Fenugreek Seed UsesThe Benefits of FenugreekFenugreek seed uses span the gamut from flavoring food to treating wounds to increasing milk production to lowering cholesterol. This powerful herb seems to have endless health applications. Fenugreek is a member of the bean family, and is native to the eastern Mediterranean area. Ancient peoples used fenugreek to make forage more palatable to livestock. Egyptians discovered its ability to treat wounds and inflammation. Other peoples used fenugreek for fevers, muscle aches and even as a cure for impotence. Modern fenugreek seed uses are quite different. In addition to its use as imitation maple flavoring, the benefits of fenugreek may include increasing breast milk production, treating diabetes and lowering cholesterol. Fenugreek Breastfeeding Benefits The benefits of fenugreek in breastfeeding stem from the diosgenin in its seeds, a compound similar to estrogen. As such it increases milk production and stimulates breast tissue growth. Fenugreek and Diabetes Fenugreek seeds may help lower blood sugar and reduce the need for insulin. It may also improve glucose tolerance and excretion. Fenugreek and Cholesterol Some research has shown that the benefits of fenugreek may inhibit the absorption of cholesterol as well as decrease the amount of cholesterol manufactured by the liver. However, there are cholesterol lowering herbs that have undergone much more clinical testing than fenugreek, and as such are probably better choices for lowering cholesterol. Fenugreek Seed Uses - Is There a Substitute For Fenugreek? Although there are many fenugreek seed uses and benefits of fenugreek, there is very little clinical evidence supporting most of the applications. In many cases there is a better substitute for fenugreek in terms of a more extensively researched nutrients. For lowering cholesterol policosanol is certainly a more proven substitute for fenugreek, as is garlic, green tea and olive leaf. There may also be a more proven substitute for fenugreek as far as its uses for diabetes, milk production and other applications. Fenugreek Side Effects and Recommendations Fenugreek side effects are minimal and this herb is generally regarded as safe when taken in recommended dosages. Increased amounts (over 100g daily) may cause diarrhea and nausea. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should probably not take fenugreek or other herbs. As with all health supplements, always consult a physician or qualified herbal professional before taking fenugreek or any other herbal supplement. Take added precaution if you have asthma, allergies or diabetes. more than fenugreek seed uses on our medicinal herbs page
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