Properties and benefits of fennel What is it used for?

Since ancient times, fennel has been used as a natural remedy to treat numerous health problems thanks to its multiple benefits. If you are not yet familiar with this wild plant and all it can offer you, pay attention. In this article, we tell you everything about the properties of fennel and how to make the most of them.

What is fennel

Fennel is a herbaceous plant highly admired since ancient times (it was used as a natural remedy) thanks to its numerous health benefits. Although its origin is in Europe, this herb grows in temperate zones around the world, especially on the Mediterranean coast.

Fennel is widely used for its medicinal properties as an ingredient in cooking and in the world of cosmetics for the manufacture of beauty products.

Properties of fennel in an infusion

Fennel has been used as a home remedy for centuries thanks to its health properties. The best way to take advantage of all the properties of fennel is to prepare an infusion with this plant. It can also be used as a seasoning in numerous dishes and recipes thanks to its flavor.

Below we explain in more detail both the benefits and contraindications of this aromatic plant.

Benefits of fennel

• Digestive: both its seeds and fennel essential oil have diuretic and antacid properties which promote the elimination of gastric juices, help reduce fluid retention, decrease swelling, and improve nutrient absorption. For this reason, it is highly recommended to have a fennel infusion after a very heavy meal.
• Quenches thirst: Fennel infusion helps hydrate and quench thirst. Therefore, it is perfect after an intense training session or during hot summer days. It is also widely used to stimulate appetite.
• Anti-inflammatory: thanks to its antioxidant properties and its essential oils rich in ethanol, fennel can be used as a natural anti-inflammatory and as a remedy to treat fatty liver problems.
• Eliminates gas: Fennel has carminative benefits that promote the elimination of gases in the digestive tract. This helps, for example, to prevent colic.
• Boosts defenses: Thanks to its high Vitamin C content, a fennel infusion will help you strengthen your defenses and improve your immune system.
• Likewise, its high content of Vitamin C and retinol provides many benefits to the eyes. For example, it helps reduce ocular degeneration and helps treat and prevent eyelid inflammation such as blepharitis or styes. For the latter case, it is recommended to soak a gauze in a fennel infusion and gently tap on the eyelid to relieve inflammation.
• It contains iron and amino acids that promote hemoglobin production. For this reason, it can be quite useful when treating and preventing problems such as anemia.
• Stimulates brain activity: fennel is rich in potassium. This helps more oxygen reach the brain and stimulates neuronal activity.
• Reduces pain with spasms.
• Heals wounds: this is one of the reasons why this plant is so used in cosmetics for making creams. Fennel helps heal wounds and also reduces symptoms and inflammation of mosquito bites.
• Disinfectant: it can also be used as antiseptic to disinfect wounds and fight bacteria.

Contraindications

Fennel in adequate amounts does not present any contraindication. However, if we abuse this plant it can cause problems such as drowsiness or seizures.

Likewise, it is not recommended for people with Parkinson's problems, people undergoing hormonal treatments, pregnant women, children, or if you are taking other medications, as it may cancel their effect.

In these cases, we always recommend that before taking it, you first consult your trusted doctor.

How to make fennel infusion

Prepare a fennel infusion to make the most of the properties of this plant is really simple and quick. By the way! We recommend you take a look at our post about the properties of matcha tea, since it also offers a lot of health benefits.

The first thing you should do is add 7 grams of fennel seeds (you will find them easily in any herbalist) in a saucepan with boiling water. Let it act for approximately 15 minutes and then turn off the heat. After 10 minutes resting, strain the water and your infusion will be ready. Instead of seeds, you can also use the bulbs or leaves of fennel.

You can use this infusion to cleanse the body, treat colds and coughs, reduce cholesterol, fight anemia, protect eyesight, etc. As you can see, its uses are endless and if you didn't know it yet, it's time to start including it in your shopping list.