Fenugreek has been used as a medicine for numerous ailments in both Ayurveda and Siddha, the two most ancient medicine systems from India.
Apart from being used as a medicine, it is a common ingredient many Indian recipes. It adds a unique taste and flavor to the foods, making it more desirable.
In present times fenugreek is found in many commercial products such as soaps and shampoos.
When consumed in its raw form, fenugreek seeds has a very strong bitter taste, and its bitterness stays in your mouth for a long time. So, one of the best ways to reap the benefits of fenugreek is by consuming fenugreek water.
How to prepare fenugreek water?
A glass of warm or lukewarm water, add a 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and leave it overnight or for around 7 to 8 hours.
In the morning filter out the seeds if you do not want to swallow the seeds and drink the water on an empty stomach.
Drinking this water every morning comes with a host of health benefits, read on to know more.
It increases breastmilk production in nursing mothers
There is no denying the fact that breast milk is the best source of vital nutrients for your baby. However, for many new moms, the breastmilk is hard to come by, and you need to depend on the formulas.
Although you can go after certain prescription drugs that can boost your milk production, these drugs can sometimes lead to side effects.
Fenugreek water is your safe bet if you want to increase the breast milk production.
A 14-day study (1) that involved 77 new mothers found that those who drank fenugreek tea every day increased their milk production and also helped their babies gain more weight.
It increases libido in men
Fenugreek gathered more interest among men because it is believed to increase testosterone levels in men.
Instead of consuming expensive supplements for this purpose, you can try drinking a glass of fenugreek water every day to safely increase your libido and interest in your partner.
An 8-week study (2) which involved 30 college-aged men showed that men who took fenugreek supplements every day had elevated levels of testosterone over those who did not, and it also helped them to reduce their fat levels by around 2 percent.
It may help to keep diabetes under control
Many practitioners of alternative medicines systems suggest fenugreek water and fenugreek supplements to diabetics to keep their blood sugar levels under control.
Health research experts believe fenugreek improves insulin function and helps to reduce the blood sugar levels. A study (3) found that people who took fenugreek seeds and fenugreek powder experienced 13.4 percent decreased in their blood sugar levels after four hours.
It helps to reduce cholesterol levels
There are some evidences that indicate fenugreek can reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels, which makes fenugreek water an excellent drink for people with heart problems.
A study (4) found that people who took 50 grams of fenugreek seed powder at lunch and dinner every day for 10 days found a considerable reduction in their bad cholesterol (LDL) and total cholesterol levels.
It aids digestion and prevents acid reflux
Fenugreek water is a safe solution for those who frequently experience heartburn and acid reflux.
Drink a glass of fenugreek water after foods to speed up the digestion and reduce heartburn.
A two-week study (5) found that people who frequently experienced heartburn found their symptoms greatly reduced after consuming fenugreek supplements every day. Health experts believe its effects on digestion and acid reflux is similar to antacid medications.
It may help with weight loss
There are numerous studies that found fenugreek consumption is linked to the reduction in fat intake. It is believed that fenugreek suppresses appetite and effectively reduces the total fat consumption.
Appetite and fat reduction are both linked to weight loss. One 14 day study found that participants who consumed fenugreek every day reduced their fat intake by nearly 17 percent.