Fenugreek, clover like herb, is native to Mediterranean region and extensively used in Indian cooking. It’s seed smell like maple syrup, but has a distinctive bitter taste. Apart from being a flavoring agent It’s extracts are also used in soaps and cosmetics.
Fenugreek is a wonder medicine due to it’s active alkaloid called trigonelline that reduces blood sugar level and hence used in treating diabetes. Fenugreek also acts as a Glactogogue that increases milk secretion and hence often recommended for lactating mothers. Foods containing fenugreek seeds have also found to reduce menstrual cramps, correct poor menstrual flow and promote regular cycles.
Common forms of Fenugreek
Capsule, Tea, Tincture, Seeds, Fresh leaves
Fenugreek is commonly used for:
Treating digestive problems including constipation, loss of appetite and gastritis
Seed: 1-2gram orally three times a day Tea: 500mg seed/150ml water Capsules: 610 milligram capsule three times a day
Fenugreek Side-effects and Warnings
Common side-effects: Diarrhea, Bleeding, Hypoglycemia . Not so common side-effects: Allergic reactions. Pregnant or Nursing Mothers: Consumption of fenugreek should be avoided as it contains oxytocin and acts as a uterine stimulant which could cause contractions and preterm labor. Children: Not Known.
Chinmayi is a Nutritionist turned Marketer, with Masters in both Marketing and Nutrition. Her focus is to combine her knowledge to understand and evangelize Ayurveda.
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