Health benefits of Fenugreek
2. Fenugreek (methi) has been used as both a food and a medicine in many different cultures, but especially in Asia and the Mediterranean region. The medicinal value of its seeds is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as well as in Greek and Latin pharmacopoeia.
3. In ancient Egypt, methiwas used to ease childbirth and to increase milk flow, and modern Egyptian women are still using it today to relieve menstrual cramps, as well as making hilbatea out of it to ease other kinds of abdominal pain. The Chinese call it hu lu ba, and also use it for treating abdominal pain.
4. The leaves of methiare highly alkaline, and rich in iron, calcium, sulphur, chlorine, and vitamins A and C.
5. Indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, dysentery, peptic ulcers and colic are all complaints that may be relieved with the use of methi. In addition, people who suffer from biliousness or a sluggish liver may derive benefit.
7. For external use, such as in the treatment of burns or boils, a poultice made from the leaves can be applied.
8. The seeds or the leaves can be eaten to soothe internal inflammation or swelling.
9. To relieve a sore throat, a strong methi brew can be prepared by simmering two tablespoons of the seeds in a quart of cold water for a half hour. After allowing it to cool, strain it and use the entire quantity as a gargle.
10. Fenugreek seeds have hypoglycaemic properties and can be used in the management of diabetes. The fenugreek diet significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and improved the glucose tolerance test.
