FenugreekIntroduction Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) is one of the oldest medicinal herbs and has documented use in Ancient Egyptian history and Chinese Traditional Medicine. Fenugreek seed has been used to increase milk production since biblical times as it contains phytoestrogens, which are natural plant chemicals that mimic female hormones. Fenugreek has been clinically shown to increase a nursing mother's milk supply within 24 to 72 hours after first taking the herb. Fenugreek has an ancient history of both culinary and medicinal use. It has traditionally been used as a natural appetite stimulant, and recent research indicates a role in natural steroid production (the hormones that drive the growth process).
The name fenugreek comes from the Latin term Foenum-graecum, or Greek hay, the plant being used to scent moldy hay. The genus name, Trigonella, is derived from another Greek name denoting "three-angled," from the shape of the "crown" around the seed. Ancient Roman medicine used fenugreek as an aid to male potency. Constituents Arginine, beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol, coumarin, diosgenin, fiber, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), kaempferol, luteolin, magnesium, manganese, niacin, potassium, pyridoxine, quercetin, riboflavin, rutin, sulfur, thiamine, trigonelline, tryptophan, vitexin, vitamin C, zinc. Parts Used The fruit or "seeds," dried and used whole or ground. Typical Preparations Used in cooking. Usually encapsulated for medicinal use, since the seeds are bitter. Up to 3-1/2 ounces (100 g) of fennel seeds can be eaten in a single meal without gastrointestinal side effects, but greater amounts provide too much fiber for most people. Also taken as an extract. Summary In the nineteenth century, Arab physicians would prepare a paste of fenugreek seeds soaked in water as a food for diabetics. Research in the 1990Ís found that adding an extract equivalent to 1-3 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds to the daily diet of diabetics significantly lowered blood sugars, HbA1C, triglycerides, and total cholesterol while raising HDL ("good") cholesterol„but most North Americans, Australians, and Europeans would find the bitter taste difficult. Encapsulated forms are most easily tolerated. Poultices of fenugreek seeds are a traditional remedy for furuncles, boils, and eczema. Precautions If you wish to use fenugreek to lower blood sugars, it is better to use the powder rather than the whole seed. The powder releases more vanadium as it is digested. Avoid fenugreek if you are allergic to chickpeas, and Fenugreek should not be taken medicinally when pregnant, however moderate use in food should be fine.
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