Health benefits of methi

Methi or fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.) is an important but less known ingredient of the globally famous South Asian curries. The herbaceous plant has indeterminate growth habit with trifoliate leaves and legume pods containing 10-20 golden brownish seeds. This plant species has been used both in ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine in treating a number of human diseases. Both leaves and seeds have rich medicinal properties. The seeds have significant properties in reducing blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels. As such, in addition to its traditional use as a spice and forage crop, the plant has attracted the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and functional food industries. Semi-arid and drier parts of Bangladesh will be suitable for cultivation of this crop which has a great demand in the international markets.

Saikat Kumar Basu
Lethbridge AB, Canada