Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Health Benefits of Fenugreek

The health benefits of fenugreek (trigonella foenum-graecum) are so many that it's a great idea to consume these regularly for maintaining good health. Fenugreek is supposed to have originated in eastern Europe and Ethiopia. Fenugreek has been used since ancient times as food as well as medicine by the Egyptians and Asians. Today, it's grown around the Mediterranean, Argentina, Egypt, France, and all over India.

Fenugreek is an annual herb that grows 1-2 feet tall and has small, oval leaves, and small pods which contain the seeds. These are small, hard, and ochre yellow. Fenugreek is very easy to grow in mild climates. Sow the seeds, place in a sunny area, water regularly, and watch the herbs grow.

Fenugreek leaves (methi saag, methi, menthi koora) are a popular vegetable in India. Fenugreek seeds are an essential ingredient in curry powder and other masalas used in Indian food, and both the leaves and seeds have a pronounced aroma. The leaves and seeds have a bitter taste and hence often used in combination with other spices and vegetables.


Diabetes management: Studies show that regular intake of fenugreek seeds can keep blood sugar levels under check. These seeds are rich in dietary fibre, a major contributor to lower glucose levels. This is especially beneficial to non-insulin dependent diabetics.

Lactation: Fenugreek is an herbal galactagogue (a substance that boosts milk production). For centuries in India, fenugreek seeds have been given to lactating mothers to increase breast milk production.

Healthy heart: Regular consumption of fenugreek seeds helps lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides (fat found in the blood). Since fenugreek seeds keep cholesterol and diabetes under check, it helps lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Anti-viral properties: Fenugreek seeds can help stave off viruses that cause colds and sore throat. It also helps alleviate symptoms of both.

Anti-oxidant properties: Fenugreek seeds are loaded with antioxdiants that help fight free radicals, thus protecting cells from damage. This can even help check cancer.

Alleviates PMS and menopause symptoms: Fenugreek is claimed to help lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood fluctuations, common symptoms of menopause and PMS. Intake of fenugreek seeds also help regularise menstruation cycles.

Aids digestion: Add a handful of sprouted fenugreek to yoghurt to treat diarrhoea, gas and flatulence.

Skin and hair: A paste made of ground fenugreek and water is a common home remedy to treat pimples, burns and even eczema. Mixing fenugreek paste in coconut oil or applying as it is makes for an excellent conditioner for your hair and scalp.


In the US, fenugreek leaves and seeds are available in Indian grocery stores. The seeds are available whole, crushed, or powdered. Dried fenugreek leaves, called kasuri methi are also sold whole or powdered and are used when fresh leaves are not available or when you want to use them just for flavoring.