Fennel is a very widely used culinary herb and medicinal plant. Both the bulb and the seeds of a fennel plant have a mild licorice like flavour. Aside from its culinary uses, fennel and its seeds offer a wide array of health benefits. It is an anti oxidant, is anti inflammatory and has anti bacterial effects. They are packed with numerous nutrients and contain a number of powerful plant compounds. Fennel seeds are also called miracle seeds with extensive use in ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicines. India is the largest fennel producing nation in the world.
Nutritional facts
- Fennel bulb
- Is very high in fibre
- Contains potassium and vitamin C in more quantity than the seeds
- Fennel seeds
- Contains calcium, manganese, iron and magnesium
- Both the bulb and the seeds contain copper, zinc and folate
Benefits of fennel seeds in weight loss
- High in anti oxidants
- Very high in manganese (boosts metabolism, provides cellular protection and helps in bone development)
- Cures indigestion
- Reduces bloating
- Cures the irritable bowl symdrome
- Helps in acidity and heart burn
- Suppresses appetite
- Increase the production of bile in the body
- Promotes a healthy gut
- Reduces water retention in the body
- Balances the hormones in the body
- Helps in boosting immunity
Other health benefits of fennel
- Helps regulate the blood pressure
- Reduces respiratory problems
- Improves HB production in the body
- Is very good for the brain
- Boosts bone health
- Is very good for the skin and hair
- Assists in better nutrient absorption in the body
- Helps combat bad breath
- Helps in fighting diabetes
- Has a cooling effect on the body in summers
- Has a number of anti bacterial and antiseptic properties
- Promotes liver health
Additional benefits
- Helps increase breast milk in lactating mothers
- Good for colicky kids (mothers can consume)
- Promotes good sleep
- Treats wounds and bites
- Boosts sexual drive
- Prevents some forms of cancer
- Assists in treatment of diarrhoea
- Has laxative effects
- Has anti spasmodic effects
- Helps with treatment of sun burn
- Reduces allergies
Fennel benefits for women
Fennel contains phytoestrogens and anethole
- Helps regulate periods
- Balances hormones
- Reduces menstrual cramps
- Good in menopause
- Boosts fertility
- Assists in good vaginal health
How to consume ?
1. Fennel seed tea
- In one cup of boiling water, add 1 tsp of fennel seeds
- Cover the container and let it infuse
- Strain and have it warm
2. Fennel infused water
- Heat 2.5 – 3 litres of water in a pan
- Add 1 tsp fennel seeds
- Bring it to boil
- Next morning have the water
3. Mouth freshner / digestive mix
- Take 20 grams cardamom (elaichi), 10 grams each of nutmeg and dry ginger, 80 grams fennel seeds and 30 grams of rock sugar (misri)
- Dry roast all ingredients except misri
- Grind everything together
- Store in a air tight container
Which one to buy ?
- Buy fennel seeds which are more green than pale
- Store the fennel seeds away from sunlight
- Always buy in small quantity as it has a limited shelf life (up to six months)
Important points
- Should be consumed in moderation
- May interfere with birth control pills
- Consult a doctor prior to having it in pregnancy
- May interfere with antibiotics
- People with kidney disease should consult a doctor
- People on medication for blood pressure should consult a doctor
- Not meant to be directly consumed by small kids
- Be careful and vary of allergies
- Fennel seeds are not a medication for breast enlargement
I am drinking 3 days..pcod problem is there. How many days use this drink??