Fennel seed is a gentle digestive aid that has a pleasant licorice taste and aroma. It can be used as a flavouring in baked goods and desserts. Fennel offers these health benefits due to its active ingredients, like the essential oils contained inside the seeds.
Top Medicinal Constituents Found in Fennel Seeds
There are over 28 compounds that have been identified in fennel seeds. These medicinal compounds include anethole, fenchone, methyl chavicol, and limonene, to name a few. These constituents are what give fennel its amazing health benefits. In animal and test-tube studies, they found that the organic compound anethole has antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, plus it protects against unhealthy cell growth.
Key Health Benefits of Fennel
As mentioned above, fennel is a great digestive-supporting supplement. It decreases that “heavy” feeling you get in your stomach after eating a large meal by promoting movement in the gastrointestinal tract. Ironically, it also decreases intestinal spasms when it is taken in larger quantities.
In the respiratory tract, the essential oils decrease mucus secretions and increase the activity of the little hairs that line the tract. The hairs are responsible for moving mucus out of the lungs and up to the throat where it can be expectorated.
Fennel seed is recommended by natural health practitioners for a variety of concerns including:
- Coughs
- Colds
- Allergies (Environmental)
- Indigestion and Diarrhea
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
- Menstrual Cramps
Different Varieties of Fennel Supplements
Fennel seeds are usually crushed or ground to release the essential oils (medicinal ingredients). They can be purchased loose, in tea bags or encapsulated. Fennel may be found in formulas for soothing the digestive tract or decreasing coughs.
Potential Side Effects & Cautions To Consider
It has been reported that fennel can lead to allergic bronchial and skin reactions but these reactions are rare. Fennel essential oil is a concentrated form of fennel. All essential oils carry an increased risk of toxicity when they are used internally and should not be given to pregnant women or children.
