Fennel is an excellent example of an aromatic herb that works to support normal digestive activity. Because fennel is most commonly used as a digestive aid, it is particularly helpful for occasional gas, bloating, and indigestion. Studies have shown that fennel has a calming action on smooth muscles, which may be in part how it restores health to the digestive tract. Fennel is also reported to exhibit a positive effect upon lactation, improving the volume of milk produced and its fat content in goats and mice. One cup of fennel bulb contains almost 20 percent of the daily requirement of vitamin C, making it quite a rich source of this beneficial vitamin of our diet.
Iron and histidine, an amino acid found in fennel, are both helpful in the treatment of anemia. Whereas iron is the chief constituent of hemoglobin, histidine stimulates the production of hemoglobin and also helps in the formation of various other components of the blood.
Fennel is a great source of fiber, as mentioned above, but besides the advantages to digestion that fiber provides, it also helps maintain healthy levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream, according to research conducted, in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. This means that it can stimulate the elimination of damaging LDL or bad cholesterol, which is a major factor in heart diseases, atherosclerosis, and strokes.
Fennel is helpful in curing diarrhea caused by bacterial infections, as some components such as anethol and cineole have disinfectant and antibacterial properties. Some amino acids, such as histidine, can aid in digestion and the proper functioning of the digestive system, thereby helping to eliminate diarrhea due to indigestion. Fennel has long been used by indigenous cultures as a way to eliminate diarrhea.
Precautions: Certain components of the fennel essential oil such as anethol, and a few other chemicals present in the plant itself can be dangerous if ingested in too large a quantity. You must remember that the compounds which can kill bacteria and microbes in low doses can be harmful to you too. Excess use of fennel can cause difficulty breathing, increased palpitations, irregular heartbeat, and various neural problems. So, enjoy fennel’s impressive benefits in moderation. If you have any questions, speak with a healthcare professional.
This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All aspects, properties, contraindications of every product are not listed; please do your own research. Always seek the counsel of a licensed healthcare professional if you are planning to use herbs or any other product from Manipura Apothecary.
