Foeniculum vulgare
Common names: Fennel, Common Fennel, Sweet Fennel
Family: Apiaceae
Parts used: Dried fruit. Leaves, stems and root may also be used.
Habitat: Native to southern Europe but naturalised globally in temperate regions. Harvest in Autumn while dried fruit are still green.
History /Folklore/Taste/Energetics: Sweet, warming, dry, pungent and aromatic.
Constituents: Volatile oils (up to 6%) including anethole, fenchone and methyl chavicol. Flavonoids including rutin, quercetin and kaempherol glycosides. Coumarins, sterols, phenolic compounds, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
Actions: Carminative, Aromatic, Orexigenic, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Diuretic, Galactogogue, Stomachic, Mild Expectorant
Traditional and current uses:
• Colic
• Flatulent dyspepsia
• Flatulence
• Indigestion
• Anorexia
• Intestinal cramps
• Combined with laxatives to reduce griping
• Bloating
• Cystitis
• Increase breast milk production
• Reduce colic in babies via breast milk or via teaspoon-full amounts of infusion to the baby before feeding
• Topically the tea can be used as an eyewash for conjunctivitis and blepharitis.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.
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