An ancient herb, fenugreek is native to the Mediterranean areas of the Middle East dating back some 5,000 years or more. It was used by the Egyptians and Greeks, from whom the ancient Romans imported it initially for cattle food and named it “Greek hay.” It has long been used as a food in India and as a medicine in Ayurveda.
The scientific name for fenugreek is Trigonella foenum-graecum, and it is a member of the legume family. It is known by many common names including Bird’s Foot, fenogreco, Greek clover, Greek hay, and Hu La Ba. Because of its distinctive bittersweet and celery-like flavor, it is used as a flavoring agent in imitation maple syrup, and as a component of curry powder.
Fenugreek is a good source of protein and fiber, and it also contains vitamins A, C, B-complex, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and zinc. The fibers in fenugreek may be partially responsible for its positive effects on cholesterol levels, as well as relieving constipation, slowing glucose absorption, and coating the stomach. Its antioxidants benefit the liver and pancreas. Fenugreek contains compounds called saponins that have been shown to lower blood glucose after a meal and reduce insulin resistance. Studies show the polyphenols in fenugreek restore the liver and protect against alcohol toxicity.
Historically, fenugreek has been applied in a variety of ways, including as an appetizer, tonic herb, and aphrodisiac, and in soaps and cosmetics. Additionally, fenugreek has been consumed for dyspepsia, constipation, kidney diseases, mouth ulcers, fever, boils, and cough and applied topically to areas of local inflammation, gout, and eczema. Other possible positive effects of fenugreek are relieving heartburn, lowering triglycerides, antiviral properties and enhancing the immune system, and some studies show improvement of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Teas made from fenugreek seeds may soothe a sore throat. Cautions given for fenugreek include avoidance in pregnancy, monitoring blood sugars when used together with diabetic medications, and in people using anticoagulant medication.
In Asian traditions, fenugreek has been used medicinally for its warming properties and to support kidney yang. Persons who are classified as cold and deficient find fenugreek to be harmonizing. It has been used to dry dampness in the body, treat lumbago, impotence, abdominal pain and swelling.
Sprouts of this remarkable herb make a wonderful addition to salad dishes and are available now at the winter Santa Fe Farmers’ Market!
Mary Sjoberg, R.Ph.
(references available upon request)
