Description :
Fennel is a tall, herbaceous plant with bright green hollow, jointed stems. The green feathery leaves are similar to those of dill. The umbrella of flowers at the top of the stalks contain 20 to 50 flowers and usually show up in July and August. In late summer, fennel produces a lot of green-gray fruits with anise-like aroma and taste. Dried fennel seeds were used during Medieval Times as a digestive aid, to reduce gas and bloating. It was also used to reduce pain in smooth muscles.
History and Folklore:
Fennel has been a symbol of courage since ancient times. Gladiators in the Roman Empire ate the seeds to give them an extra boost of courage before entering the arena. During the Middle Ages, fennel was used to keep ghosts from entering homes on the summer solstice.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the seeds just as the flowers are drying out and turning brown.
Precautions:
Do not take if pregnant or nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Antispasmatic, Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, Diuretic, Diaphoretic, Emmenogogue, Expectorant, Carminative
Other Names:
Large fennel, sweet fennel, wild fennel, finocchio, carosella, Florence fennel, Fennel
Related Species:
Foeniculum vulgare, F. vulgare var. ruburum, F. vulgare var. dulce, F. vulgare var. vulgare, F. vulgare var. azoricum
Ingredients: Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
Ryan –