This herb helps with milk production in nursing mothers. It has really boosted my wife's lactation! I'd like to try to grow some in containers. Does anybody have any? All suggestions are appreciated.
Has anyone ever grown Fenugreek?
http://www.amazon.com/Certified-Organic-Fenugreek-Sprouting-Seed/dp/B000N9CNLM
Googled and found the see at Amazon. very inexpensive
Thanks for the link Christi Lou! Do you know anything about growing Fenugreek?
No, I don't. If you google there is a ton of information. I believe this is the first I have heard of it.
Broncbuster ~ I don't grow this plant but in light of your question, I have been researching quite a few of my herbal books. I was surprised to discover this was a key ingredient in Lydia E. Pinkhams vegetable compound. Todays version is minus the fenugreek.
It is apparently easily grown. Southern Herb Growing recommends growing from seed in early spring. Planting in a sunny well drained location. It will grow 2 ft tall producing yellow to white flowers. It will mature quickly into seed, about 3 weeks. Harvest seedpods as soon as mature (another 3 weeks ) and cure in paper bags. It sounds as though this can become a bit invasive should the seeds not be harvested. To prevent root rot, do not overwater.
Should you start some seed, please take a photo and add to the PlantFiles. There are no photos available there. The medicinal Fenugreek is Trigonella foenum-graecum.
Uses include sprouting seeds in salad for nutrition and flavor. Some research shows possible benefits to cholesterol control, sore throat, arthritis and possible blood sugar control.
May I ask where you heard about it for lactation and what dose your wife used? The reason I ask is ~ although the FDA generally regards Fenugreek as safe, it is not recommended for pregnant or nursing females. The reason being the herb can be passed on to the fetus or nursing child but in larger doses than their fragile system can process.
It is possible it aided in milk production as it causes water retention thus helping lactation. Perhaps hydrating with fluids other than caffiene based would have a similar effect.
You may try posting an inquiry in the Herbs forum. http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/f/herbs/all/
I find there are many knowlegable and helpful folks there too. Best wishes... pod
Thanks for the awsome info Pod! I'll have to find the webpage I was reading.
Good luck ~ let us know what you find. And if you grow some, please post a photo. I'd like to see it... pod
Will do(~:
Here it is!
http://www.fourfriends.com/abrw/Articles/fen.htm
I suspect it is a generic warning but http://www.kellymom.com/herbal/herbal_safety.html with a little one, it pays to be careful.
Yours was an interesting link, thank you...
I sent that link to my wife. Thanks ,Pod!
She's been using Fenugreek for 4 wks with no adverse reactions from her or my boy. but, you're right, you can't be too careful with kids.