Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an Indian herb with many medicinal and culinary uses. Traditionally it has been used by breastfeeding women to increase milk flow and as a fever reducer. As a powder made into a paste, fenugreek works well on skin abrasions. In India it is mixed in old hay to feed cattle because it enhances the scent.

Nursing Moms

• Used by women in India to increase milk production in breastfeeding women, fenugreek has also been used to induce labor. For this reason, pregnant women should not use it.

Skin Care

• Fenugreek seeds are ground to a powder and used as a paste on skin abrasions, boils and cysts. When applied as a poultice, fenugreek will reduce inflammation and aid in healing.

Diabetes

• Fenugreek used in conjunction with insulin reduces blood sugar levels. Care should be taken as it can reduce blood sugar levels too much, creating hypoglycemia.

Digestion

• The active components in fenugreek increase appetite and aid digestion. Fenugreek is an anti-inflammatory and may slow the absorption of carbohydrates. Tea made with fenugreek, drunk several times throughout the day, relieves stomach upsets.

Colds and Flu

• Fenugreek has been used in India to reduce fever, relieve congestion and fight infection. Fenugreek is a natural expectorant and may help relieve congestion in the lungs and sinuses by helping to expel excess mucus.