Fenugreek Tea

Fenugreek tea is a traditional herbal infusion made from the seeds of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum–graecum), an annual herb of the Fabaceae family cultivated throughout the world in the form of a semi-arid crop. With a distinctive sweet, nutty flavor, the tea has a yellowish-brown hue. Since this caffeine-free herbal tea has several nutritive constituents, it provides lots of health benefits.

History and origin

According to historical evidence, fenugreek herbs were first grown expansively in the gardens of Charlemagne, an emperor of Western Europe in the Medieval period.The seeds were commonly used in Greece, Italy, Egypt, and South Asia to prepare an herbal drink for the treatment of upset stomach and other health problems.

Fenugreek tea benefits: what is it good for

Cough and cold

As an expectorant, it helps to remove mucus, as well as nasal congestions, thereby reducing the urge to cough. It proves useful in relieving the symptoms of sinusitis and laryngitis. Instead of just consuming it, people with a sore throat may choose to gargle with this warm decoction.

Cancer

As shown in scientific studies, this herbal drink has cancer-inhibiting properties. It can prevent the growth of tumors as well as cancer cells without causing any harm to the healthy cells.

Constipation

Due to high amounts of constituent fiber, it promotes digestion and helps in binding the waste products of the body. The herbal tea acts as a natural laxative that triggers contractions of the intestines, which promotes movement of bowels.

Diabetes

It helps to manage diabetes by reducing absorption of glucose, thereby controlling blood sugar levels in the body. Diabetic patients can keep their cholesterol levels under control by drinking fenugreek tea. This in turn, helps to lower the risks for stroke and various heart ailments.

Detoxification

It can provide you with a feeling of well-being since the tea works as a diuretic to expel toxins out of the kidneys.

Production of breast milk

Some scientific results have confirmed an increase in the production of breast milk in lactating mothers due to consumption of fenugreek tea. Therefore, it acts as a remedy for nursing women with limited milk flow.

PMS and menopause

Since the herbal tea can keep estrogen levels under control, it can be consumed by women suffering from PMS and those having the symptoms of menopause. It is considered a much safer alternative to hormonal therapy treatment.

Controlling weight gain

Several clinical studies have shown that consumption of fenugreek seed extracts helps in controlling daily fat intake, consequently preventing further weight gain in overweight men.

Other benefits

For hair loss

It has high amounts of iron, vitamin B, and vitamin C that promote hair growth. To prevent thinning or loss of hair, you can either consume the tea regularly or apply the cooled tea directly on the scalp and hair prior to washing it off after a few minutes.

Relieving skin problems

It can be applied as a poultice for the treatment of skin problems like gout, eczema, abscesses, and boils.

How to make fenugreek tea?

• Place 1-2 teaspoonful of fenugreek seeds, either whole or in powdered form, in a teapot
• Add 2-3 cups of water to the seeds
• Boil the mixture for 2-3 minutes
• Allow the seeds to soak for another 10-15 minutes
• Use a strainer to filter out the mixture
• You can add lemon juice, some ginger roots, and honey to enhance taste

Safety and precaution

Fenugreek tea is safe for consumption when taken as part of a normal diet.

Side effects

Overconsumption may cause bloating, diarrhea, and breathlessness. In hypersensitive people, it can result in severe allergic reactions and facial swelling.

Consumption during pregnancy

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consume fenugreek tea after consulting with their healthcare professional. Its intake during pregnancy may induce uterine contractions, leading to premature labor.

Where to buy fenugreek tea

Fenugreek tea in the form of tea bags, capsules, and seed powders can be purchased online or from local herbal tea stores.