Synonyms: Fennel Fruit, Fennel Seed, Finocchio, Florence Fennel, Foeniculi Fructus, Hinojo, Hsiao Hui Hsiang, Hui Hsiang, Hui Xiang, Sweet Fennel, Xiao Hui Xiang
Family: Umbelliferae or Apiaceae
Genus species: Foeniculum vulgare, Foeniculum officinale, Anethum foeniculum, Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce
Type: Perennial herb
Part Used: Dried ripe fruit
Location: Africa, Asia, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, Europe, Hungary, Mediterranean region, Romania, South America
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitussive, appetite stimulant, aromatic, carminative, decreases the griping of irritating cathartics, digestive, expectorant, galactogogue, hepatic, increases the population of beneficial intestinal bacteria (acidophilus and bifidophilus) and eliminating undesirable and pathogenic bacterial population, mild stimulant, respiratory alterative, respiratory stimulant, secretagogue, secretolytic, stomachic, weak diuretic
Indications: Abdominal distention, agalactia, amenorrhea, anorexia, blepharitis (eye wash), bronchitis, cirrhosis, common cold, conjunctivitis (eyewash), cough, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, flatulent colic in children, flatulent indigestion, gallbladder disorders, gout, hyperacidity, hypertension, inappetence, indigestion, mastitis, menstrual cramps, side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, sore throat (gargle), upper respiratory catarrh, vomiting
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Fats, Fiber, Glycine, Linoleic Acid, Magnesium, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein, Sodium, Vitamin C
Preparation & Dosages: (3x/day)
Decoction: 3-5 g, in three doses
Dried Fruits: dose 0.3-0.6 g or as infusion
Liquid extract: 1:1 in 70% alcohol, dose 0.8-2 ml
Tea: pour 150 ml of boiling water over 1-3 teaspoonfuls of crushed fennel and after 5-10 minutes pass through a tea strainer. For Gastrointestinal Disorders, one cup between meals 2-4x/day, for infants and young children, dilute infusion in their milk.
Tincture: 1:5 in 60% alcohol, dose; 30-60 drops added to warm water
Contraindications: Diverticulitis, diverticulosis, duodenal ulcer, esophageal reflux, gastrointestinal disease, lactation, pregnancy, spastic colitis, stomach ulcer, ulcerative colitis.
Safety: Foeniculum vulgare is considered GRAS. Safe when used appropriately.
Warning: Do not use large amounts, 5-7 g, for extended periods of time.