Getting Healthy with Fenugreek
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, fenugreek is a clover-like herb native to the Mediterranean, southern Europe, and western Asia. (NCCIM). Fenugreek, which is available as a spice or supplement in most health food stores, may provide some important health advantages for the heart, brain, and hair.
Fenugreek contains anti-inflammatory qualities that can be beneficial for chronically high levels of inflammation that can lead to heart attacks. These compounds are known as flavonoids, and they have antioxidant capabilities, which means they assist the body combat free radical damage (chemical changes in the cells). This damage may raise the likelihood of developing cancer and other disorders. The fenugreek herb is also high in iron, which benefits heart health. Iron transports oxygen to the muscles and brain, and because fenugreek is high in iron and anti-inflammatory characteristics, including it in your diet helps lower your chance of developing heart disease.
When considering brain food, don’t forget to include fenugreek. The brain might function and interpret information differently as you become older. You may begin to forget things that were formerly easy to recall, as if adulting wasn’t difficult enough, but studies have shown that fenugreek can minimize cognitive loss. In one study, Alzheimer’s disease patients were divided into two groups, one given fenugreek pills and the other a placebo. Before and after the intervention, the group was assessed for memory, mood, and other markers. Over the course of four months, the first group experienced considerable improvements in memory and mood. According to the study, patients experienced promising and favorable results after taking a fenugreek supplement.
Fenugreek is a versatile plant, not only in terms of how it can be taken, but also in terms of its health advantages. According to web md, preliminary study suggests that fenugreek seeds help treat mild to moderate hair loss in both men and women. There are numerous advantages to utilizing fenugreek for hair care. One study discovered that phytoestrogen from the fenugreek plant helps to reduce hair loss and enhance hair growth rate.(3).
As a reminder, take ownership of your health by discussing any complementary health approaches you utilize with your health care providers. You can make well-informed decisions as a team.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine. Fenugreek.
- Foroumandi E, Javan R, Moayed L, Fahimi H, Kheirabadi F, Neamatshahi M, Shogofteh F, Zarghi A. The effects of fenugreek seed extract supplementation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2023 Jan;37(1):285-294. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7612. Epub 2022 Oct 5. PMID: 36199177.
- International Journal of Current Research Vol. 5, Issue, 11, pp. 3453-3460, November 2013