The Potential Side Effects and Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds

The Fenugreek Plant
(Trigonella foenum-graecum )
(Click on image to enlarge)

Botanical Name of Fenugreek: Trigonella foenum-graecum
Other Common Names:
Greek Hay, Greek Hay Seed, Bird's Foot, Fenigreek, Greek Clover, Methi, Foenugreek and Hu Lu Ba.

Habitat:
Fenugreek is native to the Mediterranean countries and Asia and is undoubtedly one of the oldest cultivated medicinal plants. Today Fenugreek is widely grown in Argentina, France, India, North Africa, England and the United States.
Description:
Fenugreek is an annual herb with trifoliate leaves and it can grow to be about two feet tall. It blooms white flowers tinged with violet in the early summer. The flowers develop into long brown pods which contain the Fenugreek seeds. The seeds give away strong special aroma.

Plant Parts Used:
The seeds and the leaves if they are fresh.

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Fenugreek Therapeutic Uses, Benefits and Claims

Recent scientific research has found that fenugreek can help reduce cholesterol in the blood.
It is used to treat diabetes in adults.
It can be helpful as a herbal remedy to minimize the symptoms of menopause and it is thought to be helpful for painful PMS.
Fenugreek has been used for loss of appetite and anorexia. It can improve digestion, treat halitosis and relieve diarrhea and miner stomach aches.

The Herb Fenugreek
(Trigonella foenum-graecum )

It has a reputation for enlarging breast tissue and is widely used in natural breast enhancement products. Fenugreek seeds contain compounds like diosgenin and other plant phyto-estrogens which are thought to promote breast growth in women. However there is no scientific proof that can confirm that fenugreek can enlarge breast tissue and more studies are needed.
Fenugreek seeds contain hormone precursors that can increase milk production in nursing mothers and it is widely used for insufficient lactation.
Because of the high mucilage content found in the fenugreek seeds it is considered a useful herb for diarrhea. The seeds husks absorb water resulting in bulkier stool.
It has been used through the ages to increase sexual desire both in men and women and has been used for premature ejaculation.
The seeds of Fenugreek contain choline which may be helpful for memory loss and to slow down the aging process.
Is has been used to treat bronchitis and asthma. It is also considered a good herbal remedy for sore throat and coughs.
It has been used as an herb to promote hair growth both in women and men.
Fenugreek has been used for skin irritation, such as ulcers, boils, eczema, dandruff and cellulite.

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Potential Side Effects of Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds has been known to cause allergic reaction. It is not very common but if you experience allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips or tongue then seek medical attention. Fenugreek can change both color and smell of urine but is not harmful.
Pregnant women should not take Fenugreek in any form. Because of the high fiber content of Fenugreek, it should not be used if you are on any kind of medication as it can affect the absorption of other drugs. It is always a good idea to consult health professional before start using any herbs.

Leave a Comment on Fenugreek

Please leave a comment if you have any additional information, advice, or if you want to share your experience, on the use of fenugreek.

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Name: Shri
E-mail: Private
Date posted: January 17, 2010 - 09:19 pm
Message: But our grandmoms and moms consider methi seeds good for Pregnent Women as it makes blood they say.

Name: usha mathew
E-mail: Private
Date posted: December 07, 2009 - 02:19 pm
Message: Private

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