Use this on your scalp and hair for good hair growth and to get rid of scalp infections forever.