Fenugreek is a natural source of silicon, iron, sodium, selenium, thiamine, protein, niacin, vitamin C, potassium, and diosgenin (a compound that has properties similar to estrogen). Other active constituents in fenugreek are lysine and L-tryptophan, alkaloids, as well as steroidal saponins (diosgenin, yamogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogenin).

Due to the estrogen-like properties, Fenugreek has been found to help increase libido and lessen the effect of symptoms of menopause and PMS such as hot flashes and mood fluctuations. Fenugreek has been found to promote the growth of new breast cells and increase the size and fullness of the breasts. Of all the herbs used for breast enlargement fenugreek has the highest concentrations of the effective plant compounds.

Latin Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum

Common Names: Fenugreek, Methi, Trigonella

Properties: antioxidant, carminative, demulcent, expectorant, laxative, and stomachic

Uses: Breast enhancement, increasing breast milk, improve libido, PMS, blood sugar, antioxidants, menopause

In India and China Fenugreek has also been used to treat asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, improve digestion, maintain healthy metabolism, cure skin problems (wounds, boils and rashes), cure acid reflux, treat sore throat, increase libido and male potency. The plant has also been employed against fevers, wounds swollen glands, diabetes, ulcers, and in the treatment of cancer. Fenugreek has been used to promote lactation and as an aphrodisiac. Its antioxidants slow aging and help prevent disease.

Fenugreek also has a long history of use for the treatment of reproductive disorders, to treat hormonal disorders and to reduce menstrual pain. Recent studies have shown that Fenugreek helps lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and may be an effective treatment for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Fenugreek is also being studied for its cardiovascular benefits.
Fenugreek contains an amino acid called 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which appears to increase the body's production of insulin when blood sugar levels are high. Higher insulin production may decrease the amounts of sugar. Fenugreek helps to alleviate type II diabetes.

According to one study, it may also help people with Type I diabetes. A study revealed that Fenugreek added to type I diabetic patient's diet, helps drop urinary sugar level by 54 percent. Because of the presence of the natural fiber galactomannan, fenugreek slows down the rate at which sugar is absorbed into blood.

Fenugreek adds bulk to the stool. So, it is helpful in treating constipation and diarrhea and also relieves minor indigestion. The herb is used to treat wounds, inflammation and gastrointestinal ailments. Fenugreek also possesses antioxidant properties. So, it prevents and repairs damages caused by free radicals.

Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Lower cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart attack

Significantly lower blood sugar levels and control diabetes

Help balance women's hormones and enlarge the breasts

Increase milk production in lactating women

Reduce menstrual discomfort and minimize the symptoms of menopause

Increase libido and desire for love

Release mucilage, creating a soothing effect on the digestive organs. This mucilage forms a protective coating on the lining of the stomach and intestine, reducing gastrointestinal inflammation, reflux and heartburn.

Reduce fever and relieve flu symptoms

Because of its natural estrogens, Fenugreek is effective in treating menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety and insomnia

Possess anti-carcinogenic properties and help prevent cancer

Rich in fiber and useful in treating constipation

Because it is a food substance, fenugreek may be safely consumed in moderate amounts, either added to food, or in the form of supplements. Fenugreek aid digestion as it contains a non-dissolving fiber. The fiber swells in the presence of liquid, making it a good natural laxative. Fenugreek also lowers a person's blood pressure. Some evidence suggests that fenugreek may reduce the amounts of calcium oxalate in the kidneys. Calcium oxalate often contributes to kidney stones.

Fenugreek reduces coughing, stimulates perspiration that reduces fevers, and is beneficial for treating bronchitis, allergies, and congestion. Fenugreek combats infection, reduces inflammation, and relieves congestion. It contains properties for treating lung congestion and sinus problems. It also loosens and removes excessive amounts of mucus and phlegm.

Precautions and Side Effects of Fenugreek

Fenugreek is generally considered to be safe when used moderately, however there have been reports of a few minor side-effects. Nausea is one common side effect, while other people have reported gastrointestinal discomfort.

Fenugreek use during pregnancy is not recommended, since it has the potential to induce labor. If you are currently taking any oral medications, you should always use Fenugreek at least 2 hours before or after these drugs. This is because Fenugreek fiber has the potential to interfere with the absorption of oral medications due to its mucilaginous fiber.

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