Introduction
This article explores the health benefits of fenugreek seeds soaked in water supported by Ayurveda and Research.
Fenugreek seeds are small, golden seeds with a slightly bitter taste. They are obtained from the Trigonella foenum-graecum medicinal plant which is used in Ayurvedic medicinal preparations.
The seeds and green leaves of Fenugreek are widely consumed in food and herbal medicine. India is the major producer of Fenugreek and the consumer for culinary and medicinal uses.
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Nutritional Profile of Fenugreek Seeds
As per USDA, the nutritional profile of fenugreek seeds is given below
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Nutrient Amount Energy 323 kcal Protein 23 g Carbohydrate 58.4 g Fiber 24.6 g Calcium 176 mg Magnesium 191 mg Phosphorus 296 mg Potassium 770 mg
Fenugreek seeds also contain phospholipids, glycolipids, oleic acid, linolenic acid choline, Iron, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and Niacin.
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water Overnight
- Fenugreek seeds when soaked overnight in water, absorb the water, swell, and become soft and easy to digest.
- The soaking process activates the seeds and allows them to release their nutrients into the water enhancing their bioavailability.
- The compounds present in methi seeds such as soluble fiber, mucilage, and saponins dissolve into water enhancing the medical properties of methi seed water.
- This fenugreek seed water has potential health benefits for health conditions such as indigestion, diabetes, cardiac health, and many more.
How to Prepare Fenugreek Water
- Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach.
- If you forget to soak the methi seeds at night, you can add one teaspoon of the seeds to the boiling water and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Later strain the water and drink it warm.
- Initially start by soaking 1 teaspoon of seeds and gradually increase up to one tablespoon of methi seeds if required.
- You can even swallow the seeds along with water or chew them without straining as soaking reduces the bitterness of the seeds making them more palatable.
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water
Fenugreek seeds commonly called methi seeds are known for their medicinal properties. Studies have proven that fenugreek seeds are effective in fever, vomiting, dyspepsia, colic pain, diabetes, anorexia, cough, and bronchitis.
Fenugreek seeds are also used as antifungal, antibacterial, wound healing, blood glucose lowering, cholesterol-lowering, and antitumor properties. Both seeds and their leaves are consumed as remedies for various health conditions.
1. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Hair
- Fenugreek seeds or methi seeds are highly effective against hair fall, hair thinning, dryness of hair, and dandruff. Fenugreek seeds are a good source of protein, nicotinic acid, and lecithin that make our hair healthy, strong, lustrous, and bouncy.
- When taken consistently, methi seed water helps strengthen damaged hair roots, enhance hair growth, and rebuild hair follicles.
- Soak the seeds in water overnight, grind them to make a paste, and add curd to it to make a hair mask.
- Apply on the hair, leave it for about 20 to 30 minutes, and rinse it thoroughly.
- This hair mask nourishes the scalp, reduces dandruff, and promotes hair growth.
2. Benefits of Fenugreek Seed Water for Skin
- Fenugreek is beneficial in burns, boils, abscesses, eczema, and edema due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fenugreek seeds possess antioxidant properties that help to repair damaged skin cells, support new cell production, tone the outer layer of skin, minimize the appearance of fine lines, and act as a natural anti-aging agent.
- It protects the skin from UV rays, and enhances your complexion, giving you healthy and glowing skin.
3. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Diabetes
- Studies suggest that fenugreek can be beneficial for people suffering from Type 2 Diabetes or pre-diabetes. These seeds contain a soluble fiber called galactomannan, which slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and sugar into the blood.
- Fenugreek seed water has the potential to improve metabolic symptoms, lower blood sugar levels, and improve glucose tolerance.
4. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Digestive Health
- Methi seed water is an effective treatment, for gastritis, and indigestion. Studies suggest fenugreek seeds contain a good amount of mucilage, and soothe digestive inflammation by coating the stomach and intestine lining.
- It lowers the discomfort caused due to indigestion or bloating. There are compounds present in fenugreek seeds that stimulate your digestive enzymes and detoxify your liver.
5. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Heart Health.
- Fenugreek seeds are rich in potassium, effectively controlling blood pressure by combating the effects of sodium.
- These seeds contain a compound called saponins which is known for cholesterol-lowering results. Research says saponins inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines which helps to reduce overall cholesterol levels in the body reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Fenugreek seeds can be used as a heart tonic. Incorporating methi seed water regularly into your routine can reduce the chance of heart attacks.
6. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Female
- Fenugreek seeds have potential health benefits, especially for women in postpartum conditions, menopause, or having menstrual discomfort.
- Methi seeds are well known for their galactagogue properties. They contain a compound that stimulates milk production in lactating mothers.
- Incorporating fenugreek seed water into the routine can be effective in relieving menstrual cramps and tenderness in the breast, mood swings, and discomfort due to its calming effect on the hormonal system. Fenugreek helps improve overall reproductive health.
- Regular intake of methi seed water is beneficial in treating the symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, insomnia, and anxiety.
7. Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water for Males
- Fenugreek seeds have the potential to boost testosterone levels which play an important role in body functions in males. Studies show that it can improve sexual ability, sperm count, and sperm motility in men.
8. Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water Overnight for Weight Loss
- Studies have shown that Fenugreek seeds are effective in reducing weight. It contains fibers that promote a feeling of fullness, reduce appetite, and avoid overeating.
- Fenugreek burns accumulated fat present in the body more efficiently. It improves bowel movement, reduces flatulence, increases fecal mass, and lowers the chances of constipation making defecation smooth and easy.
- Fenugreek seed water improves your metabolism and takes care of your digestive health which are key reasons to aid in the weight loss journey.
9. Anti-Cancer
- Fenugreek possesses a cytotoxic property, which has shown to be useful in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Compounds present in methi seeds exhibit an inhibitory effect on cell division in tumor cells.
- Methi seeds possess an antioxidant property that helps combat free radicals reducing oxidative stress that may lead to cancer cell formation.
- Fenugreek seeds have the potential to be used as a protective herb for complementary therapy in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- Fenugreek seeds contain a bioactive compound called diosgenin, which is an anticancer agent that possesses the ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of malignant cells including bone, breast, colon, and prostate cancers.
How Many Fenugreek Seeds Per Day
Start with 1 teaspoon (5 grams )of fenugreek seeds, and gradually you can increase up to 10 grams depending on how your body adapts it.
Precaution
- Although fenugreek seed water provides various health benefits, sensitivity or excessive intake may result in certain negative effects such as bloating, cramping, gas, and dyspepsia.
- Fenugreek seeds have the potential to stimulate uterine contraction. So, it’s better to avoid it during pregnancy.
- Excessive consumption may lower blood sugar levels. Thus consume methi seeds in moderation if you are suffering from diabetes.
- Sometimes it can cause allergic reactions like rashes, swelling, or difficulty in breathing for those who are particularly allergic to methi seeds.
- People suffering from thyroid issues should avoid consuming fenugreek seeds as it may cause thyroid imbalance.
- Moderation is the key to optimal results. Anything consumed in excess may lead to discomfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the benefits of Fenugreek Seeds Soaked In Water can significantly enhance overall well-being. From improving digestion and regulating blood sugar levels to supporting weight management and promoting healthy skin, these small seeds pack a powerful punch. Their rich nutritional profile, combined with their ease of preparation, makes them an accessible and effective addition to a balanced diet. By incorporating the practice of soaking fenugreek seeds in water, individuals can unlock their potential and enjoy the various advantages they bring to health and wellness.
FAQ’s
Q1. What happens if we drink fenugreek water daily?
Ans: Drinking fenugreek water regularly can improve overall health such as
- Aids in digestion
- Boost metabolism
- Supports weight loss
- Stabilize blood sugar levels
- Detoxify the body
- Lowers cholesterol levels
- Supports heart health
Q2. Is the fenugreek hot or cold for the body?
Ans: According to Ayurveda, fenugreek seeds are hot potency herbs.
Q3. What is the best way to consume fenugreek?
Ans: Fenugreek seeds can be consumed in various ways depending on your health goals such as
- Soaked fenugreek seed water
- Fenugreek tea
- Incorporating methi seed into the cuisine
- Fenugreek powder
- Fenugreek sprouts
- Fenugreek oil
- Fenugreek capsules
Q4. Who cannot drink fenugreek water?
Ans: Fenugreek seeds are generally safe for many people but for certain health conditions one should prevent drinking fenugreek water such as
- People who are allergic to fenugreek seeds
- Avoid during pregnancy as it induces uterine contraction
References
METHI A WONDERFUL HERB AND ITS THERAPEUTIC USES: A PHARMACOGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVE
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/1456747854.pdf
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): A Review of Health Beneficial Physiological Effects
The multifaceted potential of fenugreek seeds: From health benefits to food and nanotechnology applications
Medicinal Properties of Fenugreek: A Review
https://openbiologyjournal.com/VOLUME/11/ELOCATOR/e187503622302220/FULLTEXT/
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) As a Valuable Medicinal Plant
https://www.ijabbr.com/article_7851_bbd8fa7701b237d7746306a9df24e736.pdf
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/food-details/171324/nutrients
