Fenugreek Tea
A Unique Flavor with Health Benefits
Throughout the Mediterranean region of Europe, fenugreek is used as a culinary staple. Both the seeds and leaves are used to achieve a unique, somewhat peppery flavor. It's also used in Indian cooking as part of curry powder. However, the seeds of the fenugreek plant are also used for their health benefits, which are numerous. Fenugreek tea is composed from these same seeds, and contains a wide array of health boosting properties that are worth taking a look at. This is due to the alkaloids contained in the seeds, as well as a high concentration of fiber. It has also been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, and is used as a women's health supplement due to this.
It's recommended to drink fenugreek tea after meals, because the chemical compounds that make up this herb, including alkaloids such as lysine, help with the digestive process. It also helps slow down the rate of sugar absorption in the bloodstream. For that reason, many people who have diabetes or need to watch their blood sugar levels for some reason might find relief with the use of fenugreek as a part of their daily diet. While studies are underway, some preliminary research shows that fenugreek can also help lower cholesterol, both in those with and without diabetes.
The high fiber content in fenugreek tea is also beneficial for anyone seeking a mild laxative effect, either for weight loss reasons, to help aid the digestive process, or to move toxins out of the system. While it is well known that fenugreek seeds help to clear out the kidneys and liver, not everyone is aware that this plant can also help to expel phlegm from the body. If you feel a blockage in your lungs or have the general stuffy symptoms of a cold, then this tea might be a good choice for you.
To make fenugreek tea at home, you can either use teabags or dried seeds. Add either one tablespoon of seeds or the tea bag to a cup of boiling water, and let steep for as long as you wish to achieve the proper flavor content. If you are using seeds, you may need to steep for far longer. Some say that 45 minutes is a good time to shoot for, to unlock the chemical compounds within the seeds and give yourself a more fragrant and potent brew. A far faster way to prepare fenugreek beverages is simply to use a prepackaged teabag.