The distinctive yellow coloured fenugreek seeds are encountered in a wide variety of Indian cuisines. Methi or fenugreek is one of the healthiest Indian spices and has three culinary uses — as a herb, as a spice and as a green leafy vegetable. The leaves are an ingredient in some Indian curries, while the seeds are used in the preparation of vegetable dishes, pickles, dals and other food delicacies.
Fenugreek nourishes the body during illness and therefore has a number of health benefits:Its seeds contain protein, Vitamin C, niacin, potassium and diosgenin.
nDue to its estrogen-like properties, methi lessens the effect of hot flashes and mood fluctuations that are common symptoms of menopause and pre-menstrual syndrome.
nIt is an aromatic herb with a taste resembling like that of licorice. It can be brewed to make mild and flavoured tea for a variety of medicinal purposes.
A throat gargle prepared from fenugreek seeds is a good remedy for treating sore throats.It is also helpful in treating arthritis, asthma and bronchitis.Its seeds improve digestion and helps maintain a healthy metabolism.It is useful in the treatment of reproductive disorders and hormonal imbalances.It contains a lot of mucilage, which helps to soothe gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and intestine.
For an effective remedy against heartburn or acid reflux, simply sprinkle one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds to your food.Two grams of raw fenugreek seeds can be swallowed early in the morning with warm water, before brushing the teeth. It is supposed to have a healing effect on joint pains, without any side effects.It is also known for its properties to help reduce fever when taken with lemon and honey.
Recent studies have also estimated that those who regularly use methi in their food have lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Methi is also known to cure constipation as it acts as a powerful expectorant, and is used as a herbal infusion to breakup respiratory congestion.Fenugreek seeds powdered and made into a paste can be used as a face pack that helps to tone the skin and cure acne. It is an ancient ayurvedic cure for dandruff too.
The leaves are beneficial to augment appetite and act as an anti-flatulent substance.
Oriental cooking also uses it as an ingredient in sauces.Fenugreek is utilised all around the world for various uses from culinary, medicinal to even fodder for animals. However, there are certain side-effects like nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort that can be associated with its consumption. Those who are allergic to methi should consult a doctor before using it, especially pregnant women.
