Trigonella foenum-graecum
Common names: Fenugreek, Greek Clover, Greek Hay
Family: Fabaceae
Parts used: Dried seeds
Habitat: Native to Asia and naturalised in much of southern Europe, will grow easily in most garden soil.
Constituents: Steroidal saponins, including diosgenin (up to 0.9%), yamogenin and others. Alkaloids including trigonelline. Mucilage (up to 30%), volatile oils and flavonoids including vitexin, quercetin, luteolin and naringenin. Vitamins A, C, D, B1, B2, nicacin; iron, calcium, phosphorous and fibre.
Actions: Hypoglycaemic, Hypolipidaemic, Laxative, Demulcent, Expectorant, Galactagogue, Nutritive, Anti-pyretic, Orexigenic topically, Emollient, Vulnerary.
History: Well documented use as a medicinal and culinary plant in ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian and Persian traditions.
Traditional and current uses:
• To increase breastmilk production (usually within 24-72hrs)
• To reduce blood sugar and lipids
• To improve glucose tolerance in sub-clinical diabetes or alongside diabetes treatments
• Bronchitis
• Dyspepsia
• Gastritis
• Constipation
• Historically as a poultice: boils, gout, minor wounds and ulcers.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.