Fenugreek is an easy-to-grow, clover-like herb that grows 2-3 feet high, with small white flowers and pods that contain golden-brown, fragrant seeds. Also known as Methi, it likes full sun but cool temperatures and well-draining soil. It is difficult to transplant, so it is best sown directly after the last frost. Lightly cover the seeds and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Thin the plants to about 6 inches apart. They are quite drought-tolerant once established.
Fenugreek is one of the oldest recorded medicinal plants. Going back 6000 years, it has been used in various cultures as a tonic and laxative, as a remedy for menstrual cramps, menopause symptoms, skin conditions and kidney stones. It has long been known as a galactagogue that stimulates milk production during breastfeeding. Fenugreek seeds and powder have, for centuries, been employed in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines for their slightly sweet, maple-like taste and rich nutrition.
Modern-day research is indicating many possible additional benefits of Fenugreek, one of which is to help control diabetes and blood sugar levels. It might also aid in controlling appetite, reducing cholesterol levels, ameliorating heartburn burn and easing inflammation. Fenugreek seeds are used as dietary supplements for diabetes, menstrual cramps, to stimulate breastfeeding and to boost testosterone levels in men.
Fenugreek leaves are widely used as a cooked green, and Fenugreek seeds make tasty sprouts.
It takes about 4 months until the seed harvest. Here at Salt Spring Seeds, Fenugreek is our favourite seed to put in our seed packets because of its heavenly aroma.