Shalini Passi has been the talk of the town since her debut in Netflix's Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives. Recently, she was seen in the Bigg Boss 18 house, which is India's most popular reality TV show. During her time in the house and with the contestants, she revealed her go-to detox drink: methi seeds water mixed with mulethi (liquorice) powder. The 49-year-old claimed that the drink helps her maintain a balance between the hot and cold, which likely referred to the Ayurvedic belief that methi (fenugreek) seeds help regulate the body’s internal temperature. She goes on to say that it also helps aid her overall well-being.
But to see whether the drink lives up to Passi's health claim, we spoke to a dietitian.
Also Read: Fenugreek Seeds for Eczema: Here's How You Can Use Them for Relief
Does Methi Seeds Water Have Health Benefits?
Methi seeds, also known as fenugreek seeds, are a popular and traditional remedy used in medicine for centuries, according to Dr Preeti Nagar, Dietitian at NIIMS Medical College and Hospital (Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences).
"It is prepared by soaking fenugreek seeds in water overnight or just boiling them in water for a few minutes. They’re like little powerhouses of health," she told the OnlyMyHealth team.
Some of the key health benefits include:
Digestion: Methi seeds water is rich in soluble fibre, which helps in improving digestion. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help you relieve constipation, bloating, and gas. Methi water has digestive enzymes and a nutrient absorber.
Blood sugar control: Methi seeds water contains compounds like amino acids, and the regular consumption of it may help in improving insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes. Absorbing it may slow down your blood sugar level.
Supports weight loss: Methi seed water helps in reducing hunger and increases the feeling of fullness. The fibre and antioxidants in methi seed will enhance the metabolism, supporting weight loss.
Let’s take a more detailed look at the benefits of fenugreek or methi seed water.
How Does Methi Seeds Water Benefit Digestion?
There are several ways methi seed water can benefit the body, including digestive health.
Dr Nagar shared, “Methi seeds water relieves constipation by regulating bowel movements for the body to help and move things easily along with that; it reduces issues like bloating and constipation due to its properties like anti-inflammatory and amino acids. It also reduces symptoms like diarrhoea and abdominal pain.”
Also Read: Here’s Why Should You Drink Fenugreek Water Empty Stomach?
Weight And Hormonal Management With Methi Seeds Water; Possible?
Methi is rich in fibre, which not only aids digestive health but also supports weight loss. In one study with 18 obese participants, published in the Journal of the Saudi Society of Agricultural Sciences, researchers found that consuming 8 g of fenugreek fibre increased fullness, reduced hunger, and lowered food intake at lunch.
Dr Nagar agreed, saying that fenugreek has soluble fibre that can suppress the appetite and also boost the metabolism, which leads to weight loss. It also has insulin sensitivity, which reduces the risk of weight gain. “And if we talk about the hormonal balance, methi seeds are known to have phytoestrogens, which can help in regulating hormones, especially this is found in women. This is particularly useful during menstrual cycles and menopause too,” she added.
Does Methi Seeds Water Improve Skin Health?
The short answer to it is yes.
“Methi seed water is like a natural medicine for your skin,” says Dr Nagar, adding that it is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce skin irritation and redness and skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
It also detoxifies your body, leading to clear skin, and the vitamins and minerals in methi seeds can additionally lead to a healthy glow.
How Often Should You Have Methi Seeds Water?
Dr Nagar advised consuming methi seed water about 2-3 times a week.
Some prefer to have it daily, but especially if you have problems like digestion or hormonal balance,” she said, explaining the process, “Just soak 1-2 tablespoons of methi seed in water overnight and consume them on an empty stomach for better results. Consistency is the key, so try to be consistent with measurement and intake as well, and with a minimum of 2-3 months of regularity, you will notice your body and health. This way you give a boost to your body without overdoing it.”
However, it is also crucial to watch out for the quantity of the methi seed water you are having. Excessive amounts can lead to gas or bloating. This is why it's really important to start with a small quantity to know about your body. If you have any medical condition or are pregnant, it is best to consult with a doctor beforehand.