- What is it for
- How to use fennel
- 1. Fennel tea
- 2. Essential oil
- Possible side effects
- Who should not use
Fennel, also known as green anise, anise and white pimpinella, is a medicinal plant in the Apiaceae family that is about 50 cm tall, composed of cracked leaves, white flowers and dried fruits containing a single seed, with a sweet taste and intense aroma.
This plant has the scientific name of Pimpinella anisum and is popularly used for gastritis, abdominal bloating, poor digestion, gas and headache due to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antidispeptic properties.
Fennel is also used in cosmetic and perfumery products, and can be found in different forms, such as dry extract and oil, in markets, street markets, health food stores and handling pharmacies. Fennel is often confused with fennel and star anise, but these are different plants with different properties. See more details about the properties of star anise and what the benefits are.
What is it for
Fennel is a medicinal plant widely used to treat conditions such as:
- Bellyache; Headache; Poor digestion; Abdominal bloating; Muscle spasms; Menstrual cramps; Inflammation in the mouth and throat; Cough, flu, cold, phlegm, runny nose.
This plant has the capacity to reduce the effects of fermentation of food in the intestine, such as the production of gases, so it can be used to relieve the discomfort caused by the increase of these gases in the intestine. Fennel is also indicated in some cases to reduce blood sugar levels and decrease hot flashes, which are common during menopause.
In addition, studies show that fennel has antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticonvulsant and antispasmodic properties and insect repellent, and can be used against the proliferation of dengue mosquitoes, for example.
How to use fennel
Fennel is sold in different forms, such as dried fruit extract and essential oil and can be used as:
1. Fennel tea
Fennel tea serves to improve flu and cold symptoms, such as cough, runny nose and phlegm. This tea is also well known for stimulating the production of breast milk.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of dried fennel; 1 cup of water.
How to use
To prepare the tea you must boil the water, then put this water in a cup together with the fennel. Then, cover and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes and then strain and drink afterwards.
Fennel can also be used in sweet recipes, such as cakes and cookies. When used in capsule form it should be used according to the guidance of the doctor or herbalist.
2. Essential oil
Fennel essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy to regulate female hormones and reduce menstrual cramps and decrease menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, for example.
This oil can also be used as a muscle relaxant and soothing, through massage with 2 drops of essential oil mixed with almond oil. In addition, to improve coughing and runny nose, you can put 3 drops of fennel essential oil in a bowl of boiling water and breathe the evaporated air.
Possible side effects
Fennel generally does not cause any side effects, especially if used in adequate amounts, but in some rare cases, nausea, vomiting and allergic reactions can occur when consumed in excess.
Who should not use
Fennel is contraindicated for women with breast cancer, as it changes female hormones, such as estrogen and this can influence the treatment of cancer. This plant should also be avoided by people who supplement with iron, as it can impair the absorption of this nutrient.
