What is Fenugreek, extract
What is Fenugreek, extract and known benefits?
By Veena Deo
What is Fenugreek ? Fenugreek is also called Trigonella Foenum-Graecum a common and well-known herb in the world.
The benefits and uses of Fenugreek were first described around 1500 BC in Egyptian literature for medicinal uses. The first citation of Fenugreek as Methi in India was around 10th Century A.D. Since then the medicinal uses of Fenugreek extract started in various forms with different combinations and permutations. Fenugreek extract was originally used as analgesic, anti pyretic and in phlegm disorders and more recently in blood sugar support. It is considered as a very useful herb in Ayurveda.
As the time progresses other indications took birth according to the need and necessity such as galactogogue, lung disorders, indigestion, acid reflux disorders, urinary disorders, anti ulcer, anti diarrheal etc.,. The main useful parts are both seeds and whole herb. What is Fenugreek really good for? Here are some uses and documented benefits of Fenugreek extract.
Fenugreek based supplements video 
What is Fenugreek, documented uses?
Daily 100 gm of Fenugreek leaves will provide readily absorbable 600 mg of calcium
1-2 gm of Fenugreek seeds powder will help to reduce the raised glucose levels
Three times a week Fenugreek leaves will help to cure anemia.
Tea prepared with Fenugreek seeds will resolve common cold, allergic bronchitis, throat irritation.
Poultice prepared with Fenugreek helps to heal the wounds.
Soaked Fenugreek seeds in curd helps to resolve the gut motility disorders.
Recurrent mouth ulcers can be healed with strong Fenugreek decoction
Tooth powder prepared with cardamom, triphala, and Fenugreek helps heal chronic gingivitis.
Soaked Fenugreek seeds paste helps to reduce dandruff. (my personal experience)
Regular intake of Fenugreek powder helps to enhance the anti coagulant and blood thinning property of anti-platelets and reduces high blood cholesterol. (This is my regular common advice to blood sugar people with cardiac disorders).
Regular administration of Fenugreek leaves and seeds help to resolve many uterine problems.
Boiled Fenugreek seeds powder helps to heal skin disorders.
Regular Fenugreek seeds soaked in yogurt and coriander leaves helps to heal chronic diarrheas
In vitro and in vivo clinical studies have discovered the hypoglycemic action of Fenugreek extract among the herbs for diabetes, and the components responsible for this action.
Studies have revealed that Fenugreek benefits include reduction of blood sugar by inhibiting carbs digestion and absorption and enhancing peripheral insulin action.
In experimental studies, it has been shown that Fenugreek leaf powder may also reduce anti-oxidative stress.
What is more, studies in rats have shown that Fenugreek not only may lower blood glucose levels but also may reduce serum lipids.
So going back to the question of what is Fenugreek and why it should also be taken by women? Simple answer is it is one of the richest sources of phytoestrogens and is thus a very useful spice for women who have low estrogen levels especially in early menopause and surgical menopause cases. Fenugreek extract is one of the richest sources of selenium and magnesium, which are among the most important antioxidant micronutrients. When consumed regularly, selenium and magnesium appears to have a protective effect against cancers. There are many blood sugar supplements available out there with Fenugreek in them. Try them today.
I hope I was able to answer the age old question as to what is Fenugreek and the benefits ot its extract.
Dr. Veena Deo is an Ayurvedic Doctor in India. All the information provided above and opinions expressed above are her own and should not be construed as medical advice. This information on herbal supplements is provided for educational purposes only. For questions email to veenadeo@herbsbenefits.com
Check out also these - Libido supplements.
USA, Canada residents Fenugreek based Blood sugar supplements 
