Methi (fenugreek)

Methi (fenugreek) is a commonly used ingredient in Indian recipes and is consumed in both its forms --leaf and seed. The leaves are bitter, but when tender the bitterness is subdued. The leaves are used very commonly in curries and parathas. The seeds are powdered or used as whole spices in marination and curries.

The benefits of methi are abundant. Here's your checklist:

- The leaves have a cooling effect and are beneficial in the treatment of anaemia and inflammations, both internal and external.

- It is rich in vitamins, minerals, iron and calcium in their natural organic forms, which are easily assimilated by the body.

- It is a beneficial herbal food for weakness, particularly of the nervous, reproductive and respiratory systems.



It speeds up the metabolism and tone the neuro-muscular system in particular .

- Methi seeds are heat producing, nourishing and rejuvenating, with the properties of a stimulant. If you experience a feeling of tiredness and bodyache, just eat a teaspoon of methi seeds daily.

- Research has shown that the regular long term use of methi seeds reduces deposits of fat in the body and lowers cholesterol.

- Eating a teaspoon of methi seeds an hour before each meal or early in the morning helps in the treatment of diabetes.

- The seeds are a digestive aid in cases of abdominal distention, gas, malabsorption, pain and heaviness in the stomach. Methi cleanses and detoxifies the body by drawing out waste matter and expelling it.

- Daily consumption can help make the back muscles strong and alleviates backaches.

- Methi is useful in the treatment of respiratory problems such as colds, coughs, bronchitis, asthma and gives respite in associated fevers.

How To Consume: The most effective way to eat methi seeds is to sprout them a little, then dry the sprouts, powder them and include in the diet daily. The powder of the seeds can be taken alone or as decoction and drunk like a herb tea.

Precaution: Since methi seeds are heat generating, they should be used more during the winter and the monsoon than in the summer months.