Fennel- Foeniculum vulgare
Parts used – Seeds, Leaves & Roots
Actions – Antibacterial, Anti-emetic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antitussive, carminative, digestive , diuretic , expectorant, mild Laxative, hormone balancing , stimulant.
Digestion
Fennel improves energy by enhancing appetite, digestion & absorption. It aids the digestion of fatty foods. It’s stabilises blood sugar levels & reduces sugar cravings. By increasing metabolism & elimination it may aid weight loss. Fennel seed & roots are antispasmodic & settle the stomach. They relieve hiccups, Colic, bloating , wind, nausea, vomiting, hallitosis, indigestion, heartburn & IBS.
As a digestive aid, either chew a handful of seeds or try an infusion or tincture. To make a pleasant licorice-flavored infusion, use 1 or 2 teaspoons of bruised seeds per cup of boiling water, steep for 10 mins. Drink up to 3 cup a day.
Urinary System
As a diuretic, fennel aids the elimination of toxins via the kidneys & reduces fluid retention. It can be used for cellulite, cystitis & urinary infection. It can also help to dissolve kidney stones.
Respiratory System
In a hot tea , Fennel serves as a decongestant & expectorant. It relaxes the bronchi & is useful in asthma & coughs.
Reproductive system.
Fennel’s antispasmodic properties help relieve period pains. It can help regulate the menstrual cycle & is also helpful during menopause. In nursing mothers you might find it difficult to either commence milk production or to maintain a high enough level of production when breastfeeding, Fennel along with other herb can help with this.( see below Tea blend )
Other uses.
Use a wash of warm fennel tea for conjunctivitis & other eye inflammation. For earache or mild inflammation use a few drops of warm fennel tea.
Recipes
Breastfeeding Tea
Fennel Seed 1 part
Caraway Seed 1 part
Aniseed 1 part
Crush 2 tablespoonfuls of the seeds & put them in a cup of cold water. Bring it to simmer & then remove from heat. Leave to stand for 10 mins. Drink a cup of this tea 3 times daily.
Four Winds Tea – Flatulence
The herbs have an anti-spasmodic effect that relaxes the gut, so gas escapes & bloating is relieved.
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp caraway seeds
1 tsp chopped peppermint leaves
1 tsp chamomile flowers
Crush the fennel & caraway seeds & combine with peppermint & chamomile keep in a air tight jar, use 1-2 tsp of the mix with mug of hot water, leave to steep for 10 mins drink up to 3 cups a day.
Respiratory Tonic Tea
This blend is an effective & tasty tea for building strong health lungs. It is especially helpful for children who have recurring respiratory problems such as colds, flu, hay fever, asthma, ear infections & general congestion.
4 parts Fennel
4 part rosehip
2 parts lemongrass
1 part calendula
1 part coltsfoot
1 part mullein
1 part red clover flower.
Combine all together & store in airtight container. Use 1-2 tablespoon in hot water , leave to steep for 10 mins & enjoy.
Green Blessing – Laura x