Use of fenugreek for depression, good appetite, libido and beauty. The spice that will change your life: fenugreek, its health benefits and contraindications for use

The beneficial properties of fenugreek are a relevant topic for modern healers and herbalists. Now, during the brisk and almost uninterrupted trade between countries and access to information about many products, the “borders” that once separated us from the exotic have disappeared. Thanks to this, a kind of “fashion” arose for everything unusual and “overseas”, because many previously rare and outlandish herbal remedies and spices, including fenugreek, became available.

Exotic, multifaceted and mystical... bob

In their country of origin, spices can be very useful precisely because they are “familiar” to the body. But by including them in the metabolism of a person who has never used such drugs before, you can get an unexpected effect, which, unfortunately, is not always positive. Such an “intercultural barrier” in folk medicine and traditional cooking should be overcome with caution. Fenugreek – common among Asians spicy plant- may taste too spicy and aromatic, so you need to approach the development of this new product with all delicacy.

Fenugreek seeds are a bit like shelled corn kernels. In fact, this plant belongs to the legume family, and, accordingly, has pods in which “beans” ripen, which have a sharp, specific coumarin odor and are a “super concentrate” of the beneficial properties of the plant. Fenugreek “beans” taste sweet with a hint of bitterness, so it is customary to fry them - this way you can achieve the taste of burnt sugar.

This plant has about 130 varieties, widely distributed throughout the globe. Wherever fenugreek grows! But Asia Minor is considered the birthplace of this amazing spicy-aromatic plant, and here it is still preserved in its original form. Fenugreek can be an annual or perennial. As a seasoning, it can be used three times: as greens, whole and ground seeds (with or without pods). At the same time, there are different spices made from fenugreek blue and hay. Oil extracted from the fruits of this plant is also known.

Tip: Fenugreek is an unpretentious crop, so it can be grown on the plot and even on the windowsill, like salad greens, for example! A small tub is suitable for this.

Fenugreek: a small dictionary of names

If you try to give fenugreek a different name, you might get lost! Apparently, due to its popularity and ubiquity, each nation tried to give it its own unique name, which is why the names of this plant that are completely inconsonant have reached us. One thing is the same - many of its varieties are used as a valuable fodder plant, which is very popular with domestic animals.

In this regard, the names “camel grass”, “blue goat trefoil”, “fenugreek”, “Greek hay” are found. The word "fenugreek" (or "fenugrik", from the Latin Trigonella foénum-graécum) is translated as "goat's horn". Perhaps, in this way, two qualities were fixed in the name - the shape of the pods, reminiscent of thin curved goat horns, and the agricultural purpose of the plant. By the way, there are historical records indicating that the inhabitants of Hellas were familiar with fenugreek, so the names “Greek hay” and “Greek sochevitsa” are not accidental.

In the culture of the East, the spicy properties of the plant prevailed, which can be seen in the same names. In Egypt and Ethiopia, “cultivated” fenugreek is called “hilba” (al-hulbah from Aramaic Hilbeh - “milk”) and powder from its “beans” is added to bread dough, which in Arabic is called “hulbah”, and in Ethiopian – “abish”. The “milk” name is consonant with the Slavic name “gunba” (blue clover) and is due to the fact that fenugreek has a lactogenic effect on the body of a nursing woman.

In Georgia, dried and crushed pods with blue fenugreek fruits are called “utskho-suneli” - literally “foreign dry spice”. This seasoning is green in color.

Chaman is also a type of seasoning made from dried fenugreek fruits, which resembles coarse flour and has light color and a slight nutty and somewhat mushroom flavor. This naming is common in Armenia. In India, such a powder is called methi or shamballa, which indicates the reverent attitude of Indians towards this plant.

Chemical composition and beneficial properties

The greatest amount of useful substances is contained not by fenugreek grass or flowers, but by seeds:

• trigonelline alkaloid (0.3%);
• fatty oils (6%);
• nicotinic acid (3.5-18 mg%);
• mucous substances (up to 30%);
• essential oils (0.3%);

Among the valuable components of the chemical composition of Shambhala are dietary fiber, vitamins (C, B1, B2), folic acid, rutin, flavonoids, phytosterols, antioxidants, tannins, lecithin, choline, minerals and salts of iron, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium , zinc, arsenic.

Energy value of 1 tbsp. Shambhala seeds - 28 kcal.

Fenugreek owes its medicinal properties to this rich composition of seeds. Here are just a few useful qualities this amazing product:

Fenugreek oil too ancient instrument to maintain health. Thus, in Avicenna’s treatises it is mentioned as an effective aid in the treatment of diseases of the throat and lungs, ulcers and tumors in the stomach and intestines, a general tonic and cleansing agent. Now Shambhala oil is a valuable export product produced in Arab countries. It is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for the face and scalp.

Shambhala tea has cleansing properties and can be consumed up to three times a day. By following a balanced diet and getting adequate physical activity, you can say goodbye to excess weight.

Recipe for “oriental” tea from fenugreek seeds:

Required: for 1 serving – 0.5 tsp. shamballa powder or whole seeds, 250 ml of boiling water.

Preparation: Boil the required number of servings over low heat for about 5 minutes, you can add a slice of lemon, fresh mint leaves, and honey to taste.

Attention: If the body is significantly “slagged”, when taking this tea, the smell of sweat and secretions may change - this way the body is cleansed. Subject to personal hygiene, this the period will pass without inconvenience, and in the future the body will acquire a pleasant spicy aroma of this plant.

Benefits for women's health and beauty

Fenugreek also has “specific” beneficial properties for women:

• beneficial effect on women Health, relief from infectious and inflammatory diseases;
• restoration of fertility, normalization of the menstrual cycle, stimulation of ovulation by restoring the production of the hormone prolactin;
• during breastfeeding Using fenugreek tea (the recipe is given above) you can improve lactation;
• analgesic effect during painful menstruation;
• increased contraction and toning of uterine tissue, which is used during labor;
• restoration of a woman’s body after childbirth;
• hormonal support of the female body during menopause;
• an aphrodisiac used to enhance sexual desire;
• for hair: used to accelerate hair growth, combat dandruff and scalp dermatitis;
• cosmetic qualities for the skin of the face and body: getting rid of inflammation, pustules, cleansing and brightening skin tone; prevention of premature skin aging.

Let's give just two healthy recipes, which are used by oriental beauties:

1. Hair Mask. 1 tsp Mix ground fenugreek with 2-3 tbsp. olive or other quality vegetable oil, rub the resulting mixture into the hair roots, distributing it evenly, and warm your head. The mask should be washed off after half an hour.
2. Mask for cleansing facial skin. 1 tsp Mix ground fenugreek with 1 tbsp. cream or olive oil, apply to face for 10 minutes, rinse.

A piquant spice for true gourmets

Fenugreek as a seasoning is used in several variations - whole seeds ( irregular shape, resembling cubes) or ground raw materials, including leaves and pods.

If possible, you should give preference to freshly ground fenugreek, prepared from lightly roasted seeds - this will give the spice a pleasant nutty flavor, but without bitterness.

Fenugreek as a spice is included in many complex Indian and Arabic aromatic mixtures (chutney, curry, etc.) used in the preparation of coffee, desserts, fish dishes, salads, meat and vegetable dishes - soups, gravy, goulash, cutlets, stews .

Storage tip: Whole seeds are best preserved if kept in an airtight, opaque container. Ground shamballa is “afraid” of bright light, so it is better to buy it in small quantities so that the seasoning does not lose its special spicy taste and aroma.

Cautions

Considering that Shambhala is a fairly strong natural remedy, you need to remember that consuming fenugreek seeds can result in more than one benefit, but also harm if carried away to the point of fanaticism. Thus, it is not recommended to take more than 100 g of drugs based on this miracle drug per day. The purpose of the seasoning is to add a hint of flavor and a light aroma, so don’t get carried away with it. When treating, you should also pay close attention to the dosage and not exceed the established norm, as you can get severe digestive upset. In addition, there are certain conditions and diseases when taking fenugreek-based medications is fraught with complications.

Fenugreek seeds are used to obtain its most valuable oil. Being a source of coumarins, fatty acids and other useful compounds, it is highly valued in India, China, and Asian countries. In our country, the benefits of fenugreek have been used not so long ago.

Area

The homeland of fenugreek is the countries of the Mediterranean and Asia Minor. In its wild form, the plant grows in the northern part of the Alps, as well as in Central Asia.
Fenugreek is cultivated:

• countries of the Eastern part of the European continent;
• Asian countries;
• Africa;
• North America.

In our country, fenugreek is grown in the southern part of Transcaucasia.

What does it look like

The plant belongs to the legume family, which determines its morphological characteristics.

• Roots. The main central root penetrates quite deeply into the soil to ensure that the above-ground part is supplied with sufficient moisture. Lateral roots increase the area of ​​its absorption.
• Stem. Cylindrical shape, light green color. The top is branched. The total height of the stem is 60 cm.
• Leaves. Trisyllabic. Each leaf has an oblong-ovate shape. The edge is finely toothed. Leaf length – up to 2 cm, petiole attachment.
• Flowers. Appear from May to June. Small white-yellow butterfly flowers are located one or two in the axils of the leaves. Interestingly, the base of each flower is purple.
• Fruit. Long, flat, oblong beans (up to 10 cm) with an extended spout, each containing 10 to 20 seeds, square or rectangular in shape. The seeds are light yellow or brown in color and have a nutty aroma.

The whole plant emits a characteristic odor characteristic of coumarins. The aerial parts smell like celery; the seeds have a mushroom or nutty aroma.

Compound

What matters most is chemical composition fenugreek seeds, since they are used as medicinal plant raw materials. The main part of the bioactive chemical complex of fenugreek is represented by phytosterols:

• diosgenin;
• yamogenin;
• gitogenin;
• tigogenin;

They provide the hormone-like effect of the plant, as well as its ability to regulate the functioning of the food glands.

Fenugreek also contains other substances that are active in terms of their effects on the human body:

• alkaloids (trigonelline);
• steroid saponins;
• flavonoids (dioscin, jamoscin, rutin);
• mucus;
• bitterness;
• essential oil;
• fatty oil;
• protein compounds;
• tannin;
• vitamins (PP, C, B1, B2);
• minerals (iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, arsenic).

Beneficial properties of fenugreek

Fenugreek is actively used in folk medicine. Dry seeds of the plant serve as the basis for the manufacture of preparations for internal (infusions and decoctions), as well as external use (ointments, powder). The rich chemical composition determines the versatile effects of the plant on the body, as well as an extensive list of therapeutic properties.

• Effect on the heart and blood vessels. Under the influence of the plant, there is an improvement in the functioning of the heart muscle, normalization of pressure, improvement of peripheral blood flow, and normalization of the biochemical composition of the blood. Fenugreek seeds contain a huge amount of organic fatty acids that have hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic effects. Therefore, indications for use of the plant include lowering sugar levels in diabetes, initial forms of atherosclerosis, hypotension, and initial forms of hypertension.
• Action on nervous system . The plant has a stimulating effect. In Rome, it was used before gladiatorial fights to improve concentration and increase endurance of fighters. The antidepressant effect of the seeds is also noted. Indications for use include chronic fatigue, nervous exhaustion, periods of increased mental and physical stress on the body.
• Effect on the reproductive system. Concentrated fenugreek preparations stimulate myometrial contractions and cause the onset of menstruation. The plant relieves gynecological inflammation and helps eliminate pain. Helba milk decoctions are taken for lactation. With the use of seeds, an increase in both female and male libido, normalization of testicular and ovarian function, and an increase in the likelihood of conceiving a child are noted.
• Healing effect. Fenugreek contains a lot of mucilage, pectin, gum, and antibacterial substances. It can be used to accelerate the healing of weeping and festering wounds, carbuncles, ulcers, burns, and frostbite. When taking the seeds internally, the plant has a regenerating effect on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).
• Effect on the respiratory organs. Fenugreek seeds help cure cough. At the same time, the plant alleviates the symptoms of dry cough, eliminates sore throat, and also thins and removes thick mucus. Anti-inflammatory properties make it possible to use it in complex therapy of tuberculosis, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Strong extracts from fenugreek are used to rinse the throat and mouth for inflammatory diseases and infections.
• Effect on the digestive system. Fenugreek stimulates the secretion of gastric and pancreatic juice and bile. Improves appetite, helps digest food faster and more fully. The plant normalizes metabolism, accelerates the onset of a feeling of satiety, and is therefore used for weight loss.

Other plant capabilities

Fenugreek seeds can be used to maintain beauty, slimness, and youth.

The medicinal properties of fenugreek are manifested when it is used in any form. Enriching your diet with seeds will gently stimulate digestion, and water extracts will make you feel a surge of strength and vitality.

How to use Shambhala

To heal and strengthen the body, the seeds, as well as the apical leaves of fenugreek, are used. Preparing medicines at home will not take much time if you use the following recipes.

Decoction

Peculiarities. Suitable as an anti-cold, tonic and anti-allergic remedy, stimulates appetite, restores vitality.

Preparation and use

1. To prepare fenugreek decoction, pour a tablespoon of seeds into a cup cold water(250 ml).
2. The mixture is heated to a boil, simmered over low heat for 45 minutes.
3. Strain and consume the entire volume at a time, half an hour before lunch.

Egyptian tea

Peculiarities. Drink to improve digestion, increase libido, and also as a tonic. In Egypt, this is a familiar drink for the population, but our citizens should not abuse it.

Preparation and use

1. Roasted seeds are used to prepare the drink. In ready-to-eat form, they can be purchased in oriental and tea shops.
2. One or two teaspoons of seeds are poured into a glass of boiling water.
3. Place on the fire and maintain a low simmer for eight minutes.
4. Strain, cool slightly, add sugar, honey, ginger.
5. Drink no more than two cups in the morning.

Seed paste

Peculiarities. Helps cope with baldness, treats wounds, ulcers, carbuncles and other abscesses. Can be used as a nourishing and exfoliating mask.

Preparation and use

1. Two tablespoon crushed seeds are poured with boiling water overnight.
2. The water should cover the seeds well.
3. For cosmetic purposes, the paste obtained in the morning is applied to the scalp or face for half an hour.
4. To treat wounds, the paste is applied under a bandage to the injured area of ​​skin and washed off after two hours. clean water. Repeat the procedure twice or three times a day.

Infusion of leaves

Peculiarities. Shambhala leaves have an antimicrobial, astringent, and softening effect. They are used to strengthen hair and also to cleanse the skin.

Preparation and use

1. Two tablespoons of dried leaves are poured with half a liter of boiling water.
2. Fenugreek leaves should be brewed for an hour.
3. Rinse your hair with the infusion after washing or use it to wash your face.

Medicines on sale

Have enhanced therapeutic properties dosage forms from helba, prepared in industrial conditions. Making fenugreek tincture yourself is quite difficult, because high-quality extraction of active substances can only be achieved using different extractants. An excellent alternative to tincture is fenugreek extract, which absorbs all the beneficial qualities of the seeds.

The extract is available in liquid and tablet form. The liquid form is used in cosmetology. Tablets are taken three times a day, two pieces at a time, for all indications inherent in this plant.

Fenugreek oil is also produced. The high concentration of volatile components causes its specific odor. The use of fenugreek oil is indicated:

• to enrich the composition of cosmetics;
• to improve hair condition;
• in combination with massage oil for body skin care;
• With linseed oil– for breast enlargement.

Interestingly, fenugreek oil has analgesic and anti-edematous properties, and therefore can be used in the complex treatment of joint diseases.

Use in cooking

Fenugreek seeds have interesting taste and aroma, and therefore are used to enrich the taste of dishes from:

• meat;
• fish;
• mushrooms;
• vegetables

The use of fenugreek is especially popular in the cooking of eastern countries. There, not a single main dish is complete without helba. But due to its specific taste, fenugreek is added along with other seasonings in very small quantities. The seeds are often included in specific national desserts.

Helba in the form of dried seeds can be stored for a year. The spice, ground into powder, retains its taste and medicinal qualities for three months, so it is better to grind the seeds immediately before use.

Is helba always useful?

Despite all the beneficial properties of shamballa seeds, there are restrictions for their use.

• For men. Helba is used to increase potency and physical endurance, but due to its estrogen-like effect, men should use the product for a short time - one to two weeks.
• For pregnant. Fenugreek has a tonic effect on the uterine muscles, so its use is prohibited in the early and middle stages of pregnancy. Fenugreek can be used a few days before giving birth to improve lactation and facilitate the birth process. However, the use of any plants must be agreed with your doctor.
• For women. Fenugreek contraindications include gynecological disorders when additional synthesis of estrogen and prolactin is undesirable (tumors, cysts). You should not use fenugreek if you have uterine bleeding.

According to reviews, the only unpleasant side effect of taking fenugreek is a change in body odor. This is provoked by the antitoxic effect of helba, as a result of which the secretion of sweat increases and its composition changes. If you follow the rules of personal hygiene bad smell will not arise.

Harm from fenugreek is extremely rare, and its moderate use in the diet will only bring benefits and longevity to a person. In order for the spice to have only a beneficial effect, it is important to observe the correct dosages when adding to food, as well as when making medicines.

Fenugreek is a plant whose beneficial properties have been known to mankind for several millennia. About the healing potential of this plant, and how to use it to improve your health and general state Our article will tell you on the topic: what is fenugreek?

Fenugreek: description, photo

Fenugreek (in Latin Trigonella foénum-graécum) is a annual plant, which belongs to the Fenugreek genus, the Legume family and the Moth subfamily.

Know! Since the plant is very popular and is used in many countries, it has been given many names: Greek fenugreek, shambhala, fenugreek, chaman, methi, hilbe, helba, Greek goat trefoil, “philosophical clover,” camel thorn, cocked hat and others.

The maximum height of the foénum-graécum can reach sixty centimeters. Shambhala has alternate trifoliate, egg-shaped leaves about two centimeters long. The edges of the foliage are slightly jagged. Representatives of this species are characterized by a tap root and a branched, rounded stem.

Fenugreek has small butterfly flowers that “sit” singly or in rootstocks in the leaf axils. The flowers are colored white and yellow, with light shades of purple at the base. The flowering period occurs in May-June.

Attention! The fruit of the plant is beans containing hard, rectangular-shaped seeds. The beans may be naked or drooping. They grow up to ten centimeters in length, and only up to five millimeters in width.

Where does Trigonella foénum-graécum grow?

In the wild, fenugreek can be found in Eastern European and Caucasian countries, as well as in mountainous areas in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, middle Asia. Wild Shambhala can be found in Ethiopia and Egypt. Due to its unique properties, fenugreek is actively cultivated all over the world. It grows well in clay-rich soils in sunny areas.

What kind of plant is this

The first mention of the use of Hilbe in medicinal purposes found even in ancient Egyptian papyri. At that time, foénum-graécum was used to treat burns. In the Middle Ages, Shambhala was considered a remedy capable of relieving many diseases. And the famous doctor Avicenna believed that with its help you can get rid of any ailment.

Know! Athletes from Ancient Greece and gladiators consumed fenugreek seeds to give strength and improve appetite. Doctors from Arab countries treated abscesses and wounds. The Chinese used Shambhala to treat hernias, kidney and bladder diseases, muscle pain and fever. In India, Shambhala was used to strengthen women's health and treat ulcers.

In Russia and neighboring states, foénum-graécum has become popular since the beginning of the eighteenth century. Prior to this, its unique properties were undiscovered, and fenugreek was considered an ordinary grass growing in pastures and intended for feeding livestock. This herb has an aroma reminiscent of hay, so it was added to animal feed to improve its quality. It is believed that the grass got its name from the word pasture - “pasture”.

Peter the Great changed the situation. By his decree of 1701, he founded an apothecary garden, on the territory of which he planted with his own hands the seeds of medicinal plants brought from different countries. I ended up in the apothecary garden and foénum-graécum. Namely, from then on they began to look closely at it as a medicinal herb. Although by this time the beneficial properties of Shambhala had already been actively used all over the world.

Wikipedia informs

Important! Fenugreek seeds are used as medicinal raw materials. Seeds that are collected in the ripe phase contain steroidal saponins (up to 1.34% of the total), such as yamogenin, diosgenin, tigonin.

Shambhala contains a significant amount of the following useful substances: carbohydrates, proteins, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, calcium, folic acid, amino acids, polysaccharides, phytosterols, B vitamins, vitamins PP, A, C and other useful microelements.

Properties and contraindications

The abundance of useful substances contained in its composition gives fenugreek the following beneficial properties:

1. Vitamin PP has a positive effect on the functioning of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, normalizes fat metabolism, protects joints, and reduces the risk of diabetes.
2. Vitamin A improves immunity, helps get rid of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and genitourinary system, promotes the redistribution of fat cells and enhances the regenerative functions of the body.
3. Vitamin C helps maintain slimness and improve a person’s emotional state.
4. Vitamin B1 improves memory and alertness, helps protect cells and neutralize toxins.
5. Vitamin B2 improves eye health, increases resistance to stress, and converts fat cells into carbohydrate cells.
6. Vitamin B9 ensures normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, helps improve blood formation and mood.
7. Carotenoids ensure normal water balance and oxygen saturation of cells.
8. Phytosterols improve immunity.
9. Flavonoids are antioxidants that improve the functioning of the heart muscle.
10. Polysaccharides are removed from the body harmful substances, normalize cell function.
11. Iron has a beneficial effect on the condition of hair, skin, and nails.
12. Potassium reduces fatigue, normalizes blood pressure, and provides nutrition to brain tissue.
13. Magnesium provides protection for the cardiovascular, endocrine and digestive systems.
14. Sodium normalizes water balance and helps saturate cells with glucose.
15. Phosphorus ensures normal brain function and energy metabolism.
16. Selenium performs a protective function.

Know! This is not a complete list of the beneficial properties of Shambhala. The effectiveness of its use is confirmed by many scientific studies. Many books, scientific articles and publications in traditional medicine journals have been written about the benefits of helba.

The unique healing properties of this herb will be useful to everyone, regardless of age and gender. No wonder fenugreek is called “the herb for a hundred diseases.” Drinking Hilbe tea daily will automatically make your body much healthier. After just two months of using it, you will find that you have gotten rid of some unpleasant diseases forever. This fact confirmed by many clinical studies.

A contraindication for the use of fenugreek is during pregnancy. Products based on it tone the uterus, which can cause miscarriage. People who have elevated estrogen or prolactin levels should not take Hilbe.

If you have problems with the thyroid gland and asthmatic diseases, you should take products with fenugreek with extreme caution. The same applies to the presence of diabetes, especially its insulin-dependent form. In the latter case, you should stop taking Hilbe.

It is important to remember that this plant does not combine with foxglove and plantain. This point must be taken into account so as not to harm the body. In any case, before starting treatment using this medicinal plant It is advisable to obtain prior consultation with a specialist.

Spice: use in cooking

All parts of this plant have an intense odor, which has led to its widespread use as a seasoning for preparing a variety of dishes. This seasoning has a nutty flavor, and the aftertaste resembles the taste of mushrooms

Shambhala seeds are actively used in Indian cuisine, in particular, for preparing the popular Indian dish - dhal. The shoots of young plants are used as a seasoning for making cheese and preparing meat dishes. They are integral part world-famous seasonings chaman and khmeli-suneli. The plant contains significant amounts of galactomannan, called “fenugreek gum,” which is used as a food additive E417.

Fenugreek in cheese - what is it?

Know! This plant is a key ingredient in the famous Swiss green cheese called Schabziger. For this purpose, a special plant variety called “blue fenugreek” is used. This cheese is prepared exclusively from skim milk with the addition of dried herbs.

Application for women

Fenugreek is known to most women and is actively used by them as a seasoning for meat dishes, soups and salads. However, not everyone is familiar with the unique properties of foénum-graécum, which help women become not only healthier, but also more beautiful.

Shambhala is able to provide the fair sex with invaluable assistance on the following issues:

• cleans effectively painful sensations during menstruation, inflammation of the genital organs;
• increases lactation;
• treats infertility;
• helps to regain strength after childbirth;
• increases the level of tarragon and reduces excess testosterone;
• treats diseases of the endocrine system in women;
• increases hair growth, prevents hair loss;
• Shambhala oil helps to correct the shape of the breast, and even increase its size.

Important! The effectiveness of using foénum-graécum in the treatment of diseases of the endocrine system is explained by the presence in its composition of a significant amount of phytohormones, namely: antiandrogens, progesterone, corticosteroids, phytoestrogens.

Today, an increasing number of endocrinologists support the idea of ​​treating endocrine diseases with the help of natural hormone substitutes. The latter affect the endocrine system in almost the same way as human hormones. Taking them has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the endocrine system; moreover, phytohormones are effective antioxidants and cleanse the body of harmful toxins.

Diostegin, which is contained in helba seeds, acts in female body similar to estrogen. Thus, preparations based on foénum-graécum compensate for the lack of tarragon and lower testosterone levels. Medicinal products made from this herb have a beneficial effect on the muscle tissue of the uterus, eliminate inflammation, normalize sugar levels, and increase sexual activity.

Attention! Shambhala contains a significant amount of glycyrrhizic acid, the properties of which are similar to the hormone called cortisol. Fenugreek actively fights inflammation and destroys harmful bacteria. It is an effective remedy for the treatment of polycystic disease, helps lower cholesterol, and stabilize blood pressure.

Recipe for a full and firm bust

Add seven drops of Shambhala oil to flaxseed or sesame oil. Apply the resulting mixture of oils to both breasts using gentle massage movements. After finishing the massage session, wash off the oil from the bust by alternating cold and warm water.

Recipe for improving lactation

To prepare a healing decoction we will need:

• seeds – 2 tsp. spoons;
• purified water – 1 glass.

Pre-soak the seeds in water for two hours. After this, boil them for about ten minutes. We use the decoction three or four times throughout the day.

Recipe for those who want to get pregnant

Pour one large spoonful of seeds into a glass of boiling water and simmer over low heat for about five minutes. Add lemon, ginger and honey to the resulting drink. To achieve the desired result, you need to take this tea for at least a month. You should drink two to three glasses of tea throughout the day.

Application for weight loss

Attention! The problem of excess weight is familiar to many, and this can also help you solve it. amazing plant. Shambhala will help you comfortably get rid of extra centimeters at the waist thanks to its following features:

1. It is an effective antioxidant, cleanses the body of toxins and harmful toxins.
2. Creates a feeling of fullness thanks to the high amount of fiber and tart flavor, thus preventing overeating.
3. It has a fairly low calorie content - one tablespoon of seeds contains about 36 kilocalories.
4. Promotes burning of fat cells.
5. Provides a balance of taste sensations.
6. Improves the functioning of the body's immune system.
7. Neutralizes the negative effects of stressful situations, strengthens the nervous system.

Attention! The best option drinking foénum-graécum to get rid of extra pounds would be tea. Taking Helba in this form is not only convenient, but also pleasant. No wonder, pleasant aromatic tea yellow color with the same name “helba” became a traditional and favorite drink of the Egyptians.

Tea recipe

To prepare a tea drink, pour the seeds (1 teaspoon) with 250 ml of water and boil for about ten minutes. It is advisable to cool the tea a little. To improve the taste, you can add honey or sugar to the tea drink.

Turmeric + helba + ginger for weight loss

This oriental version of aromatic tea is prepared from the following ingredients:

• helba - 1 table. spoon;
• turmeric – 1 tsp. spoon;
• grated ginger – 100 grams;
• lemon – 1 pc.

Pour the listed ingredients with water and cook for five minutes. Let the tea brew for about three hours. Then we filter the tea drink and consume it in any quantity.

Attention! Thanks to Shambhala, the fair sex can get rid of such an unpleasant phenomenon as cellulite and significantly improve skin turgor.

Recipe for cellulite

Grind the seeds, brew them with boiling water, let them brew until cool. Apply the resulting paste to problem areas. To improve the effect, you can make warming bandages. It is necessary to “wear” such applications for about an hour, and it is advisable to do any work that does not require much effort. You need to perform a similar procedure a couple of times a week, and you will be able to notice improvements in the condition of your skin within a month.

Fenugreek seasoning for men

Thanks to its unique composition, foénum-graécum seeds are able to stimulate sexual activity in men, and also effectively fight inflammation that occurs in the male genital area. Scientific studies have shown that the seeds contain a significant amount of saponins that produce testosterone, which stimulates an increase in sexual activity in the stronger sex by approximately twenty-five percent.

Important! Thus, regular consumption of hilbe can have the following beneficial effects on a man’s body:

• increasing potency;
• increased blood mobility in the pelvic area;
• good spermatogenesis.

We present to your attention several simple and effective recipes that can significantly improve men's health in a short time.

Decoction for men

The decoction is prepared from the following components:

• fenugreek seeds – 50 grams;
• yarrow leaves – 100 grams;
• calamus roots – 50 grams;
• boiling water – 250 grams.

Mix all the ingredients and let the drink brew for thirty minutes. We take one glass of the drink several times a day.

Recipe with sprouts

Know! In terms of beneficial effects, fenugreek is equivalent to fish oil. It effectively cleanses the blood, kidneys and liver. Not only the seeds of this amazing plant, but also its sprouts can be useful for men.

Experts recommend adding one teaspoon of sprouts to a man’s diet daily. You can consume sprouts by adding them to prepared foods, such as salads or soups. Germinating the seeds will not cause much trouble; this process will take you about a week. The effect of taking sprouts occurs approximately a month after the start of their use.

Prescription for impotence

To prepare a healing drink we will need:

• crushed seeds - 2 tablespoons. spoons;
• hot milk - 1 glass.

Mix the ingredients and drink the drink while hot. To achieve the desired effect, you must take the drink daily.

Application for hair

Attention! As mentioned earlier, Shambhala is an effective remedy for hair health and growth. Thanks to simple recipes, you can not only stop excessive hair loss, but also increase hair growth.

Recipe with coconut oil

We prepare a healing composition for curls by mixing the following components:

• coconut oil - 2 tablespoons. spoons;
• Hilbe oil – 2 drops;
• sandalwood oil – 2 drops.

Using gentle massage movements, rub the resulting mixture into the skin under the hair. Leave the applied composition on for several hours and then wash off as usual.

Decoction for hair

We prepare a wonderful decoction by brewing one glass of Hilbe seeds in boiling water in the amount of one small spoon. After the broth has cooled and steeped, you need to rub it into dry hair several times a day. This procedure will make your hair healthier, softer and shiny.

Recipe for hair loss

We prepare a healing mask from the following components:

• Shambhala seeds - 1 table. spoon;
• purified water – 1 glass.

Boil the resulting mixture for about ten minutes, let it cool slightly, and apply the resulting mixture to the skin under the hair.

Use for diabetes

Attention! Fenugreek is a natural sugar substitute that does not affect blood insulin levels. The plant has antiandrogenic properties that help relieve endocrine system disorders caused by elevated testosterone levels.

Thanks to the above features, Shambhala is a wonderful remedy that significantly improves the condition of people suffering from diabetes mellitus. Taking remedies with Helba allows you to:

1. Lower blood sugar.
2. Normalize metabolism.
3. Restore the functioning of the pancreas.
4. Cleanse the body of waste and toxins.
5. Improve the elasticity of blood vessels.
6. Reduce fatty liver disease.
7. Stabilize the functioning of the nervous system.
8. Get rid of excess weight.

This plant belongs to the legume family. It is an annual shrub that is more often found in the wild than in home gardens.

Where does it grow

Counts unpretentious culture. You can find fenugreek in Eastern Europe, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Armenia, Ethiopia, India, and the Caucasus. A small amount of it can be found even in America, France, Argentina, and Morocco. The popularity of chaman is that it is used in agriculture and medicine. However, its main area of ​​application is cooking. Fenugreek is known as an unusual spice that people all over the world are trying to learn how to grow.

Photo of a plant in the wild

What does it look like

It is a small bush, the height of which reaches 60 cm. The stem is even and branched. It grows small oval leaves, collected in groups of three. Depending on the variety (fenugreek can be hay or blue), small white, yellow, blue flowers. The fruits are very small (the size of one seed is no more than 4 mm), ripen in oblong pods.

Leaves

Fruit

Chemical composition

Of all fenugreek, only the seeds are valuable to the human body. 100 g of product contains the following vitamins and microelements:

• Vitamin A - 60 mg;
• Vitamin C - 3 mg;
• B6 - 0.6 mg;
• B2 - 0.366 mg;
• B1 - 0.322 mg;
• Potassium - 770 mg;
• Phosphorus - 296 mg;
• Magnesium - 191 mg;
• Calcium - 176 mg;
• Sodium - 67 mg;
• Iron - 33.53 mg;
• Selenium - 6.3 mg;
• Zinc - 2.5 mg;
• Copper - 1.11 mcg.

Spice

The nutritional value

100 g of Shambhala seeds contain the following nutritional components:

1. Carbohydrates - 58.4 g;
2. Proteins - 23 g;
3. Fats - 6.4 g.

The number of calories in this amount of product is 323 kcal.

Beneficial properties and contraindications of fenugreek

Among the positive properties of Shambhala are:

• Reduces blood sugar and cholesterol levels;
• Increases immunity, increasing the body's protective functions;
• Promotes rapid healing of wounds;
• Normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Resists constipation;
• Has anti-inflammatory properties;
• Treats allergies;
• Reduces toothache, joint pain;
• Helps during colds;
• Stabilizes blood pressure;
• Has an expectorant effect during a strong cough;
• Cleanses the skin;
• Improves the condition of a patient with cancer by fighting cancer cells.

Useful in any way

When deciding to start introducing fenugreek into your daily diet, you need to be aware of its contraindications:

1. Prohibited during pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage;
2. When diagnosing hyperestrogenism;
3. If the patient has diabetes mellitus;
4. During gastritis, stomach ulcers, colitis;
5. It should not be added to the diet of people who have problems associated with blood clotting;
6. It is prohibited to take medications that contain thyroid hormone at the same time as fenugreek.

For men

Chaman plays a special role in men's health, increasing sexual activity and restoring male strength. This effect is achieved due to the fact that shamballa seeds stimulate the production of testosterone. Other positive properties of this plant include:

• Relieves inflammatory processes characteristic of men;
• Improves sperm activity;
• Normalizes blood flow in the pelvis.

Fenugreek should be taken in the form of tea with milk, sprouting the seeds, and also adding dry seasoning to various dishes.

Helps with prostatitis

For women

Doctors have proven that fenugreek has great benefits for the female body:

1. Improves the lactation process by promoting the production breast milk;
2. Relieves pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation;
3. Helps get rid of depression, regain strength and lost energy during menopause;
4. Fenugreek masks return women to their former youth, strengthen hair, and promote rapid growth.

Areas of application of fenugreek

Fenugreek has found wide application in various fields of activity. Let's look at each of them in more detail.

Cooking

In cooking, not only shamballa seeds are used, but also its other components:

• Raw seeds are added to first courses, salads;
• Dry seeds make delicious tea. In addition, they are part of the spices that are usually added during the preparation of legumes;
• Dried, crushed leaves can also add an unusual taste to meat, vegetable, and fish dishes;
• Fresh leaves complement sauces, salads, soups, meat dishes, side dishes, creating a special bitterness;
• Having an unusual nutty flavor, making dishes a little spicy, fenugreek is sometimes included in the ingredients for preparing adjika;
• Connoisseurs of unusual cheeses love varieties that may contain shamballa seeds;
• There are many cuisines around the world where this seasoning is used to prepare confectionery products.

Ground seeds

Dry seeds

ethnoscience

The use of chaman in folk medicine has long been known. A drink made from fenugreek seeds will help get rid of dry cough during colds, quench thirst, and promote the production of breast milk. To do this, they are crushed in a special mortar for seasonings or a coffee grinder, and then filled with cold water.

ATTENTION! This recipe requires cold water.

For one serving (250 ml of liquid) you need 2 teaspoons of ground seeds. After pouring them into water, the mixture is allowed to steep (about 3 hours). After this, the liquid is boiled for several minutes and immediately filtered.

A mixture of crushed shamballa seeds and water will help get rid of carbuncles and boils. The components are combined to obtain the consistency of thick sour cream. Spread it on a piece of gauze or bandage and apply it to the affected area of ​​the skin. Every 4 hours the bandage is changed to a new one.

Cosmetology

Shambhala is widely used in cosmetology. In a short period of time it can improve the condition of the scalp, strengthen hair, and get rid of dandruff. A mixture of olive oil and chaman will help get rid of acne. The mask is applied for 10 minutes and washed off.

A mask made from the following ingredients, taken in equal quantities, will help moisturize the skin on your face and hands:

• Carrot juice;
• Aloe juice;
• Fenugreek;

Will get rid of dandruff

The prepared mass is applied to the skin for 15 minutes and washed off warm water.

Shambhala seasoning

The process of creating seasoning does not require any special skills, but it is important to know when to do it correctly in order to preserve as much as possible all the beneficial properties of fenugreek.

How to get the spice

Preparing the spice is quite simple. To do this, you need to wait until the fruits of the plant ripen (they begin to turn yellow and turn brown-red). Having taken out the seeds from them, they are dried and ground in a mortar (you can grind them in a coffee grinder).

The spice is also made from shamballa leaves. To do this correctly, they wait until the flowering period ends, cut the bush and dry it. It is crushed to a powdery state and added to dishes, used in cosmetology and medicine.

Where do they add

This seasoning is an integral component of many dishes:

• Meat, vegetable dishes, side dishes, because it gives them a sharpness, a slight bitterness, making the taste memorable;
• Soups;
• Basturma;
• It is added to baked goods and sweet pastries;
• Tea, coffee;
• Alcohol;
• Cheese.

Open eggplants with fenugreek

It is used undried by raw foodists and vegetarians because it is a source of many vitamins.

IMPORTANT! Fenugreek is almost never added to fish dishes, because it does not go well with seafood.

How to store seasoning

Depending on the form in which the seasoning is, it has different shelf life:

1. Dry seeds - 2 years;
2. Dried leaves - 1 year;
3. Ground seeds - 3 months.

It is better to store in a glass or metal jar

What can be replaced

The most common substitute for fenugreek is roasted hazelnuts, which are great for meat dishes and salads.

Fenugreek tea recipe

To brew tea, fenugreek seeds are used, which give the drink a tonic effect, refresh it, and have an original taste. To make such tea, preserving all its vitamins and taste properties, it is not enough to simply pour boiling water over the grains. The cooking technology is as follows:

• The seeds are cleaned of debris and dried;
• Lightly fry them in a dry frying pan, grind in a coffee grinder to a powdery state;
• You can prepare one serving (200 ml of water) from 2 teaspoons of powder, which are added to the liquid, put on fire and brought to a boil.

Tea with shamballa seeds

IMPORTANT! A prerequisite for preparation: after boiling, the drink is boiled over low heat for at least 8 minutes.

The resulting drink is a beautiful yellow color. Drink it warm. If the taste seems unusual at first, you can diversify it with honey, lemon, ginger, and add a little milk.

Fenugreek for weight loss

Shambhala helps to get rid of extra pounds and also not to gain weight. This can be done if you don’t eat half an hour before meals. a large number of seeds This will remove the feeling of hunger, creating a feeling of fullness.

This plant will help you get in shape

If there is cellulite on the body, experts advise preparing a paste from ground fenugreek seeds. Boiling water is added to the resulting powder and the components are stirred to obtain a mass with a consistency reminiscent of thick sour cream. The cooled mask is applied to the skin, covered plastic film and leave for an hour. After this, rinse with water and lubricate the body with moisturizer. It is recommended to repeat this procedure every day for a week, twice a day. The result will appear in 4 weeks if you follow all the tips and recommendations.

Fenugreek for hair

An excellent product for strengthening hair. To do this, use the following recipes:

1. Brew 4 tablespoons of dry leaves in 200 ml of boiling water. Wait until the liquid cools and rub well into the scalp;
2. A mixture of fenugreek and olive oil will get rid of dandruff. The prepared mass is rubbed into the head, wrapped in plastic wrap and a towel for half an hour. Wash off with water and shampoo;
3. 2 tablespoons of seeds are poured with water and left for 10-12 hours. After this time, the plant is kneaded, turning into a paste, and applied to the hair for 60 minutes. After this, wash off with warm water and shampoo. This recipe helps strengthen hair, gives it shine and makes it stronger.

To enlarge the bust

There are many recipes that will help you enlarge your breasts and significantly tighten them in a short period of time. Let's look at some of them:

1. Grind fenugreek seeds, anise, fennel, clover flowers, licorice root, basil. Several times a day before meals, slowly dissolve a teaspoon of the product, then drink it with a glass of clean water;
2. Make tea from fenugreek seeds. You need to drink the drink every morning and evening;
3. Mix juice red clover and ground shamballa seeds. After taking a shower, rub into your chest, leave for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Fenugreek is an amazing plant that is known throughout the world due to its healing properties. The field of cooking generally cannot do without this seasoning. When using Shambhala in folk medicine and cosmetology, do not forget to first consult your doctor.

11.10.2017

If you have never heard of fenugreek, then all about what kind of plant it is, its correct use in cooking and medicine, composition, medicinal properties and contraindications you will find out here. Fenugreek has become very popular in recent years as it has many health benefits for men and women, but nutritionists recommend including it in small amounts in the daily diet, warning of possible harm.

What is fenugreek?

Fenugreek is a plant called Trigonella foenum-graecum, whose small yellow-brown seeds are primarily used as a spice, imparting a sweet, nutty flavor with a bitter note. This seasoning is added to curry pastes, soups, and stews.

What fenugreek looks like - photo

general description

Fenugreek (emphasis on the first syllable) is a small annual plant belonging to the Legume family, genus Trigonella. Scientific name: Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek or Greek).

Some of the other names of fenugreek are: fenugreek, shambhala, helba, methi, chaman, Greek clover, sminduh.

Fenugreek is widely grown in Argentina, France, India, North Africa, England and the United States.

The plant reaches a height of approximately 30-60 cm, with light green clover-like leaves and white flowers. It produces long, thin, yellow-brown pods containing about 10-20 golden-brown seeds.

Fenugreek seeds are small, hard, and resemble tiny, multi-faceted rocks. When raw, they have a maple aroma and bitter taste, which becomes more pleasant when lightly toasted over low heat.

Fenugreek leaves can be used as a green vegetable, while the aromatic, bitter seeds, whole or ground into powder, can be used as a spice. Seed sprouts are also eaten.

How do you get this seasoning?

The seeds are collected when they are ripe. They are dried and used in decoctions, pastes and powders.

What does fenugreek taste and smell like?

Fenugreek seeds add a sweet, slightly nutty, maple syrup-like flavor to dishes. The raw leaves or seeds have a bitter note. Cooking usually removes the bitterness in the leaves, but all seeds retain a bitter flavor even if cooked for a long time. Fresh greens have a mushroom flavor.

Fenugreek seeds have a sweet, tangy aroma that spreads throughout the kitchen and lingers all day after cooking with this spice.

How to choose and where to buy fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds can be purchased in the spice section of grocery stores. They are sold in various forms, such as:

• whole seeds;
• powdered;
• pasta in vacuum packaging.

It is best to buy whole seeds. They should be a bright golden yellow color, firm and exuding a delicate maple aroma.

Avoid old stocks, as if stored for too long, the seeds can become infected with fungus or mold and lose flavor.

How and how long to store fenugreek

Store whole seeds in an airtight glass container in a cool, dark place where they will stay fresh for up to six months.

Store the powdered or paste form of fenugreek in airtight bags in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Fresh leaves have a short shelf life and should be used immediately.

Chemical composition

Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of minerals, vitamins and phytonutrients.

Nutritional value of fenugreek per 100 g.

Name	Quantity	Percentage of daily value, %
Energy value (calorie content)	323 Kcal	16
Carbohydrates	58.35 g	45
Protein	23 g	41
Fats	6.41 g	21
Dietary fiber (fiber)	24.6 g	65
Folates	57 mcg	14
Niacin	1,640 mg	7
Pyridoxine	0.600 mg	46
Riboflavin	0.366 mg	28
Thiamine	0.322 mg	27
Vitamin A	60 IU	2
Vitamin C	3 mg	5
Sodium	67 mg	4,5
Potassium	770 mg	16
Calcium	176 mg	18
Copper	1.110 mg	123
Iron	33.53 mg	419
Magnesium	191 mg	48
Manganese	1.288 mg	53
Phosphorus	296 mg	42
Selenium	6.3 mcg	11
Zinc	2.50 mg	23

Physiological role

Fenugreek has the following effects on the body:

• tonic;
• expectorant;
• diuretic;
• aphrodisiac;
• stimulating lactation in nursing mothers.

Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Modern research has revealed all the beneficial properties of fenugreek, and it has been proven that it helps in solving numerous health problems.

• The seeds contain a large amount of soluble fiber (dietary fiber): in 100 g - 24.6 g or more than 65% of the daily requirement.
• Non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) constitute a significant portion of the fiber contained in fenugreek seeds. Some of the major NSPs include saponins, hemicellulose, mucilage, tannin and pectin. These compounds help lower levels of bad cholesterol in the blood by inhibiting the reabsorption of bile salts in the colon. They also bind to toxins in food and help protect the colon lining from cancer.
• Non-starchy polysaccharides increase the volume of food and accelerate intestinal motility. Overall, NSPs aid digestion and help relieve constipation.
• In addition, fiber slows down the rate of glucose absorption in the intestines and thereby helps regulate blood sugar levels better. For this reason, fenugreek seeds are one of the recommended food ingredients in a diabetic diet.
• Fenugreek contains many phytochemicals such as choline, trigonellinediosenine, yamogenin, gitogenin, tigogenin and neotigogens.
• This valuable spice is an excellent source of minerals such as copper, potassium, calcium, iron, selenium, zinc, manganese and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of body cells and fluids that help control heart rate and blood pressure. Iron is important for the production of red blood cells and as a cofactor for cytochrome oxidase enzymes.
• Fenugreek is also rich in many essential vitamins, including thiamine, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins A and C.
• Its seeds have been used in many traditional medicines as a laxative, digestive and as a remedy for cough and bronchitis.
• When used regularly, fenugreek regulates cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and blood sugar in people with diabetes.

So, here are some benefits of fenugreek for women and men:

1. Reduces blood cholesterol levels. According to research, fenugreek helps lower cholesterol, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL), as it contains steroidal saponins, which prevent the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides.
2. Reduces the risk of heart disease. Due to the presence of galactomannan, fenugreek plays a key role in maintaining heart health. It also contains high amounts of potassium, which helps maintain normal heart rate and blood pressure.
3. Controls blood sugar levels. Diabetics benefit from including fenugreek (in seed or leaf form) in their diet as galactomannan (a natural soluble fiber) present in fenugreek slows down the rate of absorption of sugar in the blood. It also contains an amino acid responsible for inducing insulin production.
4. Helps Digestion. Since fenugreek is rich in fiber and antioxidants, it helps eliminate harmful toxins from the body and thus helps in digestion. Fenugreek tea is used to relieve indigestion and stomach pain. Fenugreek decoction taken early in the morning helps relieve constipation.
5. Resists reflux or heartburn. One teaspoon of fenugreek - effective remedy from these diseases. Mucus envelops the irritated walls of the stomach and intestines. Before consumption, the seeds are soaked in water to make their outer coating mucilaginous.
6. Helps lose weight. Include fenugreek in your weight loss diet by chewing the pre-soaked seeds in the morning on an empty stomach. Soluble fiber swells and fills the stomach, thereby suppressing appetite and promoting weight loss.
7. Effective against fever and sore throat. Fenugreek mixed with a teaspoon of lemon and honey can work wonders to reduce fever. The soothing mucilage effect of its seeds also helps relieve coughs and sore throats.
8. Increases breast milk supply in lactating women. This property is due to the presence of diosgenin in the composition, which increases milk production in nursing mothers.
9. Helps reduce menstrual discomfort. Fenugreek contains compounds such as diosgenin and isoflavones with estrogen-like properties that help reduce symptoms such as discomfort and menstrual cramps associated with PMS. These compounds also relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
10. Can increase breast size. The estrogen-like properties of fenugreek may help in breast enlargement by regulating hormones in women. This is the result of flavonoids or phytoestrogens.
11. Has a positive effect on male libido and potency. Compounds in fenugreek have also been shown to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction (ED).
12. Helps prevent colon cancer. The fibers in the composition (saponins, mucus, etc.) bind to toxins in food and remove them. This, in turn, helps protect the colon from cancer.
13. Solves hair problems. Directly applying fenugreek paste to your hair will make your hair shiny and dark. Daily head massage with a decoction of the seeds of this spice mixed with coconut oil fights thinning and hair loss, and also perfectly eliminates dandruff.

Fenugreek seeds contain water-absorbing fibers, so you need to drink plenty of water if you take them as dietary supplements.

Contraindications (harm) of fenugreek

Using fenugreek as a seasoning in moderation in cooked foods is considered safe, but taking it in medicinal dosages can be harmful in some cases:

• Excessive consumption of fenugreek seeds during pregnancy can pose a risk of miscarriage or premature birth. This is due to the content of oxytocin, a substance that stimulates uterine contractions.
• Considering that fenugreek belongs to the same genus as peanuts or chickpeas, allergic reactions to it often occur.
• Fenugreek can lower your blood sugar, so taking it in combination with diabetes medications can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
• A high dose of fenugreek seeds may contribute to gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea.

Another side effect of taking fenugreek supplements is that your body and urine begin to smell like maple syrup. Whether this is good or bad depends on whether you like the smell of maple syrup, but it is not harmful to your health.

Uses of fenugreek in cooking

Fenugreek, in the form of whole or sprouted seeds, powder, paste or sauce, is used in a variety of culinary recipes, especially in spice mixtures.

This seasoning is added to food in small quantities because it has a strong aroma and bitter taste.

• Toast the seeds in a dry frying pan at low heat to soften their flavor.
• To reduce the bitter note of the seeds and soften their texture, you can soak them in water. Another option is to place them in cheesecloth, tie them with string, and drop them into the dish when cooking, which allows the sweet flavor of the seasoning to permeate the food while making it easier to remove the seeds.

Here are some tips on where to add fenugreek:

• crushed into flour for baking aromatic bread;
• in all complex curry mixtures, where it makes up 15-20% (this is a mandatory component);
• in syrups and sauces for flavoring (for example, as an imitation of maple syrup);
• in soups and meat stews;
• in Indian curries and garam masala (this is one of the main ingredients);
• in drinks, candies, desserts, meat dishes, marinades, in baked goods and puddings;
• sprouted in salads, pasta, vegetable dishes and lentils.

How to make fenugreek tea (helba tea)

Here is the recipe for the famous “Egyptian yellow tea” - a healthy and tasty drink for everyday use:

1. Fenugreek seeds are washed with running cold water.
2. Then pour boiling water (1 cup per two teaspoons of seeds).
3. Place on low heat for about five to seven minutes.

As a result, you will receive a drink with incredible taste and aroma, which is so valued in the East. You can add lemon, milk or honey to it.

How can you replace fenugreek in recipes?

Fenugreek isn't the most commonly available spice, so it's likely that you'll need a substitute. There are several effective and readily available substitutes:

• Mustard will be able to provide the flavor combination needed to replace fenugreek. Yellow mustard seeds need to be slightly warmed in a dry frying pan to make their taste more like fenugreek. If you need to replace fenugreek leaves, you can use mustard greens.
• Curry powder. In many cases, a mixture containing this spice will be a better alternative. It is important to note here that other spices in curry powder may not be suitable for all dishes that require fenugreek.
• Maple syrup. The most successful replacement, as it contains a compound called sotolon, which is responsible for the similarity of taste and aroma of these seasonings.
  When using maple syrup as a fenugreek substitute, it is important to use it sparingly due to the excess sweetness that may be undesirable in many dishes. Add it at the end of cooking, as the aroma may disappear with prolonged processing. Please note that maple syrup can be substituted for both fenugreek leaves and seeds.
• Fennel seeds can be used to replace fenugreek only in as a last resort, since they are sweeter and can easily overwhelm the taste of the dish. They are placed in very small quantities.

So now you have a complete understanding of the application and beneficial properties fenugreek, as well as side effects and contraindications for use. This spice is highly prized for its aroma and therapeutic effect, but abuse of its quantity can cause harm to health. Like many things in life, everything is good in moderation.