Fenugreek is an annual plant in the family Fabaceae, with leaves consisting of three small obovate to oblong leaflets.
It is cultivated worldwide as a semiarid crop. Its seeds and leaves are common ingredients in dishes from the Indian subcontinent.
It is one of the oldest staple remedial plants with a myriad of benefits. Nowadays, it is also grown throughout the US, North Africa, and the Mediterranean regions.
A lot of research has been done on the goodness of fenugreek and how it can positively impact human health. In this post, we will look into all of that.
Here are the 7 amazing health benefits of fenugreek below:
1. Fenugreek boosts testosterone
Fenugreek can boost testosterone levels. The hormone plays a vital role in many bodily functions in males. A study conducted on 100 male participants between the ages of 35 to 65 years showed an increase in serum testosterone levels and the sperm count.
The participants were made to add a fenugreek supplement to their diets for 12 weeks to tackle testosterone deficiency.
2. Is beneficial during breastfeeding
A study was conducted on 122 participants to review the systematic galactagogue effect of fenugreek. The study compared the result of fenugreek with another galactagogue and a placebo. It was found that ingesting fenugreek could increase breast milk production in lactating women.
3. Promotes hair growth
Fenugreek seeds are packed with various nutrients that promote hair growth. Even its leaves help in this regard. Research suggests applying the paste made from the leaves to the scalp promotes hair growth and preserves the natural hair color.
4. Treats heartburn
In a study, fenugreek products were found to reduce the severity of heartburn. Fenugreek had worked similar to an OTC antacid medication.
Fenugreek also soothes gastrointestinal inflammation by forming a shield over the intestinal lining.
5. Improves skin health
Fenugreek is a wonderful and harmless alternative to all the contemporary creams that usually contain petroleum products and other chemicals.
Fenugreek has natural oils that help in hydrating, moisturizing, and softening skin. The potassium, carotene, and vitamin C in the seeds boost skin elasticity and overall health.
6. Aids diabetes treatment
The fiber in fenugreek forms a thick and sticky gel in the intestine, which makes it harder to digest excess sugars and bad fats.
A study was conducted on two groups of people with type 2 diabetes. The group that consumed fenugreek powder twice a day saw a significant improvement in their diabetes symptoms.
7. Can relieve constipation
Fenugreek improves digestion and prevents stomach disorders. The seeds are rich in mucilage and help prevent constipation by softening the mucus membranes and improving their composition. The seeds also resist excess mucus production at the same time.