Caffeine free. Originating in the Mediterranean region and Asia, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is one of the oldest herbs known. Its seeds were highly praised for their beneficial uses in ancient Egypt and India and later among the Greeks and Romans. The seeds were also used to produce a yellow dye for coloring wool. As Fenugreek spread around the Mediterranean, ancient physicians learned that its seeds contained a great deal of mucilage and when mixed with water provided many health benefits. The most common uses of Fenugreek today are culinary, such as providing a maple flavor for confectioneries, an ingredient of curry powders, and as an enhancement for meats, poultry, and marinated vegetables.