Fennel Scientific Name
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel Other Names
English: Fennel
French: Fenouil
German: Fenchel
Spanish: Hinojo
Latin: faeniculi
Hindi: Saumph, Saunf
Sanskrit: Shatapushpa
French: Fenouil
German: Fenchel
Spanish: Hinojo
Latin: faeniculi
Hindi: Saumph, Saunf
Sanskrit: Shatapushpa
What is Fennel?
Fennel is obtained from the flowering plant species in the carrot family and consist of hardy, perennial herb with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. All parts of this plant including the bulb, stalk, leaves, seeds are edible and are used to add flavor in foods. Flavor of Fennel leaves is much similar to Dill.
The vitamin and mineral content in fennel like phosphate and calcium are important in bone structure; Iron and Zinc are critical for the production and maturation of collagen; Manganese is present for the formation of bone matrix. Fennel also consist of Vitamin A which helps improving the calcium absorption and may reduce the excretion of calcium in urine.
In Ayurveda, fennel is used for it’s estrogenic properties that promotes menstruation, healthy libido and milk secretion (in nursing mothers). It has Hepatoprotective (prevents liver damage), anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties (against Helicobacter pylori) that prevents gastro-intestinal disorders and infections.
Common forms of Fennel
Dry seeds, Powder, Capsule, Tea & infused water
Fennel is commonly used for:
- Anger and Hostility
- Acidity and Heartburn
- Food Allergies
- Breastfeeding Problems
- Promoting heart health
- Colds and Flu
- Cancer-fighting properties
- Reducing inflammation
- Boosting mental health
- Eye Irritation
- Overeating
- Reducing the risk of upper respiratory tract infections
- Easing cramping during diarrhea/dysentry or mild stomach upsets
- Easing the cramping pain during menstruation (in some cases)
- Flatulence
- Fever
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Fennel Dosage
Seeds: ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day
Powder: ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day
Capsules: 1 to 2 capsule twice a day
Fennel Side-effects and Warnings
Common side-effects: Excessive consumption may cause difficulty breathing, tightness of chest/throat, chest pain, mild increase in menstrual flow.
Not so common side-effects: Over- consumption of Fennel might cause a seizure.
Pregnant and nursing mothers: Avoid using fennel preparations other than fennel honey and fennel seed infusions during pregnancy.
Children: Recommended to use only fennel honey.
Not so common side-effects: Over- consumption of Fennel might cause a seizure.
Pregnant and nursing mothers: Avoid using fennel preparations other than fennel honey and fennel seed infusions during pregnancy.
Children: Recommended to use only fennel honey.
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