Fenugreek

Fenugreek was quite popular as a medicinal herb during the 19th Century, especially as a key ingredient in Lydia Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, which was taken by many women as a "cure" for PMS. It fell out of fashion and was recently revived when studies proved that it aided in lower blood sugar levels. HOWEVER, FENUGREEK ALSO ENCOURAGES WATER RETENTION, SO PEOPLE WHO HAVE TROUBLE WITH EDEMA SHOULD CAREFULLY WEIGH IN ALL OF THE FACTORS BEFORE USING FENUGREEK.

Lowers Blood Sugar: A study was done in India in which four ounces of Fenugreek was added to the daily diets of people with Type I diabetes for 10 days. After 10 days, their urinary sugar levels fell by 54 percent. (see Prevention on my books list)

Controls Cholesterol: Although fenugreek has not yet been tested on humans, it has been noted to lower the cholesterol in dogs.

Promotes Menstruation: Fenugreek has been shown to stimualte the uterus because it contains a chemical that acts similar to estrogen. It was also an ingredient in Lydia Pinkham's Vegetable Compound.

Other Uses of Fenugreek: arthritis relief and sore throat