Fennel Tea

Fennel, botanical name Foeniculum vulgare, belongs to the Apiaceae (carrot) family and is native to the southern Mediterranean region, although it is now found throughout the world. Rich in vitamins A, B-complex, C and D, amino acids and many other nutrients, it has a pleasant aniseed aroma. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans valued fennel as both a medicine and a food. Fennel has long been believed to strengthen vision, regulate hormones, improve digestion and help with memory problems, and is also a natural breath freshener, has anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects, has antispasmodic, diuretic, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antioxidant effects. Regular consumption of fennel tea can help reduce the risk of many serious diseases including diabetes, cancer and glaucoma, as well as lower cholesterol and improve heart health, it is also effective for joint pain and arthritis, and can aid in weight loss as it suppresses appetite when taken before meals.

Fennel Tea for Healthy Digestion

The powerful essential oils in fennel increase the production of gastric juices to kick-start digestion, as well as stimulate blood flow to the digestive tract, regulate bowel contractions and remove trapped gas, relieve bloating, cramps and spasms. Fennel tea is an excellent remedy for IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), general flatulence, diarrhea, constipation and for digestion. It is also a traditional remedy for relieving colic symptoms and can be given to newborns – simply add to a bottle of breast milk, formula or water for instant pain relief. Good digestion allows the body to absorb more nutrients from food and eliminate excess fluid, waste and toxins.

Relief from colds and flu

Anethole, fenchone and tarragon, the volatile oils found in fennel, are useful for upper respiratory infections and lung conditions. They clear the bronchial passages and relieve conditions such as bronchitis, asthma and whooping cough, and help break up mucus and phlegm, thereby easing the severity of congestion and reducing the effects of colds and flu. Gargling with the tea can help relieve a sore throat. Moreover, fennel tea is rich in vitamin C and strengthens the immune system, helping to fight diseases.

Hormonal balance

Fennel contains phytoestrogens, which act similarly to the female hormone estrogen and help maintain hormonal balance in the female reproductive system. Antispasmodic properties help relax the uterus and relieve spasms. An excellent remedy for PMS and menopause, as well as for the treatment of hormonal imbalance polycystic ovary syndrome. Additionally, it is known to increase milk secretion in nursing mothers.

Fennel also contains progestogenic substances, which help balance the thyroid gland and glandular system.

For skin and hair

The high antioxidant properties of fennel combat skin aging from free radicals. In addition, it helps to flush out excess fluid from the skin, is an excellent remedy for acne and promotes a flawless complexion.

Tea, rich in vitamin E, is a protector of hair cells and perfectly rinses the hair, removing chemical deposits and impurities, adding shine to the hair.

Contraindications

Do not use during pregnancy.