The dried seeds of fenugreek are the edible parts. Fenugreek’s scientific term is Trigonella foenum-graecum. Fenugreek is related taxonomically to peas and is considered as an herb. Until recently, all that is known about fenugreek is connected with its use as a spice. The seeds are used whole or in product form.
When used at home the seeds are ground up. One use of ground fenugreek is in cooking curry. Just a bit of this spice could make a difference in your overall health. The active elements in fenugreek seeds are vitamin C, niacin, protein and potassium. These ingredients are healthy individually, and when combined, the effects are even better. All in all, these elements serve to help reduce bad levels of cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
Some supplements have fenugreek seeds, and in the past, people have passed these up in favor of more well-known super foods. But the popularity of fenugreek is rising in the health food industry. Using fenugreek supplements, a person can regulate his or her blood sugar. Diabetes sufferers will benefit greatly from taking these supplements. It is said that this supplement can relieve warning signs of type 2 diabetes. People with many risk factors for diabetes should take these supplements.
People working in the alternative medicine industry know the true value of fenugreek. Homeopathic medicine practitioners specializing in women’s health often vouch for fenugreek seed supplements because of their effects on hormones. Some consider that fenugreek may also help with milk production.
Antidiabetic effects of fenugreek are being evaluated. If there is a chance that this kind of plant can suppress warning signs of diabetes, then this is good for many people. Results of various scientific tests showed that serum glucose levels reduced after healing with fenugreek. Fenugreek also enhances glucose tolerance.
Fenugreek supplements are available in capsule form. Dietary supplements containing fenugreek seeds can be helpful in treating hypercholesterolemia and diabetes. Fenugreek has many nutritional benefits that should be discovered.
Some people use seed extractions rather than the entire seed. This is needed as a digestive aid. Some people boil the seeds and use the tea as a detox agent for skin issues like eczema and boils. Nutrients are abundant in the seed. Acid reflux that can cause heartburn is sometimes treated with a preparation of fenugreek seeds.
Diosgenin is the active constituent of fenugreek. This is considered a plant estrogen. But, elevated dosages may trigger hypoglycemia.