Fenugreek

Trigonella foenum-graecum

Historical tradition – not medical advice, and no health or healing claims. more

Historical botanical drawing: Fenugreek — Fenugreek

Tradition (Hildegard's writings)

In Hildegard's tradition, fenugreek was associated with the heart and circulation.

Ingredients

The seeds and the juice of the plant; the older tradition names the herb as well.

Botanical background

Griechenklee is the German name under which fenugreek is listed here; the sources use both names side by side and give the botanical name as Trigonella foenum-graecum. It is chiefly the seed that is used, though Hildegard also mentions the herb gathered in summer. The seed is unusually rich in mucilage – the specialist literature gives figures of up to 45 per cent – and carries protein and free amino acids besides, with a share of lysine that is notable for a plant; to these are added bioflavonoids, bitter principles, tannins and only a small amount of essential oil. In the Physica fenugreek has its chapter among the plants of the first book, where Hildegard sets it down as more cold than warm and describes the seed being warmed in wine.

Sources & references

Strehlow, Wighard: Der Hildegard-Kompass. Die wichtigsten Heilmittel und Anwendungen. Knaur Verlag 2014.
Hildegard von Bingen: Heilsame Schöpfung. Die natürliche Wirkkraft der Dinge (Physica). Hrsg. von der Abtei St. Hildegard, Eibingen. Beuroner Kunstverlag 2012 (4. Auflage 2024). Cap. 1-36.

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More preparations using Fenugreek

Fenugreek Powder Blend (“Heart Powder”) Fenugreek Tablets (“Heart Pills”)

Historical tradition. The above describes how this preparation was recorded and used in the tradition of Hildegard of Bingen. This is cultural-historical information, not medical advice and not a health or healing claim, and it is no substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. If you have health complaints, please consult your doctor or pharmacy.

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