Fenugreek Seeds in Modern Society.

¶ … fenugreek seeds in modern society. Fenugreek seeds, a centuries old herbal remedy, have a variety of uses both as a spice and herbal remedy. Its wide availability and relative low cost make it an attractive alternative to more traditional medications but there are some side effects that are the source of some concern. Due to its not being regulated by most government agencies, all users must be careful to use it in moderation.

Although not popularly known, the fenugreek seed has been used for many years for a variety of purposes. The fenugreek seeds originate from a plant known as Trigonella foenum-graecum and have been found to be useful as both a spice and herbal remedy. It has been extensively used in both functions in cultures in India, the Middle East, Northern Africa and the Mediterranean (Acharya, 2008).

There is historical evidence that fenugreek has been grown throughout most of the world for centuries but production for commercial purposes is now centered in India and surrounding countries such as Nepal and Pakistan. Limited production is also found in Northern Africa, France and Spain.

As indicated earlier, fenugreek seeds have a variety of uses. As a spice, it is heavily identified with Indian cuisine. With its bitter taste and strong, unique aroma, food professionals use it extensively in the preparation of pickles and pastes but, as would be expected in Indian cuisine, it is an essential ingredient in certain curry powders. It is also used in specialized dishes in Greek and Italian cuisine as well.

It is as a herbal remedy that fenugreek seeds have enjoyed their most popularity. Chemically, fenugreek seeds have been found to contain useable levels of protein, Vitamin C, niacin, potassium, and a substance known as diosgenin which has properties similar to estrogen. Other active ingredients include alkaloids, lysine and L-trptophan. These active ingredients explain why fenugreek seeds are used so extensively as herbal remedies.

One of the more popular uses of fenugreek seeds is as a home remedy for lowering blood sugar levels. Although extensive studies have not been conducted on fenugreek seeds and their relationship to diabetes, it is believed that one of its active ingredients, galactomannan, a natural soluble fiber, serves to slow down the digestion process which in turn slows the glucose absorption that results in stabilizing blood sugar levels. As a natural soluble fiber, fenugreek seeds also serve to impart a sensation of fullness among its users (Sharma, 1996).

Additional benefits to Type 2 diabetic sufferers from the use of fenugreek seeds can be found in their apparent ability to lower overall cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (otherwise known as "bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. How fenugreek seeds effectuate this result is unclear but advocates of its usage strongly claim that it does. Finally, fenugreek seeds apparently also lessen other diabetic symptoms such as numbness in the extremities (Gupta, 2002).

From its use as a treatment for diabetes, fenugreek seeds are also used as an aid for milk production for lactating women subsequent to delivery. Like its use in treating diabetes symptoms, how the seeds perform this function is not known but it is believed that it results from the presence of the active ingredient, diosgenin, which is believed to imitate the estrogen hormone. Other popular uses for fenugreeks seeds include use as a topical treatment for skin conditions such as abscesses, boils, burns and eczema and as treatment for heartburn and acid reflux.

As with any home remedy the use of fenugreek seeds should be done with caution (Izzo, 2009). Although its general use is considered to be safe when used as directed by the manufacturers there have been some reported side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are nausea and gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and gas. When used topically, some users have complained of skin irritations and rashes. It should be noted that some prescription drug users have warned users of fenugreek seeds that the taking of the seeds should be done at least two hours in advance of the taking of prescription dosages. This warning is generated due to the fact that fenugreek seeds can interfere with the absorption of certain types of oral medications.

Until very recently fenugreek seeds were difficult to obtain except in large cities with large Indian populations. As the product has become more popular and the use of herbal remedies, in general, have increased in popularity its availability has become more widespread. Presently, fenugreek seeds can be purchased in nearly any health food store or specialty grocery store. It is available in seed form, as a powder, or as a capsule. Its overall cost is similar to other herbal remedies.