Juicing For Health - Fennel
Name
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) also known as large fennel, sweet fennel, wild fennel, finocchio, carosella, florence fennel and Fennel.
Parts Used
Fruits, Roots, Stems.
Information
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), is a plant species in the genus Foeniculum and is a member of the family Apiaceae. It is a hardy, perennial, umbelliferous herb, with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. It is generally considered indigenous to the shores of the Mediterranean, but has become widely naturalised elsewhere.
Traditionally Fennel has been used for thousands of years medicinally as an appetite suppressant, stimulate lactation, indigestion, gas, hiccups, colic, cramps, nausea, vomiting, excessive stomach acidity, sweetening the breath, gum disorders, diarrhea, increase peristalsis of the stomach and intestines, intestinal worms, promote the functioning of the kidneys, liver and spleen, also clears out the lungs.
Benefits
- Chemotherapy/Radiation
- Eye Health
- Digestive Aid
- Phytoestrogens
Fennel has been said to be good for after chemotherapy and radition treatments for cancer. The herb helps rebuild the digestive system and other organs such as kidney and liver.
In the Indian subcontinent, fennel seeds are also eaten raw, sometimes with some sweetener, as it is said to improve eyesight. Ancient Romans regarded fennel as the herb of sight. Root extracts were often used in tonics to clear cloudy eyes. Extracts of fennel seed have been shown in animal studies to have a potential use in the treatment of glaucoma.
Fennel is often recommended as a digestive aid it is used to treat gas, indigestion, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence and hiccups. Fennel was also used traditionally as an appetite suppressant.
Fennel is a rich source of phytoestrogens which act as weak estrogens to block up the receptors so more harmful estrogens cant be absorbed. Thus helping to achieve hormonal balance, relieving symptoms of menopause and other hormone related disorders. This may also be why fennel stimulates breast growth and lactation.
Side Effects/Precautions
Although rare, allergic reactions to fennel may occur. Stop taking fennel and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.
Do not take fennel without first talking to your doctor if you have epilepsy or another seizure disorder or if you take any medication to treat seizures. Fennel may increase the risk of seizures.
Rash and increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight has also been reported with the use of fennel.
Buying Information
Good product sources can be purchased from the links below.
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