Fenugreek seed extract, or Bird’s Foot, is also known by its Latin name Trigonella foenum-graecum. It has been used in homeopathic medicine for more than a thousand years by various cultures, such as the Chinese and the Greeks. It is believed to lower cholesterol, help with digestion, and increase a nursing mother’s breast milk supply. Fenugreek seed extract is also believed to work as a weight loss aide.
As part of the bean family, Leguminosae, fenugreek has long, thin stems that can grow to 24 inches (61 cm) in height. It has light yellow or white flowers and slender bean pods that contain approximately 20 light brown seeds. The oil from the seeds is commonly extracted for homeopathic remedies. In addition, the seeds are often dried and used as a spice for curry-flavored foods.
The benefits of fenugreek seed extract are wide ranging. For example, many practitioners recommend it to people to aid in digestion. It is believed to help treat indigestion, stomach ulcers, intestinal spasms, and diarrhea. Some practitioners claim it will treat irritations or disorders affecting the skin, such as boils, eczema, and ulcers as well.
Homeopathic medicine practitioners who specialize in women’s health issues often recommend fenugreek seed extract as well. For example, it is believed to help a breastfeeding mother increase her supply of breast milk. In addition, some practitioners believe that the extract may help women lower their risk of breast cancer.
Scientific research has indicated that fenugreek seed extract may also be useful in lowering cholesterol. It is also believed to lower triglyceride levels as well. In addition, people with diabetes are often encouraged by homeopathic practitioners to use the extract to regulate the glucose levels in their bloodstream.
Many practitioners claim that fenugreek seed extract works to help people lose weight. Since it aids in digestion, it is thought to help detoxify the body. In addition, some people claim it promotes weight loss by slowing down food absorption, and thereby, controlling the appetite.
The remedy is generally recognized as safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration, but there are certain groups of people who should not use fenugreek seed extract. For example, pregnant women should probably avoid it, since reports have indicated it may stimulate the uterus. Although it is sometimes recommended for nursing mothers, the effect of the drug has not been studied on nursing babies. In addition, it should not be used by anyone using an anticoagulant pharmaceutical drug.
There have been some side effects reported by people using fenugreek. For example, some people have experienced mild stomach cramps. In addition, if an overdose of the remedy occurs, hypoglycemia is possible.
