23 Benefits Of Fenugreek Powder For Skin, Hair, & Health

From regulating blood pressure to treating constipation – this powder does it all.

Medically reviewed by Reda Elmardi, RDN
Written by Tanya Choudhary, B.Desgn, ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition
Edited by Ravi Teja Tadimalla, BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health
Fact-checked by Himanshi Mahajan, BSc (Life Sciences), Certified Health & Nutrition Life Coach  • 

Fenugreek or methi is a herb and medicinal plant well-known for its therapeutic properties! Fenugreek powder makes it even more accessible and convenient to use! Fenugreek powder benefits your skin and hair health along with improving your digestive metabolism! While it is readily available in supermarkets and grocery stores, you can also make fenugreek powder at home by thoroughly grinding the fenugreek seeds. Though widely used as curry seasoning for cooking and culinary purposes in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines due to the flavor and aroma it brings to the dishes and recipes, in this article, we shall learn about the medicinal and beauty benefits of fenugreek powder as well! Read on to know further!

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Fenugreek Powder

What Is It?
A powdered form of seeds derived from the fenugreek plant.

What Are Its Benefits?
Improves cardiovascular health, controls blood pressure, reduces skin inflammation, and treats dandruff.

Who Can Use It?
Individuals with high cholesterol levels and digestive issues.

How Often?
A typical dosage of fenugreek powder is 1–2 teaspoons per day.

Caution
May cause gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea if consumed in excess. It may also interact with blood thinners and diabetic medication.

Benefits Of Fenugreek Powder For Health

Fenugreek powder may treat fever
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So, if you are yet to jump on this ‘health bandwagon’, let me give you 39 reasons to start using it right now. Are you ready?

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

The dust of fenugreek seeds is extremely beneficial for our cardiovascular system (1). The spice contains galactomannan, a group of natural polysaccharides (soluble fiber), which promotes the functionality of heart and reduces the risk of heart attack.

2. Controls Blood Pressure

Fenugreek is high in potassium and low in sodium. Therefore, the powdered seeds can keep our blood pressure under control and regulate our heart rate efficiently (2).

3. Reduces Cholesterol

When it comes to combating the escalating plasma cholesterol, fenugreek powder comes as a great solution. It can lower the level of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL or ‘bad cholesterol’) remarkably. So, it is used as a cholesterol blocking agent (3).

4. Controls Diabetes

Fenugreek powder's galactomannan may control diabetes
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Diabetic people can be very much benefited by fenugreek powder (4). The galactomannan present in the spice is capable of decelerating the absorption rate of sugar into our bloodstream. Additionally, it comprises almost all essential amino acids that can stimulate the production of insulin. Both of these are effective in controlling diabetes.

5. Treats Gastrointestinal Issues

Fenugreek seeds have deep positive impact on our gastrointestinal system (5). It can flush out toxic materials from our body and keep it clean, which eventually results into better digestion.

6. Treats Constipation

Chronic constipation can also be treated with fenugreek seed powder. It aids in treating indigestion by making the movement of bowels easier and more regular (6). Moreover, it contains a large amount of dietary fiber, which also contributes to constipation.

7. Heals Heartburn

When ingested in dust form, fenugreek seeds create a protective coat on the inner wall of our stomach as well as intestine and soothe inflammed tissues at the same time. As a result, it does not get affected by the acidic secretion and we do not develop gastric ulcer (7). It is also useful in healing heartburn and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GRD).

8. Good For Anemic Patients

Being rich in iron, fenugreek powder is a good remedy for anemic patients (8). It can increase the amount of hemoglobin in Red Blood Corpuscles (RBC) in our blood and aid anemia greatly (9).

protip_icon Did You Know?
In Chinese medicine, fenugreek seeds are used as a tonic and remedy for weakness and edema in the legs (21).

9. Keep Colon Cancer At Bay

It has been already mentioned that fenugreek seeds contain lots of dietary fibers. Some of them (the exopolysachharide ‘mucilage’, the glycoside ‘saponin’, etc.) binds to toxic materials present in the consumed foods and eliminate them from the body. It safeguards the mucus membrane of the colon and helps us keep colon cancer at bay (10).

10. Treats Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Fenugreek powder is one of the most effective natural remedies for women health issues, especially for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) (8). It is full of two chemical compounds named isoflavones (certain type of phyto-estrogen) and diosgenin (a steroidal saponin), which give a feel of comfort and relaxation during menstrual cramps. Common signs of menopause like hot flashes, mood swing, etc. can also be reduced with it.

11. Boosts Lactation

The diosgenin content of the spice is highly capable of boosting the production of milk in lactating women (11). Hence, fenugreek powder is also a must for would-be mothers as well as moms with newborn babies.

Joanna Lobo, a writer, shares that when her sister was pregnant, the most common piece of advice she got was to consume methi (fenugreek) to boost lactation. She writes, “ The humble methi seeds are an important part of postnatal care. They are believed to increase the quantity of breast milk — it is part of galactagogues, a category of foods that are known to boost lactation (i).”

12. Lessen Labor Pain

Several studies have established that fenugreek can lessen labor pain considerably and make the process of child birth easier by stimulating the contractions of uterine muscles (8).

13. Maintains The Hormonal Balance

As said previously, certain chemical substances present in fenugreek possess properties like oestrogen (12). They assist in maintaining the hormonal balance and enlarging the breasts in females.

14. Cures Fever

Powdered fenugreek is also good for curing high fever (13) and respiratory diseases. It can help us get relief from sore throat and chronic cough.

Benefits Of Fenugreek Powder For Skin

Fenugreek powder may reduce aging signs
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15. Reduce Skin Inflammation

Fenugreek seeds are known to have excellent anti-bacterial (14), anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, their dust can reduce skin inflammation (15) caused by wounds, eczema, burns, etc. and accelerate the healing procedure.

16. Reduces Signs Of Aging

It is a natural anti-ageing remedy. Being rich in niacin or vitamin B3, it can repair already damaged skin cells and regenerate new ones effectively. As a result, we get rid of wrinkles, age spots, fine lines, and so on (16).

17. Provides Natural Glow

Fenugreek powder as a facial scrub may provide natural glow to your skin
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Fenugreek powder can be used as a great homemade facial scrub. Its regular use can lead to a naturally glowing skin by removing dead cells and diminishing blackheads (17).

18. Treats Oily Skin

When used in face pack or face mask, fenugreek powder can reduce the oiliness of our skin and make it free from acne (20).

Benefits Of Fenugreek Powder For Hair

Fenugreek powder may treat dandruff
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19. Treats Dandruff

Fenugreek leaf extracts have demonstrated antifungal properties that can help in the treatment of several fungal infections, including dandruff (18).

20. Controls Hair Fall

It is a natural treatment for frequent hair fall (19). It can curb various issues related to hair follicles and make each of our hair strands strong from the roots.

21. Cures Baldness

As it holds plenty of protein as well as nicotinic acid, the growth of hair is stimulated to a large extent. Hence, fenugreek powder is considered as a great therapy for balding hair (19).

22. Add Shine To Hair

The spice contains an emulsifying element called ‘lecithin’. It conditions our hair, retains its natural shade and makes it shiny (19).

23. Repairs Damaged Hair

You can treat your dry scalp and hair with fenugreek powder. The natural moisturizing or conditioning power of the substance is helpful in removing dryness and repairing damaged hair. So, we can easily bring the luster of our hair back by using it regularly.

protip_icon Trivia
Fenugreek seeds can be used as an alternative to coffee. You can roast the seeds and powder them to make fenugreek seed tea.

These benefits of fenugreek powder may encourage you to have it in excess. However, doing that may pose potential health risks. Keep reading to know more.

Side Effects Of Fenugreek Powder

Fenugreek powder is generally safe for consumption in amounts commonly found in food items. However, it is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women and as a supplement for children. Its excess consumption may have the following side effects (11):

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Severely low blood sugar levels
  • Tingling or itchy mouth
  • Liver toxicity

However, research in this regard is limited, and more studies are warranted to understand the potential side effects of fenugreek powder.

Infographic: The Best Benefits Of Fenugreek Powder For A Healthier Life

Fenugreek powder is derived from the powerful eponymous herb that has a variety of therapeutic properties. It is widely used in skin and hair care routines as it can repair damaged hair and help treat wrinkles, inflammation, and age spots. It also boosts immunity and improves overall metabolism. The following infographic lists some of its best benefits. Check it out!

the best benefits of fenugreek powder for a healthier life (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

Fenugreek powder offers an array of benefits for skin, hair, and health. This powder acts as a health supplement that improves cardiovascular health, controls blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, helps manage gastrointestinal issues, constipation, and anemia, and reduces cancer risk. It eases labor pain and also boosts lactation. This powder also benefits skin and hair. Try including this powder in your diet, skin care, and hair care regimen to reap its benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fenugreek powder be taken daily?

Yes. You can have a teaspoon of fenugreek powder daily to reap its benefits.

When should I take fenugreek powder?

After meals. Fenugreek may help boost digestion, regulate blood sugar, and relieve constipation.

Can fenugreek cause weight gain?

No. On the contrary, scientific studies have shown that fenugreek extracts may help boost fat and sugar metabolism and decrease the production of fatty tissue, thereby ensuring weight loss (20).

Key Takeaways

  • Consume fenugreek regularly to improve heart health and lower cholesterol levels.
  • It reduces the body’s ability to absorb sugar and may help manage diabetes.
  • Fenugreek can regularize bowel movement and get rid of chronic constipation.
  • It may also help fade your wrinkles and fine lines to make your skin look younger.
fenugreek powder

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Discover 13 amazing health benefits of fenugreek seeds, powder, leaves, and oil. Click the video below to know how this ancient spice can help improve your health and well-being.

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Cardioprotective effects of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum) seed extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8007891/
  2. The Effects of Fenugreek Seed Consumption on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36763260/
  3. Hypocholesterolemic effect of germinated fenugreek seeds in human subjects
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10540988/
  4. Effect of Fenugreek on Blood Sugar and Insulin in Diabetic Humans (Fenugreek)
    https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT00597350
  5. Diosgenin a steroid saponin of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) inhibits azoxymethane-induced aberrant crypt foci formation in F344 rats and induces apoptosis in HT-29 human colon cancer cells
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15298963/
  6. Fenugreek a multipurpose crop: Potentialities and improvements
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4894452/
  7. Gastroprotective effect of fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum) on experimental gastric ulcer in rats
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12127242/
  8. Effects of Fenugreek Seed on the Severity and Systemic Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3955423/
  9. Dose-dependent effects of fenugreek seed extract on the biochemical and haematological parameters in high-fat diet-fed rats
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6717075/
  10. Fenugreek: a naturally occurring edible spice as an anticancer agent
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3095649/
  11. Fenugreek
    https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/fenugreek
  12. In vitro estrogenic activities of fenugreek Trigonella foenum graecum seeds
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20571172/
  13. Amebicidal effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum) against Acanthamoeba cysts
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6392877/
  14. A validated RP-HPLC method for quantitation of trigonelline from herbal formulations containing Trigonella foenum-graecum (L.) seeds
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3658058/
  15. Antiallergic effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. extracts on allergic skin inflammation induced by trimellitic anhydride in BALB/c mice
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23036811/
  16. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679
  17. Medicinal Values of Fenugreek – A Review
    https://www.rjpbcs.com/pdf/2013_4(1)/[142].pdf
  18. Fenugreek Leaf Extract and Its Gel Formulation Show Activity Against Malassezia furfur
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6998042/
  19. Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9231528/
  20. Fenugreek Seed Extract Inhibit Fat Accumulation and Ameliorates Dyslipidemia in High Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4020548/
  21. Therapeutic Applications of Fenugreek
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/10877902_Therapeutic_Applications_of_Fenugreek
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