8 Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have many health benefits from digestive to vision. Incorporate these little wonder seeds into your daily life and feel the difference.

Fennel is used as an herb and spice to infuse a hint of sweetness to many dishes, even savory ones. Every part of this plant can be used in cooking and in alternative medicine, but the seeds are often the easiest to find and put to use. They can be picked up in the spice aisle of any grocery store or often found in bulk in health food stores. Add them to dishes, chew them after meals, or steep them in water for a pleasant and soothing tea.

Fennel seeds have a similar flavor to licorice and anise and are naturally sweet. They are rich in flavonoids that act as antioxidants, protecting against free radical damage, combating cancer, slowing degenerative diseases, and reducing oxidative stress to the cardiovascular system. Fennel seeds also have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain, especially associated with the symptoms of arthritis. They are rich in fiber that helps reduce cholesterol, aids digestion, detoxifies, and balances blood sugar. Fennel seeds are also a very good source of the minerals calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, magnesium, and copper with essential vitamins like C, A, and several of the B vitamins.

Digestion

The fiber in fennel seeds acts as a cleanser on the digestive system and aids in the formation of bile. Essential oils in these seeds helps ease muscle spasms, reduce inflammation, ease gas, and even destroy bad bacteria to keep everything moving smoothly.

Sight

Fennel was considered an herb for eyesight in ancient India and Rome. Extracts have shown some promise in improving the symptoms of glaucoma too. The seeds also contain vitamin A (as beta-carotene), which is important to eyesight.

Brain

Fennel has beneficial effects on memory and cognitive function. Chew on a few just before a test, work presentation, or getting down to some research.

PMS

Fennel seeds are anti-spasmodic and help reduce pain, cramping, bloating, and gas. They also contain phytoestrogens that can help balance hormones.

Breast Feeding

Fennel promotes the production and secretion of milk. This milk will also reduce gas for the baby, which is especially helpful with colic. However, fennel seeds should not be taken in large amounts during pregnancy, but they are considered safe in regular recipes and teas.

Lungs

Fennel seeds and their phytonutrients reduce asthma symptoms and help clear the sinuses. They make a great tea to aid with bronchitis, congestion, and cough as they have expectorant properties.

Blood

The fiber and essential oils in fennel seeds helps the body remove toxins. It is considered a blood cleanser.

Breath

Fennel seeds are consumed after meals in many counties to aid digestion and improve breath. Fennel sweetens breath, kills bacteria, and fights halitosis naturally.

*Warning: Fennel and similar seeds, like senna, can worsen symptoms of seizures or epilepsy. Avoid these seeds if you have epilepsy or any type of seizures and consult your physician before adding them to your diet.

Try fennel out with this gazpacho recipe!