Fenugreek: An Ayurvedic Wonder Herb for Women's Health
I discovered fenugreek the week I gave birth, it was the main ingredient in a tea given to me to help my milk come in and I was instantly intrigued about its benefits in general. With some research I discovered that is goes far beyond just lactation and when I started losing my hair last year to covid hair-loss, this is one of the magical ingredients I introduced back into my diet and it has stuck ever since! Read below for just a short intro into the benefits of this amazing plant:
In the realm of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, fenugreek holds a significant place as an incredible herb with numerous health benefits. This versatile plant, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, has been treasured for centuries due to its Ayurvedic-based uses and remarkable effects on women's health. Lets dive into how fenugreek can help with your beauty routine and explore its Ayurvedic roots and its impact on women's well-being.
1. Understanding Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is a herbaceous plant primarily cultivated in South Asia and the Mediterranean region. It possesses a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine, where it is prized for its medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic properties. Fenugreek seeds and leaves are the most commonly utilized parts of the plant and contain potent bioactive compounds responsible for its therapeutic effects.
2. Ayurvedic Uses of Fenugreek:
- Balancing Hormones: Fenugreek contains phytoestrogens, which mimic the hormone estrogen. This property helps regulate hormone levels, particularly in women, aiding in alleviating symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations such as menstrual cramps, PMS, and menopause. This is HUGE for hormonal related hair loss.
- Promoting Digestive Health: In Ayurveda, fenugreek is known for its ability to improve digestion and relieve gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion, bloating, and constipation. It helps in the secretion of digestive enzymes, facilitating efficient nutrient absorption and promoting gut health. With all the talk around our gut biome effecting everything throughout our mind and body, it’s no surprise how an herb with these benefits could greatly improve overall health.
- Nurturing Skin and Hair: This being the BIG reason I wanted to share this herb with you, fenugreek has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic formulations for promoting healthy skin and hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can soothe skin irritations, delay signs of aging, and improve the overall complexion.
Fenugreek seeds are rich in proteins and nicotinic acid, which can strengthen the hair shafts, promote hair growth, and reduce hair fall. These nutrients help nourish the hair follicles and prevent breakage, resulting in healthier and stronger hair.
This amazing herb also possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate scalp conditions like dandruff, itchiness, and scalp inflammation. It hydrates the scalp, reduces flakiness, and promotes a healthy scalp environment for optimal hair growth.
Fenugreek seeds contain lecithin, an emollient that coats and protects hair strands, giving them a natural shine and smoothness. Regular use of fenugreek paste or oil treatments can help restore moisture and add luster to dull, dry hair.
This plant is also believed to enhance hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp. It delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, stimulating hair growth and preventing hair thinning, and finally, fenugreek is thought to have properties that help delay premature graying of hair due to its rich content of antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and various minerals. These antioxidants protect the hair follicles from oxidative stress and free radicals, which can contribute to premature graying.
How to Incorporate Fenugreek into Your Routine:
a. Fenugreek Tea: Steep fenugreek seeds in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy this herbal infusion to reap its hormonal-balancing and digestive benefits.
b. Topical Applications for hair and skin health:
Fenugreek Hair Mask: Soak fenugreek seeds overnight, grind them into a paste, and apply it to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. This mask can be used once or twice a week to improve hair health.
Fenugreek Oil: Infuse fenugreek seeds in a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Heat the mixture gently and allow it to cool. Massage the warm oil into your scalp and hair, leaving it on overnight for deep nourishment. Rinse it off the next morning with a mild shampoo.
Fenugreek Tea Rinse: Brew fenugreek seeds in hot water, strain the seeds, and use the liquid as a final rinse after shampooing. This can help strengthen the hair, reduce hair fall, and add shine to your tresses.
c. Capsules or Supplements: Fenugreek is available in the form of capsules or as an ingredient in certain herbal supplements. This is how I like to take it on the daily!
Fenugreek, deeply rooted in Ayurveda, offers tremendous health benefits for women. From hormonal balance to promoting digestion to rejuvenating skin and hair, this Ayurvedic wonder herb has proven its worth over centuries. By embracing fenugreek as part of our wellness routine, we can tap into its centuries-old wisdom and experience the holistic advantages it brings to women's health. When it comes to our beauty routine, plant medicine can be our first line of defense, and I am so happy that I had the chance to spotlight this amazing herb as my first post in many to come on plant medicine and women’s health and beauty.
Thanks for stopping by!
With Love From,
Ev ✨