Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region.
Fennel dates back centuries and is thought to be one of the oldest medicinal herbs in the world.
Fennel and fennel seeds are commonly used to flavor foods.
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Fennel has also been traditionally used as a food to boost breast milk supple (agalactagogue).
As with many herbs, though, the science behind the medicinal uses of fennel is weak overall.
This article will provide an overview of the potential health benefits of fennel.
It will also discuss side effects, precautions, dosage, and how to use fennel and its seeds.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Along with its nutritional benefits, fennel and fennel seeds may provide additional health benefits.
Fennel is known to contain a long list of nutrients and active ingredients.
However, few of the alleged health benefits of fennel are supported by scientific evidence.
What follows is an overview of some of the potential benefits of fennel.
As such, fennel and fennel seeds are commonly used in cooking and baking.
The fruit or seeds of fennel may be dried before use and are described as both sweet and savory.
Interestingly, fennel leaves contain the highest amount ofomega-3 fatty acids.
Lactation
Research shows that fennel may be a galactagogue, a substance that increases breast milk supply.
Some studies have linked fennel use to increased breast milk volume and fat content.
Fennel supplementation whilebreastfeedingmay also lead to infant weight gain.
More research should be conducted for conclusions to be reached.
In one such study, fennel seed extract strengthened the intestinal epithelium (outer layer of tissue).
According to one review, fennel was found to reduce the pain intensity ofperiod crampssignificantly compared to a placebo.
This may be due to spasm-reducing (antispasmodic) and pain-reducing effects associated with the herb.
Another review concluded that fennel may be as effective as conventional drugs in reducing dysmenorrhea.
Additional research on this topic is needed before fennel can be recommended as a treatment option for dysmenorrhea.
You may be more likely to experience side effects if you use too much fennel at one time.
Therefore, it’s important to use fennel only as directed and never exceed a recommended dose.
However, these effects have only been displayed in animal models and not in humans.
There is not enough information to know if fennel is safe during pregnancy.
Talk with a healthcare provider to determine if you should avoid fennel duringpregnancy.
Fennel is thought to be safe when used in normal amounts while breastfeeding.
However, large doses of fennel while breastfeeding have been associated with toxicity in infants in some cases.
How Much Fennel Should I Consume?
There is no standardized dosage information for fennel.
This is because there is not enough scientific evidence to support its use for any health condition.
More research is needed before proper dosage information can be confirmed for fennel.
How to Use Fennel and Fennel Seeds
Fennel can be used in various ways in cooking.
It is a common flavoring agent in both French and Italian cuisines.
Many parts of the fennel plant can be used for cooking, including the seeds and leaves.
It is popular for its licorice-like flavor.
Fennel is typically used as a vegetable.
Fennel may also be used in baking, as a preservative, or brewed as an herbal tea.
Interactions
Fennel may negatively interact with certain medications, supplements, and foods.
There is some evidence that fennel may interact withtamoxifen, a drug used to treatbreast cancer.
According to lab research, tamoxifen interacts with beta-sitosterol, an active ingredient in fennel and other herbs.
This interaction may make tamoxifen less potent.
More research is needed to determine if additional interactions exist.
How to Store Fennel
Store fresh fennel in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.
Some people separate the parts of the fennel plant before storing it.
Fennel seeds do not require refrigeration.
You may keep them in an air-tight container and store it in a cupboard.
Store fennel seeds and supplements in a cool, dry place.
They should also be kept out of direct sunlight and out of reach of pets and small children.
Discard fennel once it reaches its expiration date or shows signs of rancidity.
you might purchase fennel seeds, fennel spice, and fresh fennel at many grocery stores.
Fennel seeds and spices are also available online.
Fennel supplements may be found in various forms, including capsules and powders.
Fennel supplements are not common but can be purchased online.
Fennel is naturally vegan andgluten-free.
Some forms are alsoorganic.
Unlike fresh fennel, herbal supplements are largely unregulated in the United States.
These agencies review supplements for contaminants and ensure the ingredient list is accurate.
Regarding cooking, other herbs may work similarly to fennel in various recipes.
Summary
Fennel is a flowering plant used for centuries for its potential health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fennel is said to have a licorice-like flavor.
The flavor is also sometimes described as sweet and highly aromatic.
This flavor profile makes fennel suitable for both savory and sweet recipes.
Fennel can be consumed in various ways.
Some people consume fennel raw, while others prefer to eat it grilled, boiled, or baked.
The herb is also commonly used as a flavoring agent in the form of fennel seeds or ground fennel.
Fennel contains a long list of nutrients.
Fennel is also a good source of fiber, making it a well-rounded, nutritious vegetable.
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