Yellow fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Common name: Fenugreek herb Scientific name: Trigonella foenum-graecum • An annual herb from the legume family, with a hollow stem reaching up to 60 cm in height, and small branches ending in three serrated leaves, known for its health benefits and nutritional value. Uses and benefits: • Its seeds, rich in healthy elements, contain proteins, phosphorus, starchy substances, as well as choline and trigonelline, inositol, and iron. The seeds used medicinally also contain a gummy substance, fixed oils, and an essential oil similar to anise oil. The flower: • Its small flowers are yellow and emerge from the leaf stalk. The fruit and seeds: • When the flowers grow, they turn into curved pods up to 10 cm long, inside each of which are the yellow fenugreek seeds. Native homeland: • Used in ancient Egypt during the time of the Pharaohs, it appeared as a local herb in the region between Pakistan and Iraq, until it spread and reached most African and Asian countries. Suitable climatic conditions and soil for cultivation: • Grows in cold weather, cultivated in light, loamy clay soil or well-drained, aerated sandy soil that is not salty. Method and timing of cultivation: • Reproduces by seeds, and the best time to plant it is during the winter season.