Fennel


Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare
Origins The ancient Greeks and Romans advocated the strongly flavored fennel seeds to give them strength, to ward off evil spirits, kill fleas, and sweeten the breath.
Description These graceful perennial plants are found in Europe, often by the sea, and have delicate bright green feathery foliage. Their bright tufts of yellow flowers attract the bees. As a herb, the fresh leaves are particularly valued for fish dishes whereas the seeds, which smell like aniseed, are used in liquorice. The sweet oil, which has a similar smell, is extracted from the crushed seeds.
Therapeutic effects Noted as a diuretic, and a mild laxative, fennel has been found effective for colic, constipation, digestive problems, kidney stones, menopausal problems, nausea and obesity. It is also often helpful for increasing milk yield during breast feeding.
Uses Massage. The sweet aromatic oil is mainly used for flavoring medicines to help flatulence and in digestion. It is a constituent of gripe water, and can be infused in teas.
Blending note Blends well with cypress, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemon, orange, rose, rosemary, sandalwood.
Cautionary note - Avoid to using without dilution.
- Do not use during pregnancy.
- In the large quantity it can be narcotic.
- Not suitable to apply on people suffering from epilepsy.
* This image is 'eye candy' it does not represent the actual plant.