Herb Profile: Fennel
Digestive distress? Fennel treats indigestion and gas. It is considered to be the most sattvic (pure) herb that calms the nerves and mind. Read more about the surprising medicinal uses of this common kitchen herb.
Fennel is commonly used in Italian cooking as well as Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. It has a sweet licorice taste that is recognizable in spice blends, sausage, and breads. Besides being a tasty herb, it increases digestive fire, owning to its carminative property. It is one of the only digestive herbs that is (debatably) cooling so it doesn’t increase Pitta or heat in the body. It is considered a tridoshic (VPK=) herb and so can be used by all doshas. To enjoy a cup of fennel tea, steep 1 tsp of crushed seeds in 1 cup of hot water. Crushing the seeds slightly before use releases the volatile oils.
Relieve painful gas and indigestion – use 1 Tbsp fennel seeds in a cup of tea to relieve gas. The seeds can also be chewed after meals or used to season hard-to-digest foods.
Clear out congestive mucous – substances in fennel promote the loosening of mucous in the lungs, which benefits asthma sufferers.
Promote lactation – this herb has been used historically to increase the flow of milk. It has seen a recent resurgence in use as a tea for lactating mothers.
Cultivate purity, harmony, and balance – fennel seeds are known to increase the sattva guna, the universal state of being that is associated with lightness, truth, peace, purity, harmony, and balance.
Cautions: possible contraindication when taken during pregnancy. Use caution when taking essential oil as overdose can result in serious side effects.
Source: Khalsa, Karta Purkh Singh and Michael Tierra. The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs. Twin Lakes: Lotus Press, 2008.
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Herbs are intended to support general well being. If conditions persist, visit your doctor.