FENUGREEK Extract
(Trigonella foenumgracaecum)
Properties: Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-spasmodic, Aphrodisiac,
Aromatic, Astringent, Carminative, Demulcent, Emmenagogue, Emollient,
Expectorant, Galactogogue, Hormonal, Hypoglycemic, Hypotensive,
Laxative (bulk), Mucilant, Nutritive, Parasiticide, Stimulatn,
Stomachic, Tonic, Vulnerary
Parts Used: Seed
Historical Uses:
One of the oldest known medicinal herbs, Fenugreek was used by
the ancient Egyptians and Greeks (Hypocrates) for respiratory
problems, and for at least a thousand years has been used in Chinese
medicine to treat the kidney meridian. It was also considered
a restorative, and so given to people recovering from a variety
of illnesses.
Its use in Britain demonstrates its value as a vulnerary, healing
and reducing inflammation in conditions such as wounds, boils,
sores, fistulas and tumors. It can be taken to help bronchitis
and gargled to ease sore throats. Its bitterness
explains its role in soothing disturbed digestion.
It is a strong stimulator of milk production in mothers,
for which it is perfectly safe, and has a reputation of stimulating
development of the breasts.
Its warm spicy flavor gently enters the lymphatics and cleans
them. After using Fenugreek for a few weeks, a person usually
can detect the fain spicy aroma of Fenugreek on the surface of
the skin, indicating how it permeates the body tissues with its
gentle cleansing action. Combines well with Knitbonr (Comfrey)
to form a combination which soothes its action still further.
Recent Scientific Findings:
"Fenugreek is rich in steroid saponins, expecially diosgenin.
French researchers found that Fenugreek reduced blood glucose
and plasma cholesterol levels in diabetic dogs. Human experiments
confirmed the animal research. Defatted Fenugreek seed powder
was added to the diet of diabetic patients and served with both
lunch and dinner. This resulted in a 54% reduction in urinary
glucose.
Blood sugar levels decreased. Cholesterol was also significantly
reduced.
Another study with non-insulin dependent diabetics produced similar
results.
Powdered Fenugreek seed soaked in water significantly reduced
glucose levels and lowered plasma insulin.
These studies indicate that Fenugreek may be beneficial in the
treatment of diabetes." (Michael A. Weiner, PhD, and
Janet A Weiner, Herbs that Heal. Mill Valley, CA: Quantum Books,
1994, p. 153)
Dosage: 40 drops three times per day of either
Fenugreek Extract alone, or of the combined Fenugreek and Knitbone
Extracts.
