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Spice Description

Fenugreek is used both as an herb and as a spice in various cuisines. Its seeds are frequently used in curry.

History

India is one of the largest producers of fenugreek seeds. It is called 'methi' in India and mainly grown as green leafy vegetable and its seeds are collected to use in curry dishes.

In India it is mainly cultivated in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Punjab.

It is used in culinary purpose due to its medicinal properties.

Plant Description

It is an herb which has light green leaves which are 30-60 cm tall.

It produces slender beaked pods 10-15 cm long. Each pod contains 10 to 20 small yellowish brown seeds which are oblong and smooth.

Cultivation

This plant grows in cold season at low temperature. It prefers low rainfall and sown in all types of soil but cultivated best in loamy and clayey soil with proper drainage.

Parts Used

Seeds and green leaves are used.

Preparation & Storage

Fenugreek seeds are usually added to curry dishes and whole seeds are used.

It should be stored in tight containers so as to protect it from moisture.

Constituents

Fenugreek seeds contain composition of protein, starch, sugar, mineral, volatile oil, and enzymes. Its leaves and seeds are also rich in calcium, iron, vitamin A and vitamin C.

Culinary Uses

• Fenugreek leaves are used and cooked as green vegetable in homes.
• Its seeds are added to various cuisines to add flavor.

Medicinal Uses

• It is highly valued for its medicinal uses from ancient times.
• Traditionally it is used to treat bronchial problems, tuberculosis, gout, swollen glands, skin problems, flatulence and low libido.
• The seeds are also used as carminative, tonic, diarrhea, and chronic cough, enlargement of liver, spleen, rickets and diabetes.
• It is also said that fenugreek seeds helps to promote milk in lactating mothers.
• In the Middle Ages fenugreek was recommended to men's to cure baldness.

Names

• English- Fenugreek
• Hindi- Methi Dana
• Marathi- Methya
• Kannada- Menthya
• Tamil- Vendayam
• Telugu- Menthulu

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