Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek is one of the highly used medicinal plants. Fenugreek seeds are also used as a spice all over the world. It is used for managing menstrual cramps and for postmenopausal vaginal dryness. Fenugreek seeds have blood sugar lowering, lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal effects. In some cases, Fenugreek seeds might cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea, bloating and flatulence[1].
What are the synonyms of Fenugreek Seeds?
Trigonella foenum-graecum, Methi, Menthe, Mente, Uluva, Mendium, Ventaiyam, Mentulu, Medhika, Peetbeeja
What is the source of Fenugreek Seeds?
Plant Based
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds
Modern Science View
Naringenin in Fenugreek seeds might lower the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) or low-density lipoprotein, total blood cholesterol and triglycerides. Fenugreek seeds also contain steroidal saponins which slow the rate at which the liver produces cholesterol as well as prevent the body from absorbing it.
Tips:
1. Dry roast 1 cup of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Grind them into a smooth and fine powder.
4. Store it in an air-tight jar or bottle.
5. Prepare a mixture by adding 1/2 teaspoon of this powder to 1/2 glass of water and drink twice daily.
6. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results[15][16].
Tips:
1. Dry roast 1 cup of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Grind them into a smooth and fine powder.
4. Store it in an air-tight jar or bottle.
5. Prepare a mixture by adding 1/2 teaspoon of this powder to 1/2 glass of water and drink twice daily.
6. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results[15][16].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds can help lower the risk of developing diabetes. Fenugreek seeds contain galactomannan and essential amino acids. Galactomannan lowers blood sugar level and essential amino acids improve insulin level in the blood. Together, this helps in managing diabetes[1][9].
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain to separate the seeds from the water.
4. Drink this Fenugreek tea 1-2 times a day.
5. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain to separate the seeds from the water.
4. Drink this Fenugreek tea 1-2 times a day.
5. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful in constipation. Fenugreek seeds have high content of soluble fiber called mucilage. When this soluble fiber absorbs water in the intestines, it swells up and increases the bulk in the stool. This triggers contractions in the intestine and pushes the stool smoothly. Thus, consuming Fenugreek seeds along with water eases constipation.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water.
3. Cool and have this mixture (seeds along with water) on an empty stomach in the morning daily.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Or,
5. Soak 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds for 2-3 hours.
6. When the seeds swell, make a smooth paste.
7. Consume it with 1 glass of water[17].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water.
3. Cool and have this mixture (seeds along with water) on an empty stomach in the morning daily.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Or,
5. Soak 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds for 2-3 hours.
6. When the seeds swell, make a smooth paste.
7. Consume it with 1 glass of water[17].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful for weight management. Fenugreek seeds contain galactomannan which curbs your appetite and makes you feel full. This makes you less hungry as a result of which you tend to eat less. Fenugreek seed is also a rich source of soluble fibers which increases your metabolism and triggers fat burning. A study said that Fenugreek seeds have antioxidant and anti-cholesterol properties. This prevents the accumulation of fat and improves the metabolism of lipids and glucose that help in weight loss[9].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Wash and soak them in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Separate the seeds from water in the morning.
4. Chew the wet seeds on an empty stomach.
5. Repeat this daily for 1 month for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Wash and soak them in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Separate the seeds from water in the morning.
4. Chew the wet seeds on an empty stomach.
5. Repeat this daily for 1 month for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might lower the pain and discomfort associated with heartburn. A study states that Fenugreek seeds contain a soluble fiber called mucilage which coats the inner lining of the stomach and soothes gastric inflammation and reduces irritation.
Tips:
1.Take 1/2 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak them overnight in a glass of water.
3. Consume (water with seeds) on an empty stomach in the morning[14].
Tips:
1.Take 1/2 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak them overnight in a glass of water.
3. Consume (water with seeds) on an empty stomach in the morning[14].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might be useful for male infertility. Fenugreek seeds might improve sexual performance by enhancing testosterone secretion and improving sperm quality. Thus it might be effective in male infertility and other sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction[13].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Saute it in 1 tablespoon ghee for about 5 minutes.
3. Take it with a glass of milk before going to bed.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Saute it in 1 tablespoon ghee for about 5 minutes.
3. Take it with a glass of milk before going to bed.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might provide relief in case of sore throat. A study states that Fenugreek seeds contain a compound called mucilage which lowers the pain and irritation associated with a sore throat.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water till it comes to a rolling boil.
3. Simmer the flame and allow it to boil for another 15 minutes.
4. Once the water changes color (after 15 minutes), remove it from the flame and allow it to cool to a drinkable warm temperature.
5. Use this water while it is still warm to gargle.
6. Repeat it twice a day.
7. If the sore throat is severe, you can use it to gargle three times a day[19].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Boil it in 2 cups of water till it comes to a rolling boil.
3. Simmer the flame and allow it to boil for another 15 minutes.
4. Once the water changes color (after 15 minutes), remove it from the flame and allow it to cool to a drinkable warm temperature.
5. Use this water while it is still warm to gargle.
6. Repeat it twice a day.
7. If the sore throat is severe, you can use it to gargle three times a day[19].
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might reduce pain and improve mobility in patients suffering from gout due to its anti-inflammatory property[18].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak it in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Take the mixture (seeds along with water) in the morning.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Soak it in 1 cup of water overnight.
3. Take the mixture (seeds along with water) in the morning.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seed has anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and anti-anxiety properties. This helps to reduce premenstural symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, mood swings and fatigue[11].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Strain this mixture to separate the seeds from the water.
5. Drink this Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning daily for the first 3 days of the menstrual period.
6. You can add honey to remove the bitterness of this drink.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Strain this mixture to separate the seeds from the water.
5. Drink this Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning daily for the first 3 days of the menstrual period.
6. You can add honey to remove the bitterness of this drink.
How effective is Fenugreek Seeds?
Likely effective
Diabetes
Insufficient evidence
Constipation, Gout, Heartburn, High cholesterol ABC, Male infertility, Obesity, Premenstural syndrome (PMS), Sore throat
Precautions when using Fenugreek Seeds
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Due to its hot potency, a high dose of Fenugreek seeds can lead to burning sensation in the stomach.
Ayurvedic View
Fenugreek seeds should be taken in a small amount or for a short duration in patients suffering from piles or fistula.
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might slow blood clotting and may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. So it is advisable to consult your doctor while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-coagulant or anti-platelet drugs[5][12].
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might decrease the blood potassium levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood potassium levels regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with potassium-lowering drugs[12].
Patients with diabetes
Important
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds may lower blood glucose level in people with diabetes. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose level regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-diabetic drugs[12].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Dizziness
2. Diarrhea
3. Bloating
4. Gas
5. Face swelling
6. Coughing[5][12].
2. Diarrhea
3. Bloating
4. Gas
5. Face swelling
6. Coughing[5][12].
Recommended Dosage of Fenugreek Seeds
- Fenugreek Seeds Powder - ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day
- Fenugreek Seeds Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
How to use Fenugreek Seeds
1. Fenugreek Fresh Leaves
a. Chew Fenugreek leaves.
b. Take them preferably empty stomach, to get rid of gut and intestinal infections.
2. Fenugreek Seeds Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Fenugreek churna.
b. Mix it with honey and take preferably after meals, twice a day.
3. Fenugreek Seeds Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Fenugreek capsules.
b. Swallow it with water after meals twice a day.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
b. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning to relieve menstrual cramps and to manage weight[11].
a. Chew Fenugreek leaves.
b. Take them preferably empty stomach, to get rid of gut and intestinal infections.
2. Fenugreek Seeds Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Fenugreek churna.
b. Mix it with honey and take preferably after meals, twice a day.
3. Fenugreek Seeds Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Fenugreek capsules.
b. Swallow it with water after meals twice a day.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds.
b. Add them to 1 bottle of hot water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink Fenugreek water on an empty stomach in the morning to relieve menstrual cramps and to manage weight[11].
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might prevent hair fall if used regularly.
Fenugreek seed is a rich source of protein and nicotinic acid which promotes hair growth. It strengthens the hair root and prevents excessive hair fall. Hence, Fenugreek seed is considered good for preventing hair fall[6].
Tips:
1. Take 2 tablespoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Transfer it to a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to it.
4. Mix both the ingredients well and apply this paste to your hair, mostly the roots.
5. Let it dry for 30 minutes, and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
6. Repeat this twice a week.
7. Continue this process for 1-2 months for better results.
Fenugreek seed is a rich source of protein and nicotinic acid which promotes hair growth. It strengthens the hair root and prevents excessive hair fall. Hence, Fenugreek seed is considered good for preventing hair fall[6].
Tips:
1. Take 2 tablespoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Transfer it to a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to it.
4. Mix both the ingredients well and apply this paste to your hair, mostly the roots.
5. Let it dry for 30 minutes, and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
6. Repeat this twice a week.
7. Continue this process for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Fenugreek seeds might help get rid of dry and chapped lips.
Fenugreek seed is a rich source of vitamins such as vitamin B which helps manage dry and chapped lips[5].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Make a smooth paste with water.
4. Apply this paste on your lips and leave it for 15-20 minutes.
5. Wash it off with plain water.
6. Repeat this thrice a week.
7. Continue this for 1 month for better results.
Fenugreek seed is a rich source of vitamins such as vitamin B which helps manage dry and chapped lips[5].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Make a smooth paste with water.
4. Apply this paste on your lips and leave it for 15-20 minutes.
5. Wash it off with plain water.
6. Repeat this thrice a week.
7. Continue this for 1 month for better results.
How effective is Fenugreek Seeds?
Insufficient evidence
Dry and chapped lips, Hair loss
FAQs about Fenugreek Seeds benefits
Precautions when using Fenugreek Seeds
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply Fenugreek to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction[12].
Ayurvedic View
Fenugreek Seed or leaves paste should be used with rose water or honey if your skin is hypersensitive.
Recommended Dosage of Fenugreek Seeds
- Fenugreek Seeds Paste - ¼ to ½ teaspoon or as per your requirement.
- Fenugreek Seeds Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Fenugreek Seeds
1. Fenugreek-Rose Water pack
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek leaves or seed paste.
b. Mix it with rose water to form a thick paste.
c. Apply evenly over the affected area.
d. Let it stand for 5-10 mins.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy three times a week to get rid of bacterial infections.
2. Fenugreek Seed oil with Honey
a. Take 2-3 drops of Fenugreek seed oil.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 mins.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy twice a week to get rid of acne and scars
3. Fenugreek Seeds in Coconut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Fenugreek seed oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil and apply evenly on hair and scalp and keep it overnight.
c. Wash thoroughly with shampoo next morning.
d. Use this remedy once a week to get rid of hair fall.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Hair Conditioner
a. Soak 2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds in water
b. Let it sit overnight.
c. Rinse your hair with Fenugreek seeds water after application of shampoo to get rid of dandruff.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Fenugreek leaves or seed paste.
b. Mix it with rose water to form a thick paste.
c. Apply evenly over the affected area.
d. Let it stand for 5-10 mins.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy three times a week to get rid of bacterial infections.
2. Fenugreek Seed oil with Honey
a. Take 2-3 drops of Fenugreek seed oil.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 mins.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy twice a week to get rid of acne and scars
3. Fenugreek Seeds in Coconut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Fenugreek seed oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil and apply evenly on hair and scalp and keep it overnight.
c. Wash thoroughly with shampoo next morning.
d. Use this remedy once a week to get rid of hair fall.
4. Fenugreek Seeds Hair Conditioner
a. Soak 2 teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds in water
b. Let it sit overnight.
c. Rinse your hair with Fenugreek seeds water after application of shampoo to get rid of dandruff.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Since Fenugreek oil is marketed by different brands and have their own values and quantity, the price ranges from (Rs 500-1500) for 50-500 ml bottle.
Modern Science View
The best brands of Fenugreek seed oil in India include:
1. Deve Herbes Pure Fenugreek Oil
2. AOS Fenugreek seed oil
3. Rks Aroma Fenugreek Essential Oil
4. Ryaal Fenugreek Seed Oil
5. R V Essential Pure Fenugreek (Methi) Carrier Oil
1. Deve Herbes Pure Fenugreek Oil
2. AOS Fenugreek seed oil
3. Rks Aroma Fenugreek Essential Oil
4. Ryaal Fenugreek Seed Oil
5. R V Essential Pure Fenugreek (Methi) Carrier Oil
Modern Science View
Although Fenugreek seeds are safe and well tolerated, you should use it with caution. Following are the interactions of Fenugreek seeds with prescription and non-prescription drugs:
1. Fenugreek seeds might decrease the blood potassium levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood potassium levels regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with potassium-lowering drugs[12].
2. Fenugreek seeds might slow blood clotting and may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. So please consult your doctor if you are on anti-coagulant and anti-platelet drugs while taking Fenugreek seeds.[5][12].
3. Fenugreek seeds may lower blood glucose level in people with diabetes. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose level regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-diabetic drugs[12].
1. Fenugreek seeds might decrease the blood potassium levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood potassium levels regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with potassium-lowering drugs[12].
2. Fenugreek seeds might slow blood clotting and may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. So please consult your doctor if you are on anti-coagulant and anti-platelet drugs while taking Fenugreek seeds.[5][12].
3. Fenugreek seeds may lower blood glucose level in people with diabetes. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose level regularly while taking Fenugreek seeds along with anti-diabetic drugs[12].
Modern Science View
Yes, Fenugreek seeds are good for hair. Fenugreek seed is a rich source of protein and nicotinic acid which promotes hair growth. It strengthens the hair root and prevents excessive hair fall. Hence, Fenugreek seed is considered good for preventing baldness[6].
Tips:
1. Take 2 tablespoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Transfer it to a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to it.
4. Mix both the ingredients well and apply this paste to your hair, mostly the roots.
5. Let it dry for 30 minutes, and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
6. Repeat this twice a week.
7. Continue this process for 1-2 months for better results.
Tips:
1. Take 2 tablespoons of Fenugreek seeds.
2. Crush it well using a grinder.
3. Transfer it to a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to it.
4. Mix both the ingredients well and apply this paste to your hair, mostly the roots.
5. Let it dry for 30 minutes, and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
6. Repeat this twice a week.
7. Continue this process for 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Yes, Fenugreek seeds are good for skin due to its antioxidant property. It lowers the level of free radicals and slows down the aging process. As a result, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles reduces to some extent. Fenugreek seed might also be good for acne. It has anti-inflammatory property which reduces redness and swelling around acne[7][8][20].
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- Maheshwari A, Verma N, Swaroop A, et al.Efficacy of FurosapTM, a novel Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract, in enhancing testosterone level and improving sperm profile in male volunteers.Int J Med Sci.2017;14(1):58–66.
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- Belguith-Hadriche O, Bouaziz M, Jamoussi K, et al.Lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects of an ethyl acetate extract of Fenugreek seeds in high-cholesterol-fed rats.J Agric Food Chem.2010;58(4):2116-22.
- Sauvaire Y, Ribes G, Baccou JC, et al. Implication of steroid saponins and sapogenins in the hypocholesterolemic effect of Fenugreek.Lipids.1991;26:191-7.
- Duke JA.The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing.2000.
- Vyas S, Agrawal RP, Solanki P, et al.Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Trigonella foenum-graecum (seed) extract.Acta Pol Pharm. 2008;65(4):473-476.
- Yadav R, Kaushik R, Gupta D.The health benefits of Trigonella foenum-graecum: A review.IJERA.2011;1(1):32-35.
- Bae MJ, Shin HS, Choi DW, et al.Antiallergic effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. extracts on allergic skin inflammation induced by trimellitic anhydride in BALB/c mice.J Ethnopharmacol.2012;144(3):514-22.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.