METHI (Fenugreek) - Trigonella Foenum-Graecum

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an annual plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. It produces small, yellowish-white flowers and oblong, brown seeds that have a distinct bitter taste and strong aroma. The leaves, seeds, and sprouts of fenugreek are used in both culinary and medicinal applications.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Trigonella
Species: Trigonella foenum-graecum

Common Names

English: Fenugreek
Sanskrit: Methika
Hindi: Methi
Tamil: Vendhayam
Telugu: Mentulu
Bengali: Methi
Marathi: Methi

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

Blood Sugar Control - Contains galactomannan and 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which help regulate blood glucose levels.

Digestive Health - Acts as a natural fiber source, aiding digestion and relieving constipation.

Lactation Support - Traditionally used as a galactagogue to enhance breast milk production in nursing mothers.

Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Benefits - Rich in flavonoids and alkaloids, providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Cholesterol Management - Helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining heart health.

Phytochemical Constituents

Alkaloids: Trigonelline, Choline

Saponins: Diosgenin, Yamogenin

Flavonoids: Quercetin, Luteolin

Steroidal Compounds: Fenugreekine, Coumarin

Proteins & Fibers: Galactomannan

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India.

Sharangdhar Samhita, Chapter on Herbal Remedies.

Basch, E., Ulbricht, C., Kuo, G., Szapary, P., & Smith, M. (2003). "Therapeutic applications of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): A review." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 85(1), 1-9.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Acharya, S.N., Thomas, J.E., & Basu, S.K. (2008). "Fenugreek: An old medicinal herb with diverse applications." Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 52(1), 37-52.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.