The seeds’ aroma and taste are strong, sweetish, and somewhat bitter, reminiscent of burnt sugar. They are commonly ground and used as a spice and may also be mixed with flour for bread or eaten raw or cooked. Traditionally considered an aid to digestion, the seeds have been used as an internal emollient for inflammation of the digestive tract, and they have been used as an external poultice for boils and abscesses. Fenugreek is sometimes used to promote milk production in lactating women.
The herb is a characteristic ingredient in some curries and chutneys and is used to make imitation maple syrup. It is eaten as a vegetable in some places and is used as fodder in northern Africa