Fenugreek seeds are considered to be rich sources of  vitamins, minerals and phyto-nutrients (Compounds having synergistic effects working in combination with other several essential nutrients which promotes vitality.)

The basic information regarding fenugreek is given in the figure shown.

They are a great source of dietary fiber. Major content of the fiber found in them includes Non-Starch Polysaccharides (aka NSP) which has hemicellulose, sepomins, mucilage, pectin  and tannin. These vital components help in lowering blood LDL cholesterol levels by preventing the re-absorption of the bile salts in the colon. These are also bound to toxins present in the food which protects the membrane of colon mucus from cancers.

NSP tends to increase the bulk of the food we eat and augments the movement of bowel. So, altogether NSP assists in smoother digestion which helps in relieving constipation ailments.

It has also been found that the amino acid “n-hydroxy isoleucine” which is present in the fenugreek has an insulin secretion in conjugation. Fiber present in the seeds also helps in lowering the rate of glucose absorption in the body controlling the blood sugar levels. Hence these are one of the ingredients which is suggested in the diabetic diet.

Fenugreek is also an excellent source of various minerals like calcium, iron, copper, selenium, potassium,  zinc, magnesium.

Potassium is a vital component of the body that helps in controlling the heart rate and BP by countering the action of sodium. Iron on the other hand is critical for RBC production and also acts as a co-factor for cytoplasm -oxidases enzymes.

Fenugreek  also is rich in various vital vitamins that are essential nutrients for optimum health including thiamin, pyridoxine (Vit B6), folic acid , riboflavin , Vitamin A and C.

Medical Uses:-

Fenugreek is used for several digestive problems namely upset stomach,constipation, loss of appetite, and inflammation of the stomach (a.k.a. Gastritis). Also used in conditions which affects heart health for example “Arteries getting hardened” (a.k.a. atherosclerosis) and for high levels of certain fats in blood including triglycerides and cholesterol.

Seeds are also used for kidney ailments, beriberi, mouth ulcers, infection of the tissues beneath the surface of the skin(cellulitis), boils, bronchitis, tuberculosis, chronic coughs,baldness, cancer and lowering blood glucose levels with diabetic people.

Fenugreek is used as a Poultice not very frequently though. For this purpose it is wrapped in a cloth, warmed and then directly applied on the skin to treat local pain or swelling (inflammation).