Fenugreek, also known as fenugreek or saddlebags, is a medicinal plant whose seeds have digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, and can thus be useful in the treatment of gastritis and for the control of cholesterol levels.
The scientific name for fenugreek is Trigonella foenum-graecum and can be found in the health food store, street markets or supplement stores in the form of powder, seed or capsule. The price of fenugreek varies according to the place of purchase, quantity and the state it is in (whether in powder, seed or capsule), and can be between R $ 3 and R $ 130.00.
What is Fenugreek for?
Fenugreek has laxative, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, so it can be used in several situations, such as:
- Decrease and control blood cholesterol and glucose levels; Control anemia; Treat gastritis; Decrease inflammations; Treat cavities and pharyngitis; Improve bowel function; Relieve menopausal symptoms; Decrease menstrual cramps; Stimulate the production of testosterone; Increase energy; Reduce body fat.
In addition to these applications, fenugreek can be used to help treat scalp problems such as dandruff, hair loss and baldness, in addition to promoting hydration and accelerating healthy hair growth. See other tips to make your hair grow faster.
How to use Fenugreek
The parts used in fenugreek are the seeds, where the medicinal properties of this plant are normally found. The seeds can be used ground and diluted in milk, in Infusion or cooked to make tea, in capsules, found in health food stores, and in compressed applications with crushed and heated fenugreek seed.
- Fenugreek tea for compresses, gargles and vaginal washes: Use 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds and 1 cup of water. Boil the seeds in the water for 10 minutes. Then strain and use the tea in compresses on the scalp to treat dandruff and baldness, gargling to treat hoarseness or vaginal washes. Fenugreek tea: Use 1 cup of cold water over two teaspoons, let it sit for 3 hours, then boil the ingredients, strain and drink while it is warm, 3 times a day to treat constipation and relief of menopausal symptoms. Compress with fenugreek seeds for furuncle: Use 110 g of fenugreek seeds with water or vinegar. Beat in a blender until a paste is obtained and bring to a boil. Then spread the pulp while still hot on a cloth and apply over the inflammation site until it cools, repeating the procedure 3 to 4 times a day.
Possible side effects
Excessive consumption of fenugreek can cause gas, swollen belly and diarrhea, as well as skin irritation when used by people allergic to this plant, so it is important to have guidance from a herbalist on the best way to use this plant without there are adverse effects.
Fenugreek is contraindicated for pregnant women as it can induce labor, women who are breastfeeding and diabetic people dependent on insulin.
