Natural Factors Fenugreek Seed 500mg - 90 Caps

What is Fenugreek?

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is used primarily to break up and expel mucus, soothe gastrointestinal problems, lower cholesterol, and increase milk production in nursing mothers. Practitioners in Middle Eastern countries use fenugreek to treat diabetes.

Fenugreek has the ability to soften and dissolve hardened accumulated mucus, particularly from the bronchial tubes, as well as helping to expel toxic waste through the lymphatic system. Fenugreek has some antiseptic properties and may help lung infections. It also contains lecithin which dissolves cholesterol and contains lipotropic (fat dissolving) substances. The constituents in the seeds contain a saponin closely related to those in yucca. Fenugreek has been used with lemon juice and honey to reduce fevers.

Fennel

Fennel seed is a gentle digestive aid that is has a pleasant licorice taste and aroma. It can be used as a flavouring in baked goods and desserts. Fennels active ingredients are the essential oils contained inside the seeds. Fennel decreases that "heavy" feeling you get in your stomach after eating a large meal by promoting movement in the gastrointestinal tract.

Ironically it also decreases intestinal spasms when it is taken in larger quantities. In the respiratory tract the essential oils decreases mucus secretions and increases the activity of the little hairs that line the tract. The hairs are responsible for moving mucus out of the lungs and up to the throat where it can be expectorated. Fennel seed is recommended by natural health practitioners for a variety of concerns including coughs, colds, allergies, indigestion and diarrhea. It is often given to children for upper respiratory tract infections.

Fennel seeds are usually crushed or ground to release the essential oils (medicinal ingredients). They can be purchased loose, in tea bags or encapsulated. Fennel may be found in formulas for soothing the digestive tract or decreasing coughs.

It has been reported that fennel can lead to allergic bronchial and skin reactions but these reactions are rare. Fennel essential oil is a concentrated form of fennel. All essential oils carry an increased risk of toxicity when they are used internally and should not be given to pregnant women or children.
Contraindications

Fenugreek seed powder may interact with insulin or oral drugs to control blood sugar levels because of its ability to improve blood sugar levels in diabetics.
Monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended if taking fenugreek seed powder. Consult your health care practitioner if you are on insulin or oral hypoglycemic drug (Glucophage, Micronase, Diabeta).