The production of fenugreek in India is marked by its dominant position in world production and export. Within India Rajasthan accounts for its largest cropped area and production. The fenugreek plant is an annual herbaceous forage legume with aroma, which is used for food in the form of its seeds as spices, and its leaves as a vegetable. It is also used as a medicinal herb in several Ayurvedic formulations for treatment of dry skin, boils, hair loss and so forth.Fenugreek's seed or pulse is used as a spice and its leaves used as a herb, and also as an admixture in condiments and to flavour food. Its pods and leaves are used as vegetables, as the leaves are rich in protein, minerals and Vitamin C.[2][10]In North India and Punjab, fresh fenugreek leaf is used in culinary dishes. In its dried form it is used like any other spice. Seed is also sprouted and used.[4] Various health benefits are claimed for fenugreek.[2][12][3] The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia has reported fenugreek's usefulness as a demulcent and to reduce the level of blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Its reported use is also as "an adjuvant in therapies for diabetes mellitus, anorexia, and high cholesterol". It can also be used as a mild antiseptic, as confirmed by the German Commission.[3]
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