This common spice may support steadier blood sugar
The first traces of fenugreek's use for blood sugar date back to Egypt in 1500 BC. Since then, this herbaceous plant has been exploited in cooking and as a supplement because of its many beneficial properties. In fact, fenugreek is a legume: that's why the seeds of the plant can be used in herbal medicine and phytotherapy in the form of oil or seeds, which are rich in health-beneficial compounds, while in cooking it is the fenugreek leaves that are most widely used. Today, it remains a staple in holistic health practices worldwide with so many uses and so many formats. It can be used in the form of a tincture (of which you need about 30 drops in water), supplements in capsules and herbal tea to drink or for skin compresses and rinses.
What is fenugreek used for?
In the past, fenugreek was exploited for its properties in multiple fields of application: it was, in fact, administered to alleviate menopausal symptoms and digestive problems, to induce childbirth and even because it was believed to be an aphrodisiac. The beneficial effects of this plant come from the seeds, which, according to some studies, can help keep blood sugar under control.
What are fenugreek's properties?
- Stimulates appetite
- Has an emollient action that treats skin inflammation
- May help against flu symptoms
- Helps control blood sugar
- Prevents cardiovascular disease
- Supports against impotence
How does fenugreek affect blood sugar levels?
Fenugreek’s most studied claim is glycaemic support. The seeds are naturally rich in soluble fibre (galactomannan), which can slow carbohydrate absorption and soften post-meal glucose spikes; they also contain compounds like 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which has been studied for glucose-dependent effects on insulin release. For steadier blood sugar, take five to 10 grams of fenugreek seed powder with water, usually split with meals.
Fenugreek's benefits for poor appetite
Among the properties of fenugreek is that it stimulates appetite. In fact, the presence of the mucilage contained in the supplements helps combat lack of appetite. Ideally, take about two grams of fenugreek three times a day, just before a meal.
How to use fenugreek for the skin
Fenugreek has healing properties for the skin as well, so it can also be used in cosmetics to calm skin inflammation. The mucilages found in fenugreek seeds can be exploited in skin care because of their emollient action, which is very useful in treating skin inflammation. To take full advantage of the soothing properties of fenugreek, you can make compresses to apply to the affected areas. To do so, simply dissolve 50 grams of pulverised seeds in about 250 millilitres of warm water, using the mixture to soothe the skin.
What are the health benefits of fenugreek?
In Chinese medicine, fenugreek is used to treat hernias and impotence, while according to Indian tradition, this plant is effective in treating vomiting, fever, coughs and bronchitis. Some studies have stated fenugreek's benefits in controlling blood sugar and diabetes and preventing cardiovascular disease. Its antioxidant compounds further support overall metabolic and hormonal balance.
What are the disadvantages of fenugreek?
Despite its many benefits, taking fenugreek may have some contraindications to consider. Among the most common are abdominal bloating, cramps and diarrhea, as well as skin and whole body irritation. Although in the past it was used to induce childbirth, it is best to avoid fenugreek consumption during pregnancy.