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GrovesSite -
Herbs
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| Name: Fenugreek |
| Biological Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum
Leguminosae
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| Other Names: Greek hay, foenugreek, fenigreek, fenugreek |
| Parts Used: seeds |
| Active Compounds:
The steroidal saponins account for many of the beneficial effects of fenugreek, particularly the inhibition of cholesterol absorption and synthesis. The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which may be the main reason it can lower blood sugar levels in diabetes.
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| History:
A wide range of uses were found for fenugreek in ancient times. Medicinally it was used for the treatment of wounds, abscesses, arthritis, bronchitis, and digestive problems. Traditional Chinese herbalists used it for kidney problems and conditions affecting the male reproductive tract. Fenugreek was, and re-mains, a food and a spice commonly eaten in many parts of the world.
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| Remedies For:
Mucilaginous, emollient, febrifuge, restorative
Fenugreek is useful for:
Atherosclerosis
Constipation
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides)
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| Description:
Although originally from southeastern Europe and western Asia, fenugreek grows today in many parts of the world, including India, northern Africa, and the United States. The seeds of fenugreek contain the most potent medicinal effects of the plant.
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| Dosage:
Due to the somewhat bitter taste of fenugreek seeds, debitterized seeds or encapsulated products are preferred. The typical range of intake is 5-30 grams with each meal or 15-90 grams all at once with one meal.
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| Safety:
Use of more than 100 grams of seeds daily can cause intestinal upset and nausea. Otherwise, fenugreek is extremely safe.
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