Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an annual plant in the family Fabaceae with leaves consisting of three small obovate to oblong leaflets. There is evidence that fenugreek has been cultivated in Western Asia as long ago as 4000 BC and its seeds were among the items recovered from the burial tomb of Tutankhamun. Powdered fenugreek seeds can be used as a spice to season, they have a strong aroma and a bitter taste. Fresh fenugreek leaves are used as an ingredient in some Indian curry dishes and in the production of the mouth-watering methi paratha (an Indian flatbread). Fenugreek contains many beneficial compounds such as protein, fiber, vitamin C, niacin, potassium, iron and alkaloids.