FENUGREEK
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                                    CULTIVATION:
     Fenugreek  is  an annual plant up to  18  inches in height. It resembles a
     large  clover.  It has three-lobed-leaves  and white, triangular, pealike,
     flowers,  which  produce  the long seed  pods  characteristic  of the bean
     family.

     Fenugreek  needs  full sun, and fertile,  well drained, alkaline soil. Sow
     thickly  in  rows 9 inches apart in  spring for main crop, continue to sow
     throughout  summer  for  young salad leaves.  Thin  to 4 inches apart. The
     plant  is  difficult  to transplant. A  small  plant can be grown indoors.
     Germination time is only a few days, and plant flowers in about 3 weeks.

     Pick  young leaves as needed. Cut whole  plant in autumn. Harvest the pods
     when  fully  formed, but before they begin  to crack. Remove the seeds and
     dry them in the sun. You can also dry the leaves.



                                  CULINARY  USES:
     The seeds can be used as a spice in curries and chutneys.

     Toss sprouted seed leaves into salads. when fenugreek is 8 inches tall eat
     raw or boil or curry as a vegetable.



                                   MEDICAL USES:
     Fenugreek  has a mild anti-inflammatory action, which can be used to treat
     wounds,  arthritis, and other inflammation. This was confirmed by research
     done in Belgian. The soothing mucilage in fenugreek may be of some help in
     relieving  sore  throat pain, coughs, and  minor indigestion. Take it as a
     decoction  to take advantage of its many potential healing benefits. For a
     bitter  maple flavored decoction, gently boil 2 teaspoons of bruised seeds
     per cup of water. Simmer for 10 minutes, and drink up to 3 cups a day. You
     might  improve  the  taste  by  adding  sugar,  honey,  lemon,  anise,  or
     peppermint. You can also use it as a gargle.

     Studies on animals showed fenugreek reduces blood sugar levels. The effect
     has  not  been  demonstrated  in humans,  and  diabetics  should get their
     doctor's  approval  before  trying  it to  see  if  it helps control their
     glucose.  Other  animal  studies showed  it  will  also reduce cholesterol
     levels.For boils and sores, apply a poultice of pulverized fenugreek seeds
     to reduce inflammation and improve local healing.Grind the seeds coarsely,
     infuse  and  drink  as  a tonic tea  to  stimulate  the digestion and ease
     coughing, flatulence and diarrhea.


                                      WARNING:
     Fenugreek  may  be a uterine stimulant it  should not be taken by pregnant
     women.


                                   COSMETIC USES:
     Fenugreek can be used as a complexion wash.