Fenugreek

Trigonella foenum-graecum

Fenugreek is a member of the Leguminosae family indigenous to the Mediterranean area and now primarily cultivated in India, China and the Middle East. Its Latin name means “Greek Hay” which is a reference to its use to fortify cattle feed due its highly nutritive properties. Traditional Chinese Medicine classifies (hu lu ba) as a yang tonic; especially for kidney yang deficiency. In Ayurvedic Medicine it is called Chandrika or Medhika. In European folk health the ground seed was eaten as a meal in convalescence and to improve the assimilation of nutrients as well as for its gentle bulk laxative effects. It has been recommended by midwives for healthy support of lactation during the breastfeeding months.