Foeniculum Vulgare
( Fennel, member of the Umbelliferae/Apiceae family )
Medicinal Preparation
Infusion: Bruise 1oz of seeds per pint of boiling
water poured over the seeds. Let steep for at least 5 to 10 minutes then strain. Drink to relieve
flatulence.
Decoction: 1oz of root per pint of boiling
water for 15 to 20 minutes is an excellent diuretic and recommended for kidney and bladder disorders.
Parts Used
Seeds which are the most medicinal because of the concentration (8%) of volatile oils
(about 80% anethole, plus fenchone, and methyl chavicol). They also contain flavonoids,
coumarins, and sterols. Leaves contain the same volatile oil but to a lesser amount
Active properties
- Antispasmodic
- Aromatic
- Carminative
- Diuretic
- Expectorant
- Galactagogue
- Laxative
- Sedative
- Stimulant
- Stomach Tonic
The volatile oil relieves gas and is an antispasmodic. However DO NOT take the essential oil
internally.
Medicinal Uses
- Bladder Irritation
- Colic
- Diabetes
- Diarrhea
- Eye Strain
- Fever
- Flatulence
- Gout
- Hiccups
- Indigestion
- Increases Lactation
- Jaundice
- Kidney Stones
- Laryngitis
- Mouthwash or Gargle for gum disease and sore throat
- Nausea
- Obesity
- Rheumatism
- Stomachache
- Teething
- Urinary Disorders
- Wheezing
Tea of seeds is used as an eyewash for eyestrain. Poultice herb is used in facial steams
anti-wrinkle creams perfume toothpaste and soup. Oil and liniment used for muscular toning.
Gargle for hoarseness. Fennel has a long history of use as a remedy for ailments of the digestive
tract.
Other
The seeds were eaten in medieval times as a flavoring, and during lent to allay hunger. It
also helps to disperse congestion in the liver. It is a naturally sweet flavor that
stabilizes blood sugar levels. Fennel is believed to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive
tract.
