Fenugreek, also known as methi, is a popular herb commonly found in the Mediterranean region of the world. However, due to its strong medicinal properties and uses in Ayurvedic medicine, it has gained popularity worldwide.Helps Control Diabetes
This herb is highly beneficial for people who have diabetes. Its hypoglycemic property plays a key role in improving glucose tolerance and lowering blood sugar levels.
Plus, the fiber in fenugreek slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and sugars.
A 2009 study published in the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research evaluated the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of fenugreek seeds in Type 2 diabetes patients.
This study suggests that 10 grams of fenugreek seeds soaked in hot water may be helpful in controlling high blood sugar.
Also, eating baked goods like bread made with fenugreek flour may help reduce insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetics, according to a 2009 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food.
Soak 1 to 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water overnight. The next morning, drink the water as well as chew the seeds on an empty stomach. Do this daily.
You can also eat baked goods made with fenugreek flour.
Improves Heart Health
Fenugreek has antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits, which help improve overall heart health. It works as a blood thinner to prevent blood clots, which can stop blood flow to the heart, lungs and brain. Fenugreek also lowers blood pressure.
In addition, it reduces the risk of atherosclerosis due to its strong modulating effect on blood lipid levels. Plus, it stabilizes blood sugar and fights obesity, two major factors that increase the risk of developing heart disease.
A 2011 study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology highlights the cardioprotective effect of fenugreek on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense system during isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats.
To improve your heart health, drink 1 to 2 cups of fenugreek seed tea daily. To make the tea:
Add 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds to 1 ½ to 2 cups of water.
Boil it for 5 minutes, then strain it.
Add a little raw honey.
Cures Constipation
Fenugreek contains a good amount of soluble fiber that absorbs water in the intestines and adds bulk to the stools. This triggers contractions and helps move stools through the intestines easily to ease constipation.
It also relieves indigestion and stomach pain. Plus, it soothes gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the linings of the stomach and intestine to treat heartburn and acid reflux.
Boil 1 cup of fenugreek leaves in sufficient water for 5 min. You don’t need to strain it. Cool the mixture, then add some honey. Consume it twice daily until you get rid of the constipation.
To maintain regularity, eat ½ tablespoon of fenugreek seed powder along with 1 glass of warm water daily before going to bed.Curbs Joint Pain
Fenugreek is particularly beneficial for treating joint pain due to arthritis. It contains a compound known as diosgenin that aids the body’s production of cortisone and other corticosteroids, which help treat arthritis pain.
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also relieve pain and inflammation. Plus, the nutrients like calcium, iron and phosphorus in fenugreek are needed for healthy bones and tissues.
Munch on 1 tablespoon of soaked fenugreek seeds daily in the morning to reduce joint pain.
Also, make a paste of fenugreek seed powder and warm water. Apply this paste on the painful areas. Allow it to dry, then rinse it off with warm water. Use this remedy twice daily until the pain is gone.