Ayurveda Initiative For Global Health

Fenugreek or Fenugreek Greens Did you know that Fenugreek, called Menthya in Kannada, Methi in Hindi, had the dubious claim in Rome, in an old wives tale, that roasted fenugreek seeds were consumed by harem women to increase buxomness? Did you know that Fenugreek is believed to originate from India and Northern Africa, and in the Indian Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia its use is known as an aphrodisiac and a cure for digestive and respiratory conditions related to phlegm? Did you know that Czech girls wore tiny bunches of fenugreek around their necks due its quality as a good deodorant which was extremely useful when sanitary conditions were poor and baths very rare? Fenugreek, known by its Latin name Trigonella foenum-graecum, is an annual (as it germinates flowers, sets seed and dies in one season) plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Its suffix ‘foenum-gracesum’ was given as an epithet by the Romans as it was a very common Greek Plant. It was also calle...

Methi or fenugreek seeds and leaves form an important ingredient in Indian households. It is used in almost every Indian preparation be it dal, paratha or curry. But what you might not know is that methi or fenugreek is a rich reservoir of medicinal properties that imparts many health benefits. Here are 15 reasons why you should include methi in your diet more often. 1 Lowers blood cholesterol According to studies fenugreek helps to reduce cholesterol level, especially that of the low density lipoprotein (LDL). They are known to be rich source of steroidal saponins that prevent the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides. Here’s how to reduce cholesterol levels naturally. 2 Reduces risk of heart disease Due to the presence of galactomannan, fenugreek plays a key role in maintain your heart health. It also contains high amount of potassium that counters the action of sodium to help control heart rate and blood pressure. Read about yoga for healthy heart. 3 Controls blo...