Use a lot of fenugreek (methi) in your culinary preparations. Why? For the simple reason that it is so healthy. This wonder herb, a very popular vegetable in the Indian cuisine is a nature’s boon to mankind. Besides, it is so appetizing, light and dry. Rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus and iron in their natural forms, its mineral and vitamin contents are also very high and this is easily assimilated by our body.
Both the leaves and seeds of this bitter tasting vegetable are fit for consumption; the seeds are generally used as a condiment and for flavoring. Research has shown that the regular long term use of methi seeds reduces deposits of fat in the body and lowers cholesterol. However make sure you wash the leaves well before using. Is the goodness of this vegetable just restricted to being a health food? No. It has exceptional medicinal uses and can be used as beauty aid as well.
Medicinal uses and home remedies with Methi
* Methi seeds are nourishing and rejuvenating, with the properties of a stimulant. If you experience fatigue or troubled by backache and other body aches, just eat a teaspoon of methi seeds daily. Also include lots of fenugreek leaves in your diet. This is an age-old tried and tested remedy; it has worked for me. You can try it too.
* Eating a teaspoon of methi seeds or drinking juice of methi seeds (soak methi seeds in water the previous night and then grind it to extract a paste or juice.) the first thing in the morning or an hour before each meal is found to be highly beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. In fact, many naturopaths have ascertained this fact.
* Consuming fenugreek leaves which are a rich source of iron is highly beneficial for those suffering from anemia.
* Applying a paste of methi leaves to the palms and soles of the feet alleviates burning sensation.
* To increase the secretion of milk in nursing mothers, the seeds may be given in the form of gruel (Kanji).
* Add 1 tsp of methi seeds to yoghurt and take this to cure diarrhea and dysentery.
* The powder of methi seeds should also be taken when there is loss of appetite, abdominal distension, gas and flatulence. It also gives respite in colds and fevers. Methi cleanses and detoxifies the body by drawing out waste matter and expelling it.
* It is also beneficial in dyspepsia, vomiting, piles, intestinal worms and other ailments.
* To clear the phlegm and cure coughs, make a decoction of methi leaves. To 1 cup of this decoction, add 1 tsp each of ginger and honey and have it.
* A herbal tea made from fenugreek seeds is highly beneficial in reducing temperature in fevers.
* A poultice made of the leaves can be applied with benefits in external and internal swellings, sprains and burns.
* Consume steamed fenugreek leaves to get relief for your arthritic joints and rheumatism.
* Also consume fenugreek leaves regularly to keep your respiratory system, nervous system, reproductive system and neuromuscular system in a good condition.
One of the better ways to consume methi
The most effective way to eat methi seeds is to sprout them a little, then dry the sprouts, powder them and include in the everyday diet. You can have it in powdered form, as a decoction and herb tea.
Methi as a beauty aid
* Paste of the fresh leaves and coconut milk applied over the scalp is believed to prevent hair-loss, promote hair growth, preserve its natural color, delay graying of hair and make it silky soft.
* Add the powder of methi seeds with coconut oil and massage it on your scalp. Wash it off the next day with cold water. This helps to prevent premature graying of hair.
* A paste of methi leaves mixed with vinegar is good for treating dandruff.
* Applying the paste of fenugreek leaves and turmeric on your face is very good for pimple and blackhead prone skin.
* Make a paste of fenugreek leaves and add boiled milk to it. Applying this to your face delays the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It not just improves the complexion but also makes one look years younger.
