Fenugreek is an erect annual herb growing about 2 feet high. Women in harems would eat Fenugreek seeds in the belief that they would become more desirable. Today, Fenugreek is known to support the respiratory system. Fenugreek relieves congestion, reduces inflammation and fights infection. Fenugreek contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, and loosens & removes excess mucus and phlegm. Fenugreek is also an excellent source of selenium, an anti-radiant which helps the body utilize oxygen. Fenugreek is a natural source of iron, silicon, sodium and thiamine. Fenugreek contains mucilagins which are known for soothing and relaxing inflamed tissues. Fenugreek stimulates the production of mucosal fluids helping remove allergens and toxins from the respiratory tract. Acting as an expectorant, Fenugreek alleviates coughing, stimulates perspiration to reduce fevers, and is beneficial for treating allergies, bronchitis and congestion. The steroidal saponins account for many of the beneficial effects of Fenugreek, particularly the inhibition of cholesterol absorption and synthesis. The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which may be the main reason it can lower blood sugar levels in diabetes. |
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Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region of Europe, and is extensively cultivated in the United States. The genus name Thymus may be derived from the Greek "thymon", meaning "to fumigate", as it has been used for centuries as an popular incense. Oil of Thyme was used during World War I to treat infection and to help relieve pain. The part of this plant used medicinally is the above ground portion. The primary chemical constituents of Thyme include essential oil, bitter principle, tannin, flavonoids, saponins, and triterpenic acids. Small amounts of this herb are sedative, whereas larger amounts are stimulant. Thyme is used against hookworm, roundworms, and threadworms. Thyme also warms and stimulates the lungs, expels mucus, and relieves congestion. It also helps deter bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Both constituents thymol and carvacrol have a relaxing effect upon the gastrointestinal tract's smooth muscles. This herb has had many culinary uses over the years, including its use in soups, stews, vegetables, chicken, jams, fruit salads, bouquet garnishes, gumbos, and Benedictine liqueur. Thyme aids in the digestion of high fat foods, and has been used to preserve meat. Thyme honey, made when bees collect pollen from Thyme flowers, is excellent. Known topical applications include its use as a gargle & mouthwash for dental decay, laryngitis, mouth sores, plaque formation, sore throat, thrush, tonsillitis, and bad breath. Thyme has been used as a compress for lung congestion such as asthma, bronchitis, colds and flu, and as a poultice for wounds, mastitis, insect bites and stings.
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