Fennel also known as ‘spice of angels’, belonging to the Apiaceae family is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. The plant grows up to 8 feet tall and is sweetly scented.
Fennel is widely used as a culinary herb to season sauces, salads, vegetables, bread, stir-fries, pies etc. Finely chopped stems and leaves are used as herbal stuffing as well as to add flavor to marinades.
Fennel is also believed to help relieve pre-menstrual cramps and other such disorders. The essential volatile oils in the plant are known to enhance food absorption in the body and help treat digestion related disorders. It is considered to be antiseptic and is believed to help in curing urinary infections. The herb is also an excellent detoxification agent that enables quick evacuation of body wastes. Application of Fennel oil can aid in reducing joint pains, helps in treating arthritis, abdominal pains, toothache and earache. Fennel seeds are known to be of great help in dealing with kidney-stone problems.
The entire Fennel plant including stems, leaves, fruits, and roots is edible. Fennel is used in gripe water to relieve colic and is also known to help in heartburn and constipation.
Some people may not be able to tolerate Fennel very well and may experience a few side effects upon consuming the herb. Fennel has estrogenic properties and hence is not recommended for pregnant women.
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