PRIMARY USES:
Blood Sugar Swings, Insulin Resistance, Diabetes, Stimulating Milk Production, Indigestion
INDICATIONS:
Fenugreek, native to Asia and Southeastern Europe, has a long history of use as both a spice and a medicine. The seeds are composed of fiber, primarily the water, soluble fiber galactomannan, proteins, lipids, steroidal saponins, alkaloids, and C-glycoside flavones. The taste and odor of Fenugreek resembles maple syrup.
Animal and human studies have shown Fenugreek reduces blood glucose levels by slowing absorption of sugars in the stomach and stimulating insulin production. Patients with mild diabetes taking Fenugreek were able to reduce or stop drug therapy due to better blood glucose control. Fenugreek fiber supplementation was found to reduce hunger,-increase satiety and the postprandial insulin response in obese subjects. It also has been shown to reduce serum cholesterol and in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Taking Fenugreek seed powder capsules reduced total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Fenugreek helps stimulate milk production in lactating women. Research has shown it can increase milk production within 24 to 72 hours of consumption. It can also stimulate uterine contractions and induce labor, therefore it is not recommended during pregnancy.
The mucilage in Fenugreek seeds helps soothe the gastrointestinal tract by coating the lining of the stomach and intestines. This makes it helpful for a variety of digestive disorders including indigestion, constipation, and gastritis (inflammation of the stomach).