Fenugreek

**Fenugreek** (*Trigonella foenum-graecum*) is a fragrant, clover-like herb belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae). It is cultivated worldwide as a semi-arid crop and is used as an herb, a spice, and a vegetable. ### Description * **Plant:** It is an annual plant, growing less than a meter (3 feet) tall, with light green leaves composed of three small leaflets. * **Leaves (Herb):** Known as **Methi** in India, the fresh or dried leaves are used as a vegetable and herb to flavor curries, stews, and bread. * **Seeds (Spice):** The dried, yellow-to-amber-colored seeds are flat rhomboids with a deep furrow. They have a strong, slightly sweet, and somewhat bitter taste, often described as having notes of **maple syrup** or burnt sugar. This distinctive aroma and flavor is due to a chemical compound called **sotolon**. ### Culinary and Medicinal Uses Fenugreek is a common ingredient in the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent, as well as in other parts of Asia and the Mediterranean. * **Culinary Uses:** * **Seeds:** Used whole or powdered in spice blends like **garam masala**, pickles, and various vegetable dishes. They are often lightly roasted to reduce bitterness and enhance flavor. * **Leaves:** The fresh leaves are a popular vegetable, often cooked with potatoes (**aloo methi**). The dried leaves are used for flavoring and garnishing. * **Traditional Medicine and Supplements:** Fenugreek has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda. Today, it is commonly used as a dietary supplement for: * **Blood Sugar Management:** It may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes by slowing sugar absorption and stimulating insulin. * **Increasing Breast Milk Production:** It is often used as a **galactagogue** (a substance that promotes lactation). * **Boosting Testosterone:** Some research suggests that extracts may help raise testosterone levels and improve libido in both men and women. **Note:** When consumed in large amounts (like in supplements), fenugreek can sometimes cause side effects like diarrhea, gas, and a maple syrup odor in sweat and urine.