Fenugreek, also known scientifically as Trigonella foenum graecum, is a seed or legume of Mediterranean origin frequently used in Indian cuisine, although it is also considered very popular in the cuisines of other regions of the Middle East. These seeds are extracted from the plant known as Fenugreek, from which other parts such as its leaves are also used to make flours or, also, to be used as a condiment or spice.
This food, in addition to being an excellent culinary ingredient, also stands out for being an excellent natural remedy for personal care and to combat some health problems. That is why, in this article, we explain everything about the properties and benefits of fenugreek.
Nutritional composition of fenugreek
Fenugreek is a seed widely used, both in gastronomy and in phytotherapy, due to its richness in the following nutrients:
- This grain has a high content of soluble fibers, such as mucilage, and proteins, especially an amino acid called 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which contains cholesterol-regulating properties.
- It is rich in choline and B vitamins, which mainly gives the seed energy properties. It also has a great contribution of vitamin A and C.
- It has a good content of steroid saponins, a nutrient with beneficial properties for menopause.
- It is also rich in flavonoids, which stand out for their excellent antioxidant properties.
- Finally, fenugreek has various minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, selenium, iron and magnesium.
Properties and benefits of fenugreek for health
Thanks to the nutrients explained in the previous section, this seed has many health benefits thanks to its properties. Specifically, these are the properties and benefits of fenugreek:
- This legume has hypoglycemic properties that help us reduce blood sugar levels, so it is ideal for those who suffer from type I and II diabetes, always with doses controlled by a doctor.
- Its richness in amino acids 4-hydroxyisoleucine, gives it liver properties that reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increases HDL cholesterol in the blood. Consequently, it prevents cardiovascular diseases and the formation of kidney stones.
- It is also ideal for treating digestive problems, such as heartburn and digestive ulcers, as it has emollient and antisecretory properties that make this seed act as a gastric protector.
- Its richness in soluble fiber provides laxative properties, ideal for cases of constipation.
- It also has restorative properties, so it is used as a food supplement in cases of anorexia and anemia.
- This seed is used in athletes, as it is rich in protein, choline, phosphorus and flavonoids, which gives it properties that favor the development of muscle mass. It also has energetic and stimulating properties, ideal for sports practice.
- Fenugreek is ideal for women with menopause and painful periods, as it is rich in estrogenic saponins, a substance similar to female hormones. This substance also gives it stimulating properties, which are used to increase the size of the bust.
- Finally, its anti-inflammatory properties make it a good topical remedy to treat different problems such as hemorrhoids, skin conditions, cellulite and joint pains.
How to take fenugreek – daily dose
Fenugreek is a seed that can be prepared and taken in various ways. Below we explain the most used:
- Fenugreek flour: it is made through the mixture of crushed grains with water and is consumed mainly as a food condiment. The daily dose cannot exceed 25 grams per day.
- Infusion or tea of fenugreek: to take it so you can find it in any herbalist in the form of sachets of 80 grams of this seed. The daily dose is 1 to 3 infusions and it is always advisable to consult the doctor before starting to take them.
- Dried seed extract capsules: In general, capsules usually contain 2 mg of this plant. If you take fenugreek in this form, it is recommendable to take one capsule before each meal and the most appropriate dose will be 3 capsules maximum per day.
- It can also be prepared for external use, either in the form of a plaster, poultice or sitz bath.
Contraindications of fenugreek
This food may not be consumed or used in cases where there are contraindications to fenugreek, such as the following:
- People with an allergy to legumes: their consumption could generate symptoms such as rhinitis, asthma, cough, wheezing and tearing.
- Pregnant women: it should not be taken under any circumstances, since this legume is rich in estrogenic substances, which could cause a miscarriage.
- Contraceptives: if you are following a contraceptive treatment, it is not recommended, since it could interfere with its effects due to its richness in estrogenic substances.
- Some medications: it is also not recommended to consume this seed if you are taking medications such as insulin, antiplatelet or anticoagulants and oral antidiabetics.
