Alternate name(s): Bitter fennel, sweet fennel, common fennel, wild fennel
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Apiaceae (carrot) family and grows throughout Asia, North America, and Europe.
Fennel dates back centuries and is thought to be one of the oldest medicinal herbs in the world. It is prevalent in parts of Asia, where many people consume fennel after meals to aid in digestion and freshen their breath.
Nutritional Benefits
Fennel and fennel seeds are a rich source of various nutrients, including antioxidants, unsaturated fatty acids, and amino acids.
Fennel and fennel seeds are commonly used to flavor foods. The herb is also thought to possess various health benefits and may be helpful as a digestive aid or diuretic (rids the body of extra water and salt). Fennel has also been traditionally used as a food to boost breast milk supple (a galactagogue).