Welcome to Herb Notes, I'm Sorrel Hartford. I am delighted to be stewarding this LearningHerbs space since our podcaster Tara Ruth has moved on to new adventures.
Today we'll be talking about sweet, sweet fennel.
Beloved as an aromatic herb and vegetable, fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has a long history of medicinal use all over the world.
Let’s dig into three medicinal uses of fennel…
1. Fennel for digestive health
Fennel is best known for its support of the digestive system. Its aromatic oils are antispasmodic, and can relieve muscular cramps and symptoms of IBS. Fennel can move along slow digestion that leads to constipation and abdominal bloating. In Ayurveda, fennel is considered one of the best herbs for strengthening digestive fire and the capacity to convert food into energy.
I always remember one of my favorite parts of going out to eat when I was a child was going to an Indian restaurant, and getting the little dish of fennel candies after the meal. It wasn't until recently that I learned that is for digestion — that is an herbal medicine right there, at the end of your meal!
2. Fennel for the lungs
With its antispasmodic and expectorant properties, fennel is a strong ally for the respiratory system. A tea or syrup made from the seeds can make coughing more productive, and can relieve hoarseness, asthma, chest congestion, and shortness of breath.
3. Fennel for kidney and bladder health
The diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties of fennel help support healthy kidney, bladder, and urinary functions. Fennel promotes detoxification of these systems through its ability to combat infection, and its stimulation of urination allows the kidney and bladder to function more efficiently.
Considerations:
Fennel grows wild across the Mediterranean, and is sometimes found as a naturalized garden-escapee in hot places around the world. Wildcrafters are cautioned to be extra careful when harvesting fennel in the wild due to its similar appearance to some poisonous plants in the carrot family. Always consult a guidebook or a local plant person when identifying plants that you plan to consume!
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This has been Herb Notes with me, Sorrel Hartford. Catch ya next time!
