Methika is an herbal plant cultivated in India and South European countries. This plant grows to a length of 30 – 60 cm, has branches and tapering roots. Its leaves are trifoliate and small sized. The flower blooms white in color having solitary axils. Seeds are brown yellowish and have angular or cubic shape up to the size of 3 mm. Many of the Indian kitchens are empty if they don’t have Methika on their shelves. In English, it is termed Fenugreek seeds. It is used in preparing many food items like curries, dal or parathas. Apart from nutrition, there are many medicinal factors also present in Methika. Here are some of the benefits of Methika that cover many diseases:
1. Controls blood cholesterol levels
There has been much research with various products to reduce Low-Density Lipoprotein in the human body. The seeds of Methika have shown great results, as it contains Saponin that helps to prevent and reduce absorption of triglycerides and cholesterol in the human body. It is a natural remedy for reducing the of Cholesterol in the body.
2. Prevents Heart Diseases
Galactomannan is present in Methika that maintains and balances the function of the heart. There is also a high amount of potassium in Methika that reduces sodium and helps in controlling the blood pressure and heart rate. Now many of the medicines use Methika as their base product.
3. Maintains blood sugar levels
Diabetes patients should include Methika leaves or seeds in their daily diet. The presence of Galactomannan is a soluble fiber that decreases the absorption of sugar in the blood. It also contains amino acids that aid in insulin production. Methika laddoo or sweets can also be prepared at home for daily consumption.
4. Gives better Digestion
It contains rich fiber, which easily dissolves in the body and acts as an antioxidant that flushes all the harmful chemicals. With this cleansing, the digestive system functions better. Methika is very good if someone is suffering from frequent stomach pain. In the event of constipation, drinking Methika decoction in the morning brings instant relief.
5. Counters heartburns and acidic reflux
Only one teaspoon of Methika seed in regular diet is enough for reducing heartburns or acid reflux. The seeds coat the stomach lining and intestines for soothing irritated tissues. Just before consuming the seeds soak the seeds in water to make it easy to chew. Seeds can be taken with lunch as well as dinner.
6. Helps reduce weight
Methika weight reduction process involves soaking Methika seeds at night and eating it 30 minutes before Breakfast. The fiber present in the seeds fills the stomach and reduces hunger. The body will absorb extra fat and the weight will go down even without any exercise.
7. Helps in skin problems
Medications for removing blackheads, wrinkles or pimples are expensive and not uniformly effective. Methika helps with that. Put some Methika seeds in boiling water, let it cool and wash the face with it. It will clear the blackheads and make the skin smooth. A stronger treatment is to use a pack of Methika leave and apply it for 20 minutes. Water, boiled with Methika seeds, can also be mixed in bath water for persons having skin problems.
8. Solution for your hair problems
Methika in the diet will help with hair problems also. If one does not like the taste of Methika, then one can soak boiled seeds of Methika in coconut oil at night and then massage hair with it in the morning. It cleans the scalp and strengthens the roots of hair. It is also very suitable for cleaning dandruff from hair and scalp.
9. Treating scars and skin inflammation
Methika has the acting agent of Vitamin C which aids in treating skin problems – eczema, burns and boils. An application of the paste of Methika seeds on the infected area for few weeks gives great results.
10. Fever and Sore throat remedy
Those suffering from fever may take seeds of Methika with a teaspoon of honey and lemon. It works instantly by nourishing the whole system. The presence of mucilage helps to relieve pain due to a cough and sore throats. It may be consumed twice in such condition – once in the morning and the second before sleeping.
11. Increases the production of breast milk
Methika contains Diosgenin which is very helpful in increasing breast milk production for lactating mothers.
12. Helps reduce discomfort during menstrual cycle
Methika is rich in Diosgenin, Oestrogen, and Isoflavones that reduce menstrual cramps. These constituents also help reduce menopause symptoms, mood fluctuations, and hot flashes.
