Fenugreek Nutrition Facts

One of the oldest medicinal plants, fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), has been studied. The scientific data has been summarised for potential health benefits such as blood glucose management in type 2 diabetics, cholesterol-lowering effect, effect on growth hormone leading to metabolic syndrome modulation, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, increase in male libido, safety, and toxicity. These benefits have been examined in terms of weight of evidence for efficacy, effective human dose, extrapolation of animal findings to people, and the safety margin at the anticipated clinical dose.

The effects of the whole seed or plant and the main active components like diosgenin, trigonelline, 4-hydroxy isoleucine, and galactomannan have been identified and summarised. The benefits of employing aqueous or alcoholic extracts rather than whole seed powder to avoid any coumarin-related potential cutaneous or anticoagulation-related side effects have been explored. Most of the benefits described here appear to have good preclinical support. Still, clinical data appear to be lacking, necessitating well-controlled clinical studies similar to those used for human medications. Overall, the effective dose for whole seed powder is far too high to be practical, but it poses no risk of dose-limiting toxicity, even after repeated dosing.

Fenugreek should be avoided during pregnancy until the safety of the developing fetus has been demonstrated via quality (GLP) embryo-fetal developmental toxicity studies in appropriate animal species. In addition, as a member of the Leguminosae family, fenugreek may be allergenic to some people, especially those who are allergic to peanuts. To reduce the clinically effective dose, further research has been proposed to employ the bioactive components alone or in combination.

Fenugreek’s Health Benefits

The most acceptable source of nourishment for your baby’s development is breast milk. However, some mothers may find it challenging to generate enough. While prescription medicines are frequently used to increase breastmilk production, research suggests that fenugreek could be a safe and natural option. Drinking herbal tea with fenugreek seeds enhanced breast milk supply, which helped newborns gain weight, according to a 14-day study of 77 new mothers. In another study, 66 moms were divided into three groups. The first was given fenugreek tea, the second was given a placebo, and the third was given nothing.

Pumped breast milk volume increased from 1.15 ounces (34 ml) in the control and placebo groups to 2.47 ounces (73 ml) in the fenugreek group. Although supplements were utilized in this research instead of fenugreek herbal tea, supplements are expected to have similar benefits. Even though this research is encouraging, you should talk to your midwife or doctor about any concerns you have concerning breastfeeding production.

Effects on testosterone levels in men

Boosting testosterone is one of the most popular reasons men take fenugreek pills, and it has been shown in specific trials to have positive benefits, including increased libido. In 8-week research, 30 college-aged males lifted weights four times per week, half taking 500 mg of fenugreek daily. Although testosterone levels in the non-supplement group fell somewhat, they rose in the fenugreek group. This group also had a 2% decrease in body fat 30 males were given 600 mg of fenugreek extract for six weeks to measure sexual function and libido changes. The majority of individuals stated that their strength and sexual function had improved.

It May Help Control Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels

It May aid in the management of diabetes and blood sugar levels. Fenugreek can help with metabolic issues like diabetes, and it appears to affect both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and boost carb tolerance in persons who do not have these illnesses. In one research, people with type 1 diabetes were given 50 grams of fenugreek seed powder at lunch and dinner. After ten days, participants had lower blood sugar levels and lower total and LDL (bad) cholesterol. People without diabetes were given fenugreek in another trial.

They saw a 13.4% fall in blood sugar levels four hours after eating. These advantages could be attributed to fenugreek’s ability to improve insulin activity. However, the research results utilizing whole fenugreek powder or seeds may be partly attributable to the high fibre content. Fenugreek’s significance in blood sugar regulation and the treatment of type 1 and 2 diabetes is supported by evidence.

Appetite control- Three studies have found a decrease in fat intake and appetite, and participants in 14-day research reduced their overall fat intake by 17%.

Cholesterol levels- Fenugreek has decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels in some studies.

Heartburn-Fenugreek was reported to lessen the symptoms of recurrent heartburn in a two-week pilot study, and its effects were similar to those of antacids.

How to Use Fenugreek?

Fenugreek is found in a variety of supplements. Because supplement formulations fluctuate, the suggested dose varies. There is no single dose that is advised. Furthermore, the dosage may differ based on the benefit sought. Most testosterone-related research used only 500 mg of fenugreek extract, although other studies have utilized 1,000–2,000 mg. Doses of 2–5 grams of whole seed appear helpful; however, this varies from trial to study.

Supplements should be taken either before or after eating. Because this herb helps stabilize blood sugar, it’s ideal for taking it with your highest-carb meal of the day. Always read the label for dosage directions. If you’re unsure, speak with your doctor.

What Effect does Fenugreek have on a Woman’s Body?

Fenugreek provides several health benefits, particularly for women, including increasing breast milk production, alleviating menstruation cramps, and increasing sex drive. According to research, fenugreek has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, raise testosterone, and increase milk production in breastfeeding moms. Fenugreek may also aid with appetite control, cholesterol reduction, and inflammation reduction, although more research is needed.

According to a study published in BMC Women’s Health, the plant fenugreek, whose fragrant seeds and leaves can be found whole or powdered in your grocer’s spice section, may help naturally improve women’s libido. Furostanolic saponins are chemicals found in them that are thought to boost testosterone synthesis. Taking fenugreek supplements has been demonstrated in several trials to enhance testosterone levels and symptoms associated with low testosterone, such as reduced libido.

Is Fenugreek Good for Skin?

Vitamin K and vitamin C in fenugreek seeds assist in reducing blemishes and dark circles on the skin. The fenugreek seeds face mask cleanses all impurities from the skin, giving it a natural glow. Soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight and grind them the following day with simple milk. Fenugreek Diosgenin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics that help treat acne while also moisturizing the skin. Make a face mask with fenugreek powder, raw milk, or curd. With regular application, the pack will diminish fine wrinkles and even out the complexion.

Fenugreek seeds can be used to generate a natural scrub. It moisturizes the skin while also protecting it from fungal infections, which can cause acne and other skin issues. Diosgenin is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound found in fenugreek. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and then grind them into a paste to produce an excellent face cleanser.

Is Fenugreek Water Healthy for your Hair?

Fenugreek water promotes hair development, increases hair volume, and prevents hair problems like dandruff and roughness. 3. Fenugreek or methi water aids in the removal of harmful toxins from the body as well as the improvement of bowel movements. Fenugreek contains lecithin, a natural emollient that deeply hydrates and improves your scalp and hair. It also provides deep nourishment to the roots, making your hair stronger. As a result, it effectively regulates hair shedding. Fenugreek seeds are high in iron and protein, both necessary for hair development.

Furthermore, fenugreek seeds are high in folic acid, vitamins A, K, and C, and minerals like potassium and calcium. As a result, this fenugreek tonic might assist in treating frizzy, damaged, dull, and dry hair. Spray it all over your head, including your scalp. For optimal effects, wrap your hair in a bun and leave it in for 4-5 hours or overnight. To achieve healthy and lustrous hair, rinse it off with cool water.

Conclusion

The annual plant fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-group L.) is native to India and North Africa, and it’s grown and eaten throughout the world. The plant’s seeds, leaves, and other parts are used in supplements, powders, tonics, teas, and popular cooking items, such as in Indian cuisine. The fenugreek plant has long been used as a natural cure for various diseases. In fact, in ancient Rome, fenugreek was given to pregnant women to relieve childbirth pains, and in traditional Chinese medicine, it was used to cure leg weakness and swelling. Fenugreek seeds and leaves have a complex flavour described as nutty, sweet, and somewhat bitter.

Many of the medicinal effects of the fenugreek plant are thought to be due to a variety of solid chemicals found in the plant. The seeds, for example, are high in saponins and coumarins, which have been linked to a variety of health advantages, including lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Fenugreek supplements often comprise concentrated extracts from fenugreek seeds or fenugreek seed powder due to the high concentration of potent chemicals in the seeds.