Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare

A versatile herb from the kitchen to the apothecary, fennel is traditionally used in herbalism to relieve occasional gas and bloating and support breastmilk production in nursing moms.

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Bitter Fennel

Family Name Apiaceae

Parts Used Bulb, Fruit (seed), Leaf

Herbal Actions Carminative, Galactagogue

Health Benefits Digestion, Pre & Postnatal

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A flavorful herb providing support from digestion to motherhood.

Many ancient cultures throughout history have revered fennel for its charming properties. They believed in its power to bestow long life, courage, strength, and even to ward off evil spirits – all of which may have been hints to the plant’s actual benefits.

In India, Ayurvedic healers praised fennel for its ability to balance the three body types, or doshas. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, practitioners used fennel as a warming herb to help maintain digestive health. In the Mediterranean region, fennel’s native home, ancient physicians like Hippocrates, Pliny the Elder, and Dioscorides praised fennel for its ability to soothe occasional indigestion and to help support mothers in the production of breastmilk.

While fennel seeds are most commonly used in herbalism, every part of fennel, from “bulb” (technically not a bulb, but enlarged, overlapping petioles or bases of the leaves) and stem to leaf and seed has found its way into culinary creations around the world. Sliced into rounds and soaked in simple syrup, fennel stems make for sweet, black licorice-y flavored after-meal candies. Its bulb can be sautéed or baked as a side dish in and of itself or slivered and eaten raw atop salad. Find its seeds stuffed into sausages and bread doughs such as a classic rye loaf. Have you ever been served a spoonful of dried fennel seeds after a rich meal at an Indian restaurant? This classic tradition is the perfect marriage of flavor and function!

Given its relationship to the digestive system and unique flavor, it’s no surprise fennel is infused into so many mealtime traditions.

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Important Precautions

Avoid fennel if you are allergic to plants in the parsley (Apiaceae) family. Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Legal Disclaimer

The information and other content in this article are designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

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Products that contain Fennel

Fennel Tea

Mother's Milk® Tea

Belly Comfort® Peppermint Tea

Smooth Move® Chamomile Tea

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