One of the oldest medicinal herbs, fenugreek means "Greek hay." It was called that because it was used to scent moldy or insect-damaged fodder in order to make it palatable. The plant was used to heal animals long before the seeds became a popular human remedy. Sick animals that refused to eat would eat hay treated with fenugreek. Mongrels that were fed a standard diet supplemented with fenugreek seed meal for eight weeks had significantly reduced serum cholesterol levels. Today, it is often still used to flavor cattle and horse feed.

Fenugreek may be the only herb used as a weapon of war. During the Roman siege of Jerusalem, fenugreek, added to boiling oil, was used to coat ladders so that climbing attackers would slip off. It is its gelatinous quality that soothes upset stomachs, sore throats, inflamed lungs and other tissue.

Considered an aphrodisiac in earlier times, fenugreek was an ingredient in Lydia Pinkham’s renowned Vegetable Compound, a remedy for female ailments. In China, the herb was useful in treating kidney disease, hernia, impotence, gastric problems, fevers and mourning sickness. Ayurvedic physicians in India use it for arthritis, bronchitis and digestive problems. As a popular aid for public speakers and singers, it clears mucous from the throat.

Thought to restore blood sugar balance, it can be helpful in regulating insulin in diabetic conditions. It may also be a key remedy for lowering high cholesterol and strengthening the heart. Seeds made into a gruel may stimulate mother’s milk production. Fenugreek may also assist in the relief of:

As a culinary ingredient, fenugreek smells like celery. It is used to flavor artificial maple syrup and is a key ingredient in Indian curry mixtures. Because of its pleasant aroma and taste, it is very palatable tea, cereal and sprouts for salads and soups. It is also a wonderful addition to yeast breads.

One of the disappointments with fenugreek is that it may take high dosages to achieve desired results. Since there is a possibility of allergic reactions, particularly in those allergic to legumes such as chickpeas, it is advisable to use caution.

The Coop carries fenugreek in seeds, tea, compounds and tinctures.

Soak 8 tsp fenugreek seeds in 4 cups cold water for 5 hours. Boil 2 minutes. Strain and flavor with peppermint oil, lemon extract or honey. Drink at least 1 cup per day several months before the onset of hay fever season.