Fenugreek for Health

Seeds of this slightly maple-tasting legume (Trigonella foenum-graecum) have a long heritage of use as a medicinal plant and culinary spice, especially in India. Gel fiber from fenugreek  resembles guar gum in chemical structure.

Traditional uses Egyptian, ayurvedic Indian, Greek, and Roman healers used it as an aphrodisiac and to remedy colds and sore throats, indigestion, and other complaints. Lydia Pinkham included fenugreek  in her famous 19th century "Vegetable Compound" nostrum for menstrual aches .

Modern perspectiveRecent studies support traditional uses for digestion ,menopausal complaints, heart disease weight control and diabetes .

Diabetes

Pre-clinical and clinical studies have documented the efficacy of the fiber-rich fraction of fenugreek seeds in the management of diabetes. In Type I and II diabetics, administration of de-fatted, fiber-rich seed significantly reduces fasting blood glucose levels and improves performance in the glucose tolerance test. Researchers have used 5-100 g daily (one-fifth to three ounces)—of de-fatted fenugreek seed powder to control blood sugar swings in diabetes in the short term.

Weight Control

Like guar gum, fenugreekcan bind dietary fats to reduce their absorption. Fenugreek fiber also contributes to a feeling of fullness that may curb excessive appetite.

Breast Enlargement

The seeds and sprouts have a centuries-old folk reputation as breast enlargers. In fact, 100 years ago the herb was a key ingredient in the original formula for Lydia Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, a popular remedy for "female troubles"--everything from menstrual pain to postmenopausal vaginal dryness. Fenugreek seeds contain a fair amount of diosgenin, a chemical compound that's often used to create semisynthetic forms of the female sex hormone estrogen. While estrogen has many effects on the body, two relate principally to breast enlargement. The hormone causes growth of breast cells and contributes to water retention. In fact, many women who take the Pill, which contains estrogen, for birth control often experience as a side effect the feeling of breast fullness caused by water retention. Plant estrogen (phytoestrogen) from sources like fenugreek does not lead to uncomfortable breast fullness. Great for breast feeding. Inceases milk.

Heart Health

Fenugreek is rich in steroidal (furostanol) saponins—notably trigoneosides and diosgenin—which appear responsible for its healthful effects on blood fat and cholesterol levels. Serum total cholesterol, LDL and VLDL (bad) cholesterol, as well as triglyceride levels, can be significantly reduced, while HDL (good) cholesterol levels remained unchanged.

Christina's Body & Fitness