The botanical name of Fenugreek is Trigonella foenum-graecum. This annual plant comes under the Fabaceae family. The leaves of the fenugreek plant have three small oval-shaped leaflets with narrow ends. This semiarid crop is cultivated worldwide in huge amounts.
The parts like – leaves and seeds of the fenugreek plant have been utilized since the ancient period as a culinary ingredient. These parts are also common ingredients of Indian subcontinent dishes. Generally, the seeds are used in very small quantities. The colour of fenugreek seed is yellow to amber.
There are no such reports through which it can be proved that the seeds of the fenugreek plant have noticeable therapeutic properties, but these are sold like dietary supplements. Fenugreek is commonly used to prepare traditional medicines. But a high amount of its intake may lead to allergic reactions.
From the article below, you will get so much information about Fenugreek, including Fenugreek in Tamil, its cost, health benefits of Fenugreek, its types, availability, popularity, recipes, nutritional value of Fenugreek, and many more.
| English name | Fenugreek |
| Tamil name | Vendhayam or Ventaya Vitaikal |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Genus | Trigonella |
| Species | T. foenum-graecum |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Subfamily | Faboideae |
| Order | Fabales |
Fenugreek in Tamil name
Vendhayam or Ventaya Vitaikal is the Tamil name of fenugreek. Suppose you want to get fenugreek seed in India’sIndia’s local or rural Tamil-telling areas like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, etc.
In that case, you can’t make them understand with the English name. You have to use the local name Vendhayam or Ventaya Vitaikal for better communication between you and the local people.
But if you are in the township or city area, you can use the English name Fenugreek. Most people, shops, and restaurants in the city area know the popular name Fenugreek.
Different and popular Fenugreek names in India
Fenugreek has different names in different languages of India. Some of those are –
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| Hindi, Punjabi, Odia, Bengali, Urdu | Methi |
| Tamil | Venthayam or Vendayam |
| Marathi | Methya |
| Telugu | Menthulu |
| Kannada | Menthya |
Health benefits of Fenugreek
According to several types of research, it is proven that there are so many health benefits of Fenugreek you can get by consuming it regularly in the right quantity; some of them are –
1. Fenugreek has a good impact on breastmilk production
Your baby needs breast milk for its development because breast milk is one of the great sources of nutrition. In some cases, breastfeeding mothers struggle for sufficient milk production. So many prescribed drugs are available in the meditational market to boost breast milk production.
But according to many researchers, Fenugreek is a safer and more natural alternative to those drugs.
According to 14 days of tudy, based on 78 new mothers, it was found that there was an increase in breastmilk production in them by drinking fenugreek seeds in herbal tea. It helped to gain weight in the babies.
According to another study in 2011 – 66, mothers were split into three batches. The first batch received fenugreek tea, and the second and third batched received a placebo and nothing, respectively.
The pumped breast milk volume in the first and second batches increased by 73 millilitres and 34 millilitres, respectively. But the third batch has no such increments.
According to the same study, the result of supplements and fenugreek herbal tea are almost the same. But without any guidelines from your healthcare professional, don’tdon’t add any kind of milk production boosters to your diet.
2. Fenugreek helps to boost testosterone levels in men
Using fenugreek supplements is the most common case to boost testosterone in men. According to some studies, Fenugreek helps to increase libido and testosterone levels.
According to research, if a man intakes 300 mg of Fenugreek for eight weeks ( twice a day ) with resistance training, it leads to an eye-catching increment in testosterone. That person can also experience a decrement in body fat without losing muscle strength.
According to another study on 30 males for six weeks – they took a fenugreek extract supplement of 600 mg along with zinc, vitamin B6, and magnesium to get a result of changes in libido and sexual function. Most of the men said they felt the improvement and strength increment in their sexual functions.
3. Fenugreek helps to control blood sugar levels and diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolic condition, and Fenugreek helps to aid it. According to a study, some people suffer from type – 2 diabetes. They took a little ( 5 grams ) of fenugreek seed powder for two months and twice daily.
They experienced decreased belly fat, blood sugar level, a long-term blood sugar control maker, haemoglobin A1c, and body mass index.
You can get high fibre content from both Fenugreek seeds or the powder of seeds. It is very beneficial for people without diabetes and those with high sugar levels by controlling their blood sugar levels.
According to a result of a study, some people intake fenugreek powder by replacing 10% of refined wheat flour in flatbreads and buns. They witnessed a significant reduction in blood sugar levels in their body.
Some other health benefits of Fenugreek are – fenugreek sed helps to cure many types of health issues. But many of them do not have much strong evidence.
4. Fenugreek helps to boost weight loss
The seeds of Fenugreek help you to feel full for a long time because it helps to suppress the appetite. This process helps stop you from overeating and starts the process of weight loss.
According to a study in 2015, nine Korean overweighted females drank a fenugreek or fennel or placebo tea before dinner or lunch. Those women who drank fenugreek tea reported feeling fuller and less hungry compared to those who drank fennel and placebo tea. The fibre content of fenugreek seed is generally responsible for the fullness of feeling.
5. Fenugreek helps to reduce inflammation
Fenugreek seeds have substantial levels of antioxidants. The antioxidant property makes it a great anti-inflammatory agent. According to a study in 2012 on mice, it is suggested that fenugreek seeds have high antioxidant flavonoid content. It helps to decrease inflammation levels.
6. Fenugreek helps to reduce the risk of blood pressure and heart conditions
The herb Fenugreek helps to improve blood pressure and regulate cholesterol levels. This process helps to improve heart health and reduce developed heart issues. It is hard to digest dietary fibre-rich foods.
Fenugreek seeds have 48% of dietary fibre. Dietary fibre generates a viscous gel in the intestines. This gel makes the digestion process hard for fats and sugars.
7. Fenugreek helps to relieve pain
Fenugreek seeds have been used in traditional medicine preparation for pain relief. According to some research, Fenugreek has some compounds known as alkaloids. It helps the brain to receive pain by blocking sensory receptors.
According to a study in 2014 based on 51 women who were going through painful periods, they took fenugreek seed powder capsules on the first three days of their period ( three times per day ) for three months. Their period experience was better than previous. They faced fewer symptoms, and the duration of pain was shorter.
some photo of fenugreek seeds
Side effects of Fenugreek seed
There are some side effects of Fenugreek by consuming it regularly. Such as –
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhoea
- Headaches
- The odour from breast milk, sweat, and urine
- Dizziness
- Allergic reactions to Fenugreek are rare, but some people may face this problem.
- Fenugreek seeds have some compounds that may lead to birth abnormalities. So it is better to avoid Fenugreek during pregnancy.
- People who are suffering from hormone-sensitive cancer should also avoid Fenugreek because it can act like estrogen and have a negative impact on the body.
- Generally, any ill person should take the doctor’sdoctor’s advice first and then add Fenugreek to his diet. They should take it cautiously or can avoid it.
- Generally, Fenugreek has no negative impact while interacting with many drugs. But some herbs interact with Fenugreek may lead to side effects. So it is best not to intake fenugreek supplements with any other drugs.
Nutritional value of Fenugreek
The nutritional value you can get from 100 grams of fenugreek seeds is –
| Nutrients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Energy | 323 kcal |
| Protein | 23 grams |
| Dietary fibers | 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 58 grams |
| Water | 8.8 grams |
| Fat | 6.4 grams |
| Minerals | Quantity | % of the daily value |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc | 2.5 mg | 26% |
| Sodium | 67 mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 770 mg | 16% |
| Phosphorus | 296 mg | 42% |
| Manganese | 1.23 mg | 59% |
| Magnesium | 191 mg | 54% |
| Iron | 34 mg | 262% |
| Calcium | 176 mg | 18% |
| Vitamins | Quantity | % of the daily value |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B1 ( thiamine ) | 0.322 mg | 28% |
| Vitamin B2 ( riboflavin ) | 0.366 mg | 31% |
| Vitamin B3 ( niacin ) | 1.64 mg | 11% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg | 46% |
| Vitamin B9 ( folate ) | 57 micrograms | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 3 mg | 4% |
The fenugreek plant seeds contain a healthy nutritional profile, including a good amount of minerals and fibres.
You can get 323 kcal of food energy, 23% protein, 9% of water, 6% fat, 58% carbohydrates, and 40% of calcium of the daily value from 100 grams of fenugreek seeds. The seeds contain dietary minerals like manganese and iron, dietary fibres, protein, and vitamin B.
You can get the nutritional value of Fenugreek from 11 grams or one tablespoon of seeds –
Protein – 3 grams
Fibre – 3 grams
Fat – 1 gram
Carbs – 6 grams
Manganese – 6% of the daily value
Iron – 21% of the daily value
Magnesium – 5% of the daily value
Cost of Fenugreek in Tamil areas
The price of Fenugreek may vary depending on the variety, quality, brand, buying place, and packaging. Rs 150 to Rs 400 is the average cost of 1 kg of fenugreek seed in India. In Kerala, you can buy 1 kg fenugreek by spending around Rs 140 to Rs 200 approximately.
The cost of organic Fenugreek or Methi with no artificial colour and flavour is generally more. The average cost of Fenugreek in Andhra Pradesh is around Rs 359 per kg, which may rise to Rs 640.
Popularity and availability of Fenugreek in Tamil areas ( Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, etc.)
India is known as one of the major fenugreek cultivators worldwide. It is also one of the Fenugreek natives. India ranks itself at th prime position among the leading fenugreek-growing countries by producing huge amounts of the crop.
The availability of Fenugreek in India is insane. 80% of the total Fenugreek in India is cultivated in Rajasthan. Besides Rajasthan, Chattishgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat produce sufficient amounts of Fenugreek.
These states export Fenugreek to other states of India in huge amounts. So India, including South India, never ever faces a lack of Fenugreek.
Because of so many health benefits and various uses, the people of India love to use Fenugreek in different ways. South Indian people love to use Fenugreek as a Tadka ingredient in their special dishes like Sambar and Chatnies because of its nice aroma.
Popular Recipes of fenugreek in Tamil areas
You can use Fenugreek as a spice ( seed form ), herb ( fresh or dried leaves ), or vegetable ( microgreens, sprouts, and fresh leaves ). The seeds are used in the Indian subcontinent’ssubcontinent’s cuisines.
You can use the powder or the whole seed in the preparation of dal, vegetable dishes, pickles, sambar powder, and spice mixes like Panch Phoran. You can also roast the fenugreek seeds before using them in any dish to enhance their aroma and flavour.
You can use fenugreek seed in India subcontinents, Iranian cuisine, Armenian cuisine, Georgian cuisine, Egyptian, Turkish, and Moroccan cuisines, etc.
some popular dishes of Fenugreek are – Potato fenugreek or Aloo Methi, Basturma, Kuku Sabzi, Ghormeh fenugreek sabzi, Methi Dana Sabzi, fenugreek leaf Pokoda, fenugreek Dal, Methi Paratha, fenugreek fish masala, Methi chicken curry, fresh fenugreek rice, etc.
Final verdict
Fenugreek seeds have been used for centuries to treat health issues ranging from low testosterone to unstable blood sugar levels. Because the seeds are rich in dietary minerals like manganese and iron, dietary fibres, protein, and vitamin B, they provide many health benefits.
Still, it is not proven that they can cure any serious health condition. Especially pregnant women and chronic disease patients should consult with reputable doctors before adding Fenugreek to their regular diet.
This article is all about fenugreek seed. You can get all kinds of information about Fenugreek from the above article, like – fenugreek in Tamil name, their cost, health benefits of Fenugreek, its types, availability, popularity, recipes, nutritional value of Fenugreek, and many more.
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the health benefits of Fenugreek?
1. Fenugreek has a good impact on breastmilk production
2. Fenugreek helps to boost testosterone levels in men
3. Fenugreek helps to control blood sugar levels and diabetes
4. Fenugreek helps to boost weight loss
5. Fenugreek helps to reduce inflammation
6. Fenugreek helps to reduce the risk of blood pressure and heart conditions
7. Fenugreek helps relieve pain
Fenugreek is also used for other health issues, such as ulcers, open wounds, boils, menopause, painful menstruation, arthritis, low exercise performance, muscle pain, childbirth pain, etc.
2. How does Fenugreek help to boost testosterone levels in men?
Using fenugreek supplements is the most common case to boost testosterone in men. According to some studies, Fenugreek helps to increase libido and testosterone levels.
According to research, if a man intakes 300 mg of Fenugreek for eight weeks ( twice a day ) with resistance training, it leads to an eye-catching increment in testosterone. That person can also experience a decrement in body fat without losing muscle strength.
According to another study on 30 males for six weeks – they took a fenugreek extract supplement of 600 mg along with zinc, vitamin B6, and magnesium to get a result of changes in libido and sexual function.
Most of the men said they felt the improvement and strength increment in their sexual functions.
3. Are there any side effects of Fenugreek?
1. Some side effects of fenugreek seeds are – Stomach upset, Diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, Odor from breast milk, sweat, urine, etc.
2. Allergic reactions to Fenugreek are rare, but some people may face this problem.
3. Fenugreek seeds have some compounds that may lead to birth abnormalities. So it is better to avoid Fenugreek during pregnancy.
4. People suffering from hormone-sensitive cancer should also avoid Fenugreek because it can act like estrogen and negatively impact the body.
5. Generally, any ill person should take the doctor’sdoctor’s advice first and then add Fenugreek to his diet. They should take it cautiously or can avoid it.
6. Generally, Fenugreek has no negative impact while interacting with many drugs. But some herbs interact with Fenugreek may lead to side effects. So it is best not to intake fenugreek supplements with any other drugs.
4. What are the different dishes you can prepare by using Fenugreek?
You can use fenugreek seed in India subcontinents, Iranian cuisine, Armenian cuisine, Georgian cuisine, Egyptian, Turkish, and Moroccan cuisines, etc.
some popular dishes of Fenugreek are – Potato fenugreek or Aloo Methi, Basturma, Kuku Sabzi, Ghormeh fenugreek sabzi, Methi Dana Sabzi, fenugreek leaf Pokoda, fenugreek Dal, Methi Paratha, fenugreek fish masala, Methi chicken curry, fresh fenugreek rice, etc.
