Fennel seeds are a common sight in the Indian kitchen. Their aroma is breathtaking. Though both aniseed and fennel are called saunf in ‘Hindi’, fennel is somewhat larger than aniseed. Commonly used for seasoning and garnishing in Indian cuisines, this seed has other uses as well.
* Chewing a spoonful of fennel sees or saunf after meals will prevent bad breath, hence very effective as a breath freshener.
* A decoction of fennel and water helps in relieving colic in babies.
* It also aids in regulating menstrual irregularities.
* A tea made with a few fresh sprigs of fennel or a teaspoon of seeds will relieve indigestion; also useful for flatulence and constipation.
* It treats respiratory congestion effectively, hence a common ingredient in cough remedies.
* A tea made from fennel helps to stimulate the flow of breast milk.
* An infusion makes a soothing eyewash.
* The oil from the seeds is also used in perfumery and for scenting soaps.
* Powdered fennel has the effect of driving away fleas from kennels and stables.
* A decoction of the leaves and root is good for serpent bites and also to neutralize vegetable poison such as in mushrooms, etc.
Thanks for the really good information on this wonderful spice!
ReplyDeleteFennel for regulating menstrual irregularities? Now that's new. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHi Anonymous, you can also check this post for menstrual irregularities.
ReplyDeleteFennel Seeds (Sauf) are very effective for digestive problems. These seeds can be chewed upon or had as a tea concoction for beneficial effects upon the stomach. In India, these are routinely chewed upon after meals to aid in digestion after a rich meal while acting as a herbal mouth freshener.
ReplyDeleteFennel seeds often provide quick and effective relief from many digestive disorders. They help to overcome gas, cramps, acid indigestion, and many other digestive tract maladies.
Its antispasmodic properties which relax smooth muscles in the digestive tract also help with uterine contractions. In high doses it has been used to promote menstruation. This mild estrogenic quality must have been the reason for its traditional use in promoting the production of milk in nursing mothers. In older women it can be used to naturally alleviate some of the discomforts of menopause.
ReplyDelete- Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties
ReplyDelete- Promotes healthy digestion and calms upset stomachs
- May help protect against cancer and liver disease
- Excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants
- Alleviates the symptoms of upper respiratory infections
- May relieve menstrual cramps, increase milk secretion in nursing mothers and regulate hormonal change during menopause
Pregnant or nursing mothers should not take fennel. Neither give it to small children, or take it for extended time yourself. A few cases of asthmatic and allergic reactions have been reported as well.
ReplyDeleteFennel seeds contain good amount of calories, protein, fat, vitamin A, calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin C, niacin, phosphorous and sodium.
ReplyDeleteFennel essential oil is used for its soothing, cleansing and toning effects on the skin, while at the same time improving circulation and fighting water retention and puffiness.
ReplyDeletefennel seeds can be chewed by themselves, made into tea or used in cooking.
ReplyDeletefennel has a nice black licorice flavor
health wise fennel is used to break up gas and to freashen breath
so you can chew a few seeds after a meal or like chewing gum
a cup of tea (1 tsp seeds to 1pot of water) will calm the stomach and aid in digestion, as well break up any gas bubbles.
or can be added to dishes with foods that are typically gassy
like boiled cabage, a couple seed added to the boiling water adds flavor and reduces gas.
fennel also works on colic in infants(diluted of course)
It relieves digestive complaints in infants and children
ReplyDeleteFennel oil is one of the most effective aromatherapy oils for reducing bloating. Blend 2 drops of the oil in 1 ounce of sweet-almond oil. Gently rub your abdomen with the oil to ease swelling and gas.
ReplyDelete