Fenugreek (methi) for health and beauty

methi seedsUse a lot of fenugreek (methi) in your culinary preparations. Why? For the simple reason that it is so healthy. This wonder herb, a very popular vegetable in the Indian cuisine is a nature’s boon to mankind. Besides, it is so appetizing, light and dry. Rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus and iron in their natural forms, its mineral and vitamin contents are also very high and this is easily assimilated by our body. 

methi plant

Both the leaves and seeds of this bitter tasting vegetable are fit for consumption; the seeds are generally used as a condiment and for flavoring. Research has shown that the regular long term use of methi seeds reduces deposits of fat in the body and lowers cholesterol. However make sure you wash the leaves well before using. Is the goodness of this vegetable just restricted to being a health food? No. It has exceptional medicinal uses and can be used as beauty aid as well.

Medicinal uses and home remedies with Methi (fenugreek)
* Methi seeds are nourishing and rejuvenating, with the properties of a stimulant. If you experience fatigue or troubled by backache and other body aches, just eat a teaspoon of methi seeds daily. Also include lots of fenugreek leaves in your diet. This is an age-old tried and tested remedy; it has worked for me. You can try it too.
* Eating a teaspoon of methi seeds or drinking juice of methi seeds (soak methi seeds in water the previous night and then grind it to extract a paste or juice.) the first thing in the morning or an hour before each meal is found to be highly beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. In fact, many naturopaths have ascertained this fact.
* Consuming fenugreek leaves which are a rich source of iron is highly beneficial for those suffering from anemia.
* Applying a paste of methi leaves to the palms and soles of the feet alleviates burning sensation.
* To increase the secretion of milk in nursing mothers, the seeds may be given in the form of gruel (Kanji).
* Add 1 tsp of methi seeds to yoghurt and take this to cure diarrhea and dysentery.
* The powder of methi seeds should also be taken when there is loss of appetite, abdominal distension, gas and flatulence. It also gives respite in colds and fevers. Methi cleanses and detoxifies the body by drawing out waste matter and expelling it.
* It is also beneficial in dyspepsia, vomiting, piles, intestinal worms and other ailments.
* To clear the phlegm and cure coughs, make a decoction of methi leaves. To 1 cup of this decoction, add 1 tsp each of ginger and honey and have it.
* A herbal tea made from fenugreek seeds is highly beneficial in reducing temperature in fevers.
* A poultice made of the leaves can be applied with benefits in external and internal swellings, sprains and burns.
* Consume steamed fenugreek leaves to get relief for your arthritic joints and rheumatism.
* Also consume fenugreek leaves regularly to keep your respiratory system, nervous system, reproductive system and neuromuscular system in a good condition.

One of the better ways to consume methi
The most effective way to eat methi seeds is to sprout them a little, then dry the sprouts, powder them and include in the everyday diet. You can have it in powdered form, as a decoction and herb tea.

Methi as a beauty aid
* Paste of the fresh leaves and coconut milk applied over the scalp is believed to prevent hair-loss, promote hair growth, preserve its natural color, delay graying of hair and make it silky soft.
* Add the powder of methi seeds with coconut oil and massage it on your scalp. Wash it off the next day with cold water. This helps to prevent premature graying of hair.
* A paste of methi leaves mixed with vinegar is good for treating dandruff.
* Applying the paste of fenugreek leaves and turmeric on your face is very good for pimple and blackhead prone skin.
* Make a paste of fenugreek leaves and add boiled milk to it. Applying this to your face delays the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It not just improves the complexion but also makes one look years younger.
Pic credits:fotosearch.com

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76 comments:

  1. I take Fenugreek in capsule form to slow down blood sugar spikes when eating. It is also good for underarm odor. When I use it regularly, when I sweat, I smell like Fenugreek. I like the smell of it and it sure beat underarm odor.

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  2. Anonymous4:57 PM

    Thanks for sharing.
    JHS
    Colloquium (http://www.jhsiess.com)

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  3. Anonymous3:27 PM

    are methi seeds a good source of iron too, or is it just the leaves?

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  4. As far as I know, the seeds too are a good source of iron.

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  5. Anonymous4:52 PM

    Fenugreek tea: Half a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds, boiled with a cupful of water, cooled, and flavored with a teaspoon of lemon juice with honey/sugar added to taste, removes the foul sour taste in the mouth and the unpleasant body odour associated with some fevers.

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  6. Anonymous5:27 PM

    Soak fenugreek overnight and grind it in the morning .Apply the paste on the scalp and wash it off after 20 minutes .It prevents hair fall .Take food rich in protein, essential fatty acids, carotene, iron, silica, zinc, Vitamins E , C ,Vitamin B (especially biotin) to have a healthy head of hair.

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  7. Anonymous5:40 PM

    The methi leaves are best for pregnant women for development of breast. After delivery it helps in production of milk for the young one.
    So those ladies who are pregnant should regularly take 20 to 30 methi leaves daily.

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  8. Anonymous3:16 PM

    if a woman is not pregnant but wants to develop breasts, are meethi leaves going to help her too?

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  9. Dr Aravind9:02 AM

    Fenugreek contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, and loosens & removes excess mucus and phlegm. Fenugreek is a natural source of iron, silicon, sodium and thiamine. It is also used as a digestive aid. It is a useful herb that can be used in Anemia, Pregnancy and Lactation, Dandruff, Fevers, Stomach Disorders, Respiratory Infections, Bad breath and Body Odour and Swellings

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  10. Dr Shivaswamy9:29 AM

    The healthy nutrition of fenugreek leaves have been widely known for years. Many people eat these leaves instead of medical doctoring and they say they have been cured of many ailments
    Medicinal purposes include:
    •Allergies
    • Bronchitis
    • high cholesterol levels
    digestive ailments
    • emphysema
    • intestinal gas
    • headaches
    • lung infections
    • mucous congestion
    • skin eruptions

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  11. Swarna8:34 AM

    Fenugreek (methi)is supposed to help with your hormones like when you are going through Menopause .

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  12. Soubhagya9:05 AM

    Soak dry gooseberries and fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Grind to a paste in the morning. Use it as a shampoo while washing hair. This makes the roots strong and is a good hair loss remedy.

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  13. Shobha8:22 AM

    you can use it for stomach issues. Typically, the recommended dose for oral use is 1-6 g three times a day. Doses as high as 50-100 g/day have been used in clinical trials so that should be safe. Or if you have some baking soda, use 1/2 teaspoon in a glass of water, that should help you as well. But do not use the soda if you have high blood pressure problems.

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  14. Anonymous10:21 AM

    It's supposed to help with your hormones like when you are going through Menopause

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  15. Ravikala4:38 PM

    It is has a gentle laxative quality which is very good right after birth.
    If you have diabetes, it can lower your blood sugar, and if you take blood thinners you shouldn't use fenugreek.

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  16. Anonymous6:21 PM

    fenugreek is the only one that cleans the small intestine. It is in a colon cleaning formula called "Fiberzon."

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  17. Tulasi6:28 PM

    Fenugreek has been used orally for loss of appetite and stomach complaints. Fenugreek has also been used topically (on the skin) to treat inflammation, boils, wounds, and eczema.

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  18. unknown6:02 PM

    Its regular use helps the body clean and healthy. The leaves of Fenugreek are aromatic, cooling and mild laxative. The seeds are exercise soothing effect on the skin and membranes, relieving any irritation of skin and removing the swelling and pain.

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  19. Anonymous3:54 PM

    Mira hair oil is an excellent ayurvedic hair treatment medicine, it is all natural and it vitalizes the growth of your hair!
    It removes DHT and unblocks pores, allowing your hair to grow longer and stronger

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  20. Sharada4:30 PM

    one tablespoon of whole Fenugreek seeds are taken early morning on an empty stomach for controlling diabetes.

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  21. applying methi powder on the face on regular base will make a noticeable change..clear skin n increase in complexion within 2-3months..

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  22. Kamala9:46 AM

    You can make a fenugreek tea and drink it that way. That way you are not mixing it up with other things so you are getting it directly. It also helps with other things. It can help with menstrual symptoms as well and some other things, also it helps prevent breast cancer.

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  23. unknown8:55 AM

    Use avandia for daibetics

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  24. Anonymous2:09 PM

    I was surprised to read one comment that you shouldn't take fenugreek if you are taking blood thinners. I would like to know more and why?
    I am choking on phlegm and cannot expell this and need to take fenugreek to see if this works. I am tempted to stop taking my blood thinners.

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  25. Consult your doctor regarding this. Also you can find some info here.

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  26. Anonymous9:24 PM

    Excellent Knowledge........ but i want to say that i am drinking fenugreek dry leaves by boiling it in water but i am feeling that my complexion is becoming darker could you please suggest...

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  27. Kousal3:52 PM

    Very interesting health benefits! Looks like I need to use more fenugreek!

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  28. I never realized how helpful methi could be, I will definitely try to add a bit more of this to my diet.

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  29. Dinesh9:53 AM

    Fenugreek helps attain hormonal balance in women and therefore, helps in enlargement of breasts. It is an essential ingredient of many breast enhancer medicines and is widely used in commercial preparation. Also, it helps increase the lactation in breast feeding women. It can even reduce labor pain and induce child birth in a woman. Moreover, it reduces the menstrual discomfort and eases menstrual cramps.

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  30. Veena9:55 AM

    Fenugreek is a natural herb with extremely potent seeds, which have a medicinal effect to reduce balding,

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  31. Anonymous9:56 AM

    Fenugreek seeds prove to be an excellent beauty product. They help prevent wrinkles, blackheads, pimples, dryness and rashes. Apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves, mixed with water, over the face and keep it for twenty minutes. Then wash it with warm water. You can even wash your face with water, boiled with fenugreek seeds. It can also be applied on the inflamed body parts and as a cosmetic product too.

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  32. Anonymous6:11 PM

    Fenugreek leaves are enriched with minerals like Potassium, Calcium, and Iron. One hundred grams of fenugreek leaves comprise only 49 calories. The leaves have good dietary fiber and are enriched with Vitamin C. The Vitamin K from fenugreek greens are comparable to spinach.

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  33. Anonymous9:36 AM

    Fenugreek greens and seeds are rich in nutrients. The seeds contain fibers and steroidal saponins. These two nutrients are considered important for the health and well-being of an individual. The fibers lower the blood sugar levels, and the steroidal saponins may stop the absorption of cholesterol into the body. Fenugreek also contains lysine, L-tryptophan and trigonelline.

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  34. Anonymous9:15 AM

    I used Fenugreek after I gave birth.... It's known that Fenugreek seeds help you with the milk flow after the childbirth. My doctor told me never take them before the childbirth. But please try to get a more accurate answer with an specialist since this is always a very delicate subject.

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  35. Arjun8:18 AM

    Buy and store your fenugreek in whole form, if possible. If you want to use it in powder form, then grind or powder them in a grinder or mortar & pestle just prior to using because they rapidly lose their freshness and flavor once ground.Fenugreek whole or powdered should be stored in airtight containers in a cool dark place.

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  36. Karan8:22 AM

    25 - 100 grams of fenugreek seeds eaten daily can diminish reactive hyperglycemia in diabetic patients.
    Fenugreek leaves and seeds help in blood formation. They are good for preventing anemia and rundown conditions.
    Including fenugreek seeds in lactating mothers increase the flow of milk.
    A paste of the fresh fenugreek leaves, applied on the face prevents pimples, blackheads, dryness of the face and early appearance of wrinkles.
    For removal of dandruff in hair.

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  37. Anonymous8:51 AM

    I took it when I was breastfeeding to help produce milk- I can tell you I took it just the way I was instructed and it did NOT help! People have commented about stamina- it doesn't really do anything for you, I didn't notice a difference in anything---and it makes you smell bad after you have used it a while. It makes you smell like musty when you sweat! Yuck!

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  38. Health Expert12:35 PM

    Benefits of Drinking Herbal Tea:
    As a beverage and a stimulant
    Helps to fight against mutagenic agents i.e it contains anti-oxidant properties that prevents cancer.Helps to curb high blood pressure
    Prevents viral and bacterial infections in individuals Helps in delaying ageing process in individuals Helps in improving and regulating the functions of the digestive and excretory systems. Helps to prevent occurrence of blood clots Helps in lowering cholesterol levels
    Helps in neutralization of enzymes that aid in the growth of tumors
    Helps to stimulate the immune system of an individual

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  39. Linda2:45 PM

    It certainly sounds worth trying as beauty aid. I just wonder, the name Fenugreek does not sound familiar to me. Is it called with any other names?

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  40. Health Expert3:11 PM

    Anemic patients can consume fenugreek leaves regularly as they are a rich source of iron.
    Fenugreek leaves paste applied on palms and soles alleviates burning sensation.
    A cup of fenugreek leaves decoction added to honey and a teaspoon of ginger powder clears the phlegm and cures cough.
    Fenugreek leaves paste applied on swellings, sprains and burns heals them effectively.
    Fenugreek leaves consumed regularly tones your respiratory system, nervous system, reproductive system and neuromuscular system. Fenugreek leaf powder significantly increases the antioxidant system in diabetics.

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  41. Anonymous5:15 PM

    today, i applied a overnight soaked grinded methi seeds on scalp and found severe hair fall..
    what is the reason....?
    may be i am using it for the first time..?

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  42. Tapasya8:43 AM

    take some fenugreek seeds and powder it finely and mix it with fresh curd and apply to your face,neck or to your whole body this works wonder tanned body and helps your skin to glow....

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  43. It's a good nutritional supplement and help treat digestive problems

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  44. Anonymous2:04 AM

    Can i eat fenugreek leaves in pregnancy. I am 8 weeks pregnant and read some where it cause contractions to the uterus and causes miscarraige. Is that true?

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  45. I really don't know if fenugreek causes contractions and causes miscarriage. All I know is aloe juice, papaya, sesame seeds, pineapple juice, cashew nuts should not be taken when one is pregnant. Fenugreek is actually very cooling, so it shouldn't cause a problem but to be on the safer side please consult an ayurvedic doctor.

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  46. @Anon comment #43: I consulted an Ayurvedic doctor and it seems that fenugreek (methi) indeed is an abortifacient, it does induce abortion if you consume too much of it when you are pregnant. It definitely is cooling, but somehow it is believed to enhance uterine contractions; so it's best to avoid during pregnancy. However consuming it after your delivery is very much helpful; that's what the doctor said.

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  47. Kalindi9:37 AM

    Fenugreek for stomach issue?

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  48. nutritionist9:38 AM

    Yes, you can use it for stomach issues. Typically, the recommended dose for oral use is 1-6 g three times a day. Doses as high as 50-100 g/day have been used in clinical trials so that should be safe.

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  49. Govinda9:53 AM

    Methi or fenugreek seeds contain 50 per cent fibre, which helps control cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and is very beneficial for diabetics. The seeds also contain an alkaloid which helps in reducing blood sugar levels.

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  50. Praveena9:14 AM

    Effective in bad breath, body odour, anemia and stomach disorders. The leaves help in blood formation. The cooked leaves help prevent anemia. Tea made from fenugreek seeds in equal in value to quinine in reducing fevers and bad breath and body odor. The seeds are useful in the removal of dandruff

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  51. Alaka8:36 AM

    methi powder would be good for preventing hair leaves. u can apply the powder before 1 hour of shower and den take shower. and use mild shampoos. u can use the powder of methi leaves or seeds and apply it. egg yolk is also good but some may feel that it may give a kind of odor to their hair which it actually does not give. i have the experience of using methi powder

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  52. please tell me is methi good for weight reducing?

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  53. tanvy, it's true, methi (fenugreek) is good for reducing weight. The active compound, 4-hydroxyisoleucine apparently helps in reducing the production of body fat. Also the presence of soluble fibers, the galactomannans, with its fat-sequestering properties binds to the dietary fat and reduces its absorption into the body. Source

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  54. Anonymous11:14 PM

    hey hwo does fenugreek help in breast enlargement?if it really does then plz tell me the way to use it..i really want to increase my breast size,,plzz helpp

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  55. Fenugreek is rich in potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. It has good amount of iron and sodium with small amount of zinc, copper, manganese and selenium.

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  56. Kapila11:48 AM

    Fenugreek Tea: This wonderful home remedy has shown to be quite effective in healing the damages caused by several skin diseases including acne and rosacea. If you did not see the fenugreek tea at your nearby store just get some fenugreek in a vessel and pour boiling water over it and keep it as such for around 10 minutes. Filter out the tea and drink it to experience the wonder it does to your skin.

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  57. Poornima11:12 AM

    Fenugreek is used as a digestive aid.

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  58. Fatima12:32 PM

    Great. I'm not actually familiar about the Fenugreek Seeds, but when i read the health benefits that give these Fenugreek Seeds, i want to try it.

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  59. Vihari8:35 AM

    It is a very good source of iron. That is why fenugreek, both its seeds and leaves are considered medicinal for curing anemia. In fact, even if you follow standard medicine, patients with low hemoglobin count are usually put on a diet of fenugreek and other vegetables like spinach and lettuce.

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  60. Yogini8:36 AM

    If you crush the fresh leaves of Fenugreek or make a glass of juice out of them, it could be the perfect health drink to control the hormonal level of insulin in the blood.

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  61. Dayaghan8:39 AM

    fenugreek is also a great source of protein and nicotinic acid. These nutrients lend benefits of fenugreek that are specific to hair. It foster hair growth and is good for the general health and shine of hair.

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  62. Kailas8:43 AM

    Fenugreek seeds are also beneficial in treatment of skin disorders like hard to heal wounds, cracked nipples and lips, ulcers, and other dermatological lesions. Also, applying a plaster of fenugreek seed paste to the affected skin helps in immediate healing of furuncles or boils, abscesses, and cellulitis, as this natural remedy helps in drainage and cleaning of skin.

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  63. Regular consumption of fenugreek seeds helps lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides (fat found in the blood). Since fenugreek seeds keep cholesterol and diabetes under check, it helps lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

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  64. Pallavi8:44 AM

    Fenugreek is claimed to help lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood fluctuations, common symptoms of menopause and PMS. Intake of fenugreek seeds also help regularise menstruation cycles.

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  65. Chaitra8:57 AM

    A paste made of ground fenugreek and water is a common home remedy to treat pimples, burns and even eczema. Mixing fenugreek paste in coconut oil or applying as it is makes for an excellent conditioner for your hair and scalp.

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  66. Anonymous4:17 PM

    funegreek seeds is excelent after birth so moms can breast feed, it increases breast milk in like 24 hours !!... but it is very bad during pregnancy especially in the first 3 months as it can cause miscarriage... so please please take care ladys..

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  67. I have been using methi for a few months now and I have seen the difference it has made in my hair.

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  68. Anonymous1:05 AM

    i am arthiritis patient, suggest any home remedies, if you can.

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  69. Anonymous9:38 AM

    Hi. I m 27 yrs lady having 72 kg achy. My height is 156cm I want to reduce my weight. Can you please suggest about intake of Meethi seeds. Also will intake of Meethi impact my breast size.

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  70. @Anonymous comment 70: Soak 2-3 tsp of methi seeds in water overnight and then have it in the morning on an empty stomach. Then drink a glass of lukewarm water mixed with honey and lemon juice. However, remember that only methi seeds cannot make you lose weight. You should follow up with exercise and keep a watch on your diet too. It's said that intake of methi increases breast size but there are no published scientific studies to support this claim.

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  71. I am having blood pressure , tyroid & cholestrol . At present I am taking antibiotic medicines. Today I have read the medicinal uses of the fenugreek and tips for beauty aid by using fenugreek leaves. I feel happy that if I follow the medicinal uses of fenugreek will control the above disease. - by sukirtha

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  72. Anonymous6:03 PM

    Use methi seeds in sprouted form . It's a good antioxidant and make our immune system strong.

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  73. Once you boil methi seeds and leave it overnight, how long can you keep this mix before it goes off. Is it days, weeks or even longer.

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    Replies
    1. You should soak methi seeds overnight and have it in hte morning. You should not store soaked methi seeds. You have to use fresh ones every time.

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