In this post, we will be looking at Fenugreek uses and benefits. Fenugreek is a herb that shares the same family as soy and is used in various forms. The entire plant can be used. From fresh to dried seeds, leaves, roots, and twigs. Fenugreek is an excellent supplement and flavoring agent. While more research is necessary, there are many people who have gained some health benefits from fenugreek.
Health benefits linked to consuming Fenugreek
- Obesity
- Heart conditions
- Cancer
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Fungal, bacterial and viral infections
- Inflammation
- Using Fenugreek during pregnancy
However, using or consuming compounds that are found in fenugreek might worsen hormone-sensitive cancer types or cause uterine contractions when you are pregnant. It could also result in mild gastrointestinal symptoms, like bloating or diarrhoea.
Fenugreek uses and benefits
Fenugreek extracts are commonly found in products that include:
- Cosmetics
- Condiments
- Soaps
- Imitation maple syrup
- Teas
- Spices, like garam masala
- Nutritional value of Fenugreek
- Fenugreek is rich in vital nutrients which makes it a strong antioxidant. Some of these nutrients are:
- Vitamin A
- Biotin
- Choline
- B Vitamins
- Inositol
- Iron
- Vitamin D
- Insoluble and soluble fiber
Presently, there is not sufficient evidence that supports the theory of using fenugreek for medicinal purposes. However, some people who have been using the varying forms of fenugreek to treat a broad range of conditions.
These include:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Menopause
- Digestive issues, including gastritis, constipation, and loss of appetite
- Promoting breast milk production
- Low libido
- Arthritis
- Painful menstruation symptoms
- Breathing issues
- High blood pressure
- Ulcers
- Boils
- Low workout performance
- Muscle pain
- Open wounds
- Headaches and migraines
- Childbirth pain
6 Eye-opening Fenugreek Uses & Benefits
Only a few of the health benefits of fenugreek have been backed by scientific research. Some research suggests that fenugreek has the following health benefits:
1. Lowering the risk of diabetes
Some studies show that four compounds found in fenugreek have antidiabetic components. They assist with:
- Reducing intestinal glucose absorption in the body
- Delaying gastric emptying
- Reducing lipid-binding protein concentrations
- Boosting insulin sensitivity
2. Boosting milk flow and production
Fenugreek could assist with stimulating your milk supply and easy flow. Fenugreek has been used as a traditional Asian remedy for this for years. Twenty five women participated in a 2014 study and consumed three cups of fenugreek tea every day for two weeks. They started noticing an increase in milk supply within the first week.
3. Promoting weight loss
Fenugreek may be helpful in suppressing your appetite and elevating feelings of fullness which can prevent overeating which in turn promotes weight loss. Fenugreek extract powders contain fiber which can also make you feel fuller.
4. Reducing inflammation
The high levels of antioxidants in fenugreek makes it an excellent candidate for an anti-inflammatory agent. A 2012 study performed on mice suggests that the high level of flavonoid in the seeds can lower inflammation.
5. Lowering the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease
Fenugreek might assist with regulating your cholesterol levels and enhance blood pressure which can lower the risk of getting heart disease. The high content of dietary fiber in fenugreek seeds is not easily digested. It creates a viscous gel in your intestines which makes it harder to digest fats and sugars.
6. Providing pain relief
Fenugreek has been used for many years as a traditional pain relief medicine. Researchers believe that the alkaloids in the herb assists with blocking sensory receptors that permit the brain to perceive pain.
Fenugreek essential oil
Fenugreek oil is derived from the seeds and can be used for various health issues, including inflammatory issues, low libido, and digestive problems. This essential oil is known for boosting exercise performance, fighting acne, and stimulating milk supply in nursing moms. It has a characteristic woody and warm scent and can be diffused, added to tea, or used with a carrier oil for medicinal uses.
The oil is incredibly versatile andd can be used internally, topically, or aromatically. It blends especially well with chamomile, sandalwood and other essential oils for a soothing effect.
7 Fenugreek Uses and Benefits – When Using the Essential Oil
I am a huge fan of essential oils because they offer so many beauty and health benefits. Just remember, when you use the oils topically, you must mix it with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation and rash. Let’s look at the fantastic Fenugreek uses and benefits when you use the essential oil.
- Soothing skin – the oil can be used for soothing inflammatory problems. It calms your skin and provide relief for swelling and pain.
- For digestive relief – add a drop or two of the oil to water, tea or recipes to provide relief for digestive problems such as constipation.
- Boosting workout performance – add a drop or two to warm water or tea to assist with stamina and workout performance.
- Boosting milk supply – add a drop or two of the oil to warm water or tea to boost milk supply. But first check with your doctor before using it.
- Adding shine to your hair – add a drop or two of the oil to coconut oil and gently massage the solution into your scalp to boost moisture and reduce dandruff. Leave it in for five minutes and then rinse it out.
- As a food flavorant – add a few drops of the oil to dishes that contain spices like ginger and turmeric.
- Easing tension – Diffuse five drops of the oil and inhale it from the bottle.
Conclusion
Many of you may not have been familiar with fenugreek uses and benefits. I had no idea that this herb is used in so many products like soaps, condiments, and cosmetics. Now that I know how useful this plant is, I am definitely going to give it a try.
I am curious to try the tea to see if it will have any positive health effects that could improve my overall health. Have you used fenugreek in your household? Please feel free to leave a comment and tell me more about it.
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