The Greek hay, also known as fenacho or alforvas, is a medicinal plant whose seeds possess digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, and, therefore, can be useful in the treatment of the gastritis and the control of cholesterol levels.
The scientific name of fenugreek is Trigonella foenum-graecum and can be found in the shop of natural products, free fairs or supplement stores in the form of powder, seed or capsule. The price of fenugreek varies according to the place of purchase, quantity and the state in which it is found (whether in powder, seed or capsule), being between R $ 3 and R $ 130, 00.
What is Feno-Greek used for?
Fenugreek has laxative, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, so it can be used in several situations, such as:
- Decrease and control cholesterol and blood glucose levels;
- Controlling anemia;
- Treating gastritis;
- Decrease inflammation;
- Treat cavities and pharyngitis;
- Improve bowel function;
- Relieve the symptoms of menopause;
- Decrease menstrual cramps;
- Stimulate the production of testosterone;
- Increase energy;
- Reduce body fat.
In addition to these applications, fenugreek can be used to help treat scalp problems such as dandruff, hair loss and baldness, as well as promote hydration and accelerate healthy hair growth. See other tips to make hair grow faster.
How to use Feno-Greek
The used parts of fenugreek are the seeds, where the medicinal properties of this plant are usually found. The seeds can be used ground and diluted in milk, infusion or cooked to make tea, capsules, found in natural food stores, and in compressed applications with fennel seed crushed and heated.
- Fenugreek tea for compresses, gargles and vaginal washes: Use 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds and 1 cup of water. Boil the seeds in the water for 10 minutes. Then strain and use the tea in scalp compresses for treatment of dandruff and baldness, gargling for treatment of hoarseness or vaginal washes.
- Fenugreek tea: Use 1 cup of cold water over two teaspoons, leave to stand for 3 hours, then boil the ingredients, strain and drink while warm, 3 times a day for constipation treatment and relief of menopausal symptoms.
- Compress with the seeds of fenugreek to boil: Use 110 g of fenugreek seeds with water or vinegar. Beat in the blender until you get a paste and bring to the fire until it boils. Then spread the pulp still hot on a cloth and apply over the spot of the inflammation until cool by repeating the procedure 3 to 4 times a day.
Possible side effects
Excessive consumption of fenugreek can cause gas, belly bloating and diarrhea, as well as skin irritation when used by people allergic to this plant, so it is important to have guidance from a herbalist on how best to use this plant without adverse effects.
Fenugreek is contraindicated for pregnant women as it can induce labor, nursing mothers and insulin dependent diabetics.
