What are benefits of Methi dana ?
Methi dana benefits has been known to Indian people since ages ,that is why it has been used in Indian kitchens and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. In English it is known as fenugreek seeds. With a distinctive bitter-sweet flavor and strong aroma, it is valued for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Historically, fenugreek has been mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for improving digestion, regulating blood sugar, and promoting overall vitality.
Latin Name: Trigonella Foenum greacum
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Methi
- Bengali: Methis, Methilka
- Tamil: Vendhayam
- Telugu: Mentulu
- Kannada: Menthya, Menthe
- Malayalam: Ventiyam, Vendiyam
- Marathi: Methi
- Gujarati: Methi, Methini Bhaji
- Punjabi: Metha, Shamli, Methi, Methini
- English : Fenugreek seeds
Sanskrit Names:
Methika, Methini, Methi, Vallari, Chandrika, Mantha, Mishrapushpa, Kairavi, Kunchika, Bahuparni, Bahupatrika- numerous leaves and twigs
Peetha beeja : Yellow seeds
Bahubeeja: numerous seeds
Gandhaphala: Peculiar odor
Deepani, Bodhani, Ugra : Improves taste digestive
Jatigandhaphala: Fruits are aromatic
Methika : Which improves medha or intellect.
Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Methi seeds
Ras
- Katu ( Pungent)
- Tikta (Bitter)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Ushna (Hot)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Snigdha(Unctous)
Dosha Effect
Balances: Kapha and Vata dosha
May increase: Pitta (if overused)
Classical Categorization
In Bhavprakash nighantu it is classified in Haritkyadi Varga
Dhanvantari Nighantu – Suvaranadi varga
Raj Nighantu : Pippalyadi varga
Methi dana chemical composition
Steroidal saponins (diosgenin, yamogenin, tigogenin, neotigogenin) – linked to cholesterol-lowering and hormonal effects.
Alkaloids – trigonelline (hypoglycemic activity), gentianine, carpaine.
Flavonoids – orientin, vitexin, isovitexin.
Coumarins – scopoletin, umbelliferone.
Mucilage – soluble fiber that forms a gel-like texture in water.
Fixed oils – mainly linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acids.
Nutritional content
100 grams of fenugreek contains
1.Vitamin A 60 µg
2.Vita C 3 to 4 mg
3.Vitamin E o.4 mg
4.Thaimin (Vit. B1) 0.34 mg
5.Riboflavin ( Vit. B2) 0.36 mg
6.Niacin ( Vit.B3) 6 mg
7.Pyridoxin ( Vit. B6) 0.6 mg
8.Folate (Vit B9) 57 µg
9.Vitamin K 6 µg
Health Benefits of Methi dana
Blood Sugar Control
Fenugreek seeds contain soluble fiber and compounds like trigonelline, which slow carbohydrate absorption and improve insulin sensitivity. Moreover due to the presence of natural fiber galactomannan, methi helps to cut down the rate at which sugar is absorbed into bloodstream. This is a must have spice for diabetic patients hoping to keep their sugar levels to a minimum.
Fenugreek and Type 2 Diabetes Control (2023, Journal of Ethnopharmacology)
Digestive Health
Methi dana benefits in heart-burn and acid reflux which renders you so helpless. The mucilage in methi dana helps to soothe stomach inflammation while providing a protective coating for your stomach and intestinal lining.
The bitter taste of methi dana makes it beneficial in balancing the Kapha and Vata dosha in stomach, thereby providing relief from heaviness in abdomen and bloating.
May improve testosterone hormone in males
Fenugreek seeds have been found effective in increasing libido as well as testosterone levels in men.
A study conducted in 2020 found that people who took 600 mg of supplement made from fenugreek seed had a measurable increase in testosterone concentration. Along with this the study also found that these people have had a decrease in body mass and body fat but an increase in lean mass.
Useful in increasing breast milk production
There are many womens who face the problem of lack of breast milk after delivery. Breast milk is best source of nutrition for your baby and therefore it is essential that you produce enough breast milk.
Fenugreek seeds are the best natural remedy that helps in production of breast milk.
A study in mothers with newborn and complaints of insufficient milk were given water soaked with fenugreek. The study found that there was an increase in milk production along with increase in frequency of urination. Also it was found that the newborn babies had a higher weight gain compared to the control group.
Actions (Karma) of Methi dana in Ayurveda
Vatahara – Calms Vata dosha
Kaphanashini – Useful in Kapha dosha imbalance
Jvaranashini – Relieves fever
Balya – Improves strength and libido
Arochakhar – Improves taste relives anorexia
Diptkari : Helps improve digestion
Amahara : Relieves Ama(toxins) from the body
How to use Methi dana
Methi dana can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Fenugreek water: To prepare this take 1 teaspoon of methi dana and soak in one cup of water. Keep it soaked overnight. Next day filter this water. Take it empty stomach two times a day.
- Dosage : 20 to 30 ml two times a day.
- Methi dana powder: 1-2( 2 to 5 gms) teaspoon two times daily after meals.
- Methi leaves juice : 10 to 20ml juice two times a day.
- Part Used : Leaves and Seeds
What are the side effects of Methi dana
Like any other Ayurvedic herb methi dana is having many health benefits . However it may have some side effects as well They include
Allergic Rashes
If someone is sensitive to methi dana they may see skin rashes or redness and itching In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .
Reduced Appetite
It may cause you less hunger which could be harmful if you have an eating disorder or are trying to gain weight.
People on blood- thinning or diabetes medications should consult a doctor before use.
Precautions
Avoid consuming Methi dana during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use Methi dana in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such reduced hunger and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using fenugreek seeds. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use Methi dana continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store Methi dana powder in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Home Remedies of Methi dana
For Diabetes management
Soak 1 tsp methi seeds in water overnight.
Drink the water on an empty stomach in the morning.
Frequency: Daily.
In Hairfall & Dandruff
Soak 2 tbsp methi seeds overnight, grind into a paste.
Apply to scalp for 30 minutes before washing.
Frequency: Twice weekly.
For breast feeding mothers
To make the you need following ingredients:
Methi dana – 5 grams ( 1 teaspoon)
Milk – 200 ml
Water – 100ml
How to make the oil:
First soak 5 grams of 1 methi dana in 1oo ml of water and keep it overnight. Next day this is cooked well with 200 ml of milk. One can add a little bit of jaggery to it.
The helps to increase breast milk production and hence recommended to lactating mothers.
To reduce cholesterol
To make the you need following ingredients:
Methi dana powder – 5 grams ( 1 teaspoon)
Water or buttermilk – as required
How to use
5 grams of fenugreek powder is administered along with warm water or buttermilk two times a day for 1 month significantly reduces cholesterol.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does fenugreek seeds take to start showing benefits ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly methi dana benefits are seen.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains Fenugreek seeds
Methi dana is one of the ingredients in following medicines
Mustharishtam: It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat digestive complaints like diarrhea, indigestion and gases.
Dhanwanthararishtam: This ayurvedic medicine is mainly used in Ayurvedic post natal care of the mother.
Conclusion
Methi dana is a time-tested superfood that bridges the wisdom of Ayurveda and modern science. Whether used in cooking, as a supplement, or as a natural remedy, it offers numerous health benefits. However, always use it in moderation and seek professional advice for long-term use.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
.
Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
.
