Fenugreek (Hulbah/ Maythi)

Fenugreeki (Hulbah in Arabic and Maythi in Urdu) is a plant that can be used as both herb (the leaves) and as a spice (the seeds). Fenugreek contains vitamin B, iron, phosphorus and calcium which removes physical weakness and blood deficiency.

It has many cures and it can be grown in most climates. Many Asians use Mathyi regularly in the curries that they prepare but don't know its benefits. It is reported that Holy Prophet (S.A.W) once said: "If my people knew what there is in fenugreek, they would have bought and paid its weight in gold." It can be derived that fenugreek is very important and beneficial to us.

Fenugreek helps cure many illness such as: improves liver function, stomach ulcers, swelling and infection of intestines, chronic constipation, relieve digestive ailments, treatment for skin, protects the inner skin of lungs, strengthens the heart, removes yellowness of eyes, bitter taste of mouth and nausea, cure excessive menstrual bleeding and many more.

It contain soluble fibres and amino acids which increases the production of Insulin and slows down the absorption rate of sugar into blood. This can be beneficial for insulin-dependent diabetic patients.

Taking 1/2 tsp of fenugreek seeds with water regularly will protect the body from many of the winter diseases. Fenugreek Qahwa (fenugreek tea) is an effective cure for stomach pain and relieves indigestion. As fenugreek is rich in fibre and antioxidants, it helps in flushing out harmful toxins from the body and thus, aids digestion.

Fenugreek also helps to reduce cholesterol levels, especially low density
lipoprotein (LDL). They are known to be rich source of steroidal saponins that prevent the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Usage of fenugreek is good for backache, arthritis and for enlarged spleen. For arthritis (joints pain), grind 10 gram of fresh leaves of fenugreek, mix some water and take it on empty stomach in the morning.

Fenugreek also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that aid in the treatment of various skin problems like burns, boils and eczema.