Common Name: Fennel Seeds

Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)

Parts Used: Seeds, leaves, and bulbs

Native Region: Mediterranean region

Taste (Rasa): Sweet (Madhura), bitter (Tikta)

Energy (Veerya): Cooling (Sheet)

Post-Digestive Effect (Vipaka): Sweet (Madhura)

Doshas: Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas

Chemical Composition: Fennel seeds contain essential oils, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and fatty acids.

Traditional Uses:

• Digestive Health: Fennel seeds are commonly used to promote digestion and alleviate digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion.
• Respiratory Health: Fennel seeds are believed to help alleviate respiratory issues like coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
• Women’s Health: Fennel seeds are commonly used to alleviate menstrual cramps and other symptoms of menstrual disorders. They are also believed to help increase breast milk production in lactating mothers.
• Eye Health: Fennel seeds are thought to help improve eye health and alleviate eye disorders like conjunctivitis.

Modern Uses:

• Fennel seeds are used in the food and beverage industry as a flavoring agent in various dishes and beverages, including teas, liquors, and baked goods.
• Fennel seeds are used in some natural and traditional medicine systems for various health benefits.
• Fennel essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing effects.

Precautions/ Side Effects:

• Fennel seeds may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
• High doses of fennel seeds may have toxic effects and can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and seizures.
• Pregnant women should avoid consuming large amounts of fennel seeds as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Fennel seeds may interact with certain medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using fennel seeds for medicinal purposes.