Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) is originally from Europe & West Asia. Later it’s cultivation started in India & Mediterranean countries. In India, it is grown mainly in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, UP and Maharashtra. Kasuri Methi, an ancient spice in India is a common herb majorily used to add aroma and flavour to the dishes.
Fenugreek leaves have an earthy and mild sweet aroma and are slightly bitter to the taste.
How to prepare Kasuri Methi at home -
1. Buy fresh methi leaves ( make sure that the leaves are green only)
2. Pluck the leaves from the stem. ( also remove any rotten leaves)
3. Wash the leaves to remove dirt. (Light wash only )
4. In a big plate or muslin cloth, spread the leaves and put them to dry in sunlight.
5. Sun-dry them till they have turned crisp and all moisture have been evaporated.
Storage - Store them in an air-tight container. When stored in a cool and dry place at room temperature, the leaves can stay fresh for 1 month and if refrigerated, can stay fresh for 6 months.
Health benefits of Kasuri Methi
Kasuri Methi comes with a plethora of health benefits. Some of them are :
Reduces cholesterol
Kasuri methi can aid in lowering the production of LDL (bad cholesterol ) and triglycerides in your blood. Also, it helps in increasing the level of HDL (good cholesterol). As kasuri methi have only four calories per tablespoon its regular consumption would be quite beneficial. It has a strong effect on blood lipid levels, therefore it helps in lowering cholesterol in diabetic people and keeps various health problems away in non-diabetic ones.
Improves Flow of Milk for Mothers
Kasuri methi is a well-known natural galactagogue, that means the herb stimulates breast milk production in lactating mothers. Since years, seeds and leaves of the fenugreek has been used by lactating mothers to increase breast milk supply .
Good for heart
Kasuri methi have been found to reduce platelet aggression - a situation where the blood clumps together thus, reduces abnormal blood clotting which can lead to heart strokes.
Helps with Gastrointestinal Problems
Kasuri methi help in improving digestion as it has abundant antioxidant properties. Thus reduces the chances of gastrointestinal problems. It also contains a good amount of fibre that helps in easing constipation.
Beneficial For Skin
Kasuri methi helps in getting rid of skin blemishes. Some people apply a paste of kasuri methi to get remove the toxins present in the body and replacing dead cells with new cells. This may even aid in preventing skin problems like acne, pimples and sunburn.
Note : Before any usage check your skin type and sensitivity to kasuri methi.
Prevents respiratory problems
In winters, Kasuri Methi is especially used to keep respiratory problems at bay. It can cure allergies & congestion in the respiratory tract. Kasuri methi maintains the mucus level in the body, hence helps in lowering the risk of chronic respiratory diseases. It also acts as a throat cleanser and relieve the urge to cough.
Beneficial for hair
Kasuri Methi has antifungal and moisturizing properties that lessens the dryness of the scalp.
