Fenugreek for fitness

wellbeing

Fenugreek or methi is a plant with numerous nutritional, medicinal and cosmetic virtues. Its leaf is an aromatic herb with rich fibre, minerals and vitamins, while the seeds contain alkaloids, mucilage and a yellow pigment with volatile oils that help detoxify the entire body when taken regularly.

 The seeds and leaves can cure digestive disorders like dysentery, diarrhoea, indigestion, flatulence and peptic ulcers. The mucilage forms a protective coating over the ulcers. A simple remedy for any of these disorders, especially stomach ache, is to take a tsp of the seeds with a glass of buttermilk.

To control blood sugar levels, take a tsp of the seeds/powder with a tsp of amla powder and ¼ tsp of turmeric, in a glass of warm water, first thing in the morning.

 For sore throat, adding the seed decoction to salt gargle is a good remedy. Sipping a hot glass of fenugreek tea with honey and lime helps relieve nasal congestion.

To get rid of bad breath, make a decoction with seeds and use it as a mouth rinse.

Since the leaves have a cooling effect, a paste applied on burns and swellings, gives good relief.

To maintain a smooth, supple, wrinkle and blemish-free skin, apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves, allow to dry and then wash.

Regular application of fenugreek leaf paste on the scalp, not only keeps dandruff at bay, but also prevents premature greying and strengthens hair.

Adding the leaves in food can improve breast milk production in lactating mothers.

Fenugreek being a rich source of iron, helps cure anaemia.

Kasuri methi is the dry powder form of the leaves, which can be used in curries and pulav. It is desirable to sprout the seeds to enhance their niacin and anti-oxidant values.