Baldwins Fennel Seed ( Foeniculum Vulgare )

Foeniculum vulgare [semen]

Origin: India/ Egypt

Cultivated in Europe, North America, Asia & Egypt (where the majority of our stock comes from). Fennel was formerly an official drug in the United States and was listed as being used for indigestion.

In medieval Europe, during church, Fennel seeds were chewed to supress hunger, they gave the nickname: 'Meeting Seeds'. 12th century, Herbal Practitioner and Mystic, Hildegard von Bingen, regarded Fennel seeds as a 'happy spirit', great for digestion.

Indian cuisines place roasted Fennel seeds on tables in restaurants as a post-digestive tool to help appease the gut after a full meal.

Health perks:

The seeds have traditionally been used to treat digestive complaints such as constipation, indigestion, heartburn & colic.

In combination with Peppermint, Carraway it can be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome; in combination with Chamomile (German), Liquorice, Vervain & Lemon balm, studies show it to be effective at relieving colic in infants (with appropriate dosage***).

The major constituents include the terpenoid anethole. Terpenoids inhibit spasms in the type of muscles found in the intestinal tract. This is thought to contribute to fennel’s use as a carminative (wind-relieving) herb.

Following on with anethole, it can be used on improving oral hygiene. When chewed, anethole is released and freshens the breath, but additionally it is also supportive of the gums and dental care.

Other Fennel seeds benefits include its diuretic (increasing urine production & prevent water retention) & choleretic (increase in bile production) actions.

Contains phytoestrogens that guides menstrual health and helps with PMS. Additionally, Fennel seeds are also a galactogogue like its herb form.

1 to 1.5 teaspoons (5–7 grams) of seeds per day are recommended. A tea can be made by boiling half a teaspoon (2-3g) of crushed seed per 250ml of water for ten to fifteen minutes (keeping covered).

Leave the heated decoction to cool then strain and drink up to three times a day.

Alternatively 1-2 teaspoons of tincture (5-10ml) can be taken up to three times a day between meals.

P.S. ***If pregnant/ nursing, or there are health imbalances that require attention, it is always wise to consult a qualified herbal practitioner... even before trying a new remedy.