A favorite remedy of the Greek and Romans. The Puritans use it as a digestive aid. Fennel is a versatile herb that is helpful in a wide array of ailments: soothes the digestive tract (aids stomach acid), flatulence, intestinal gas, cramps, indigestion and heartburn, gynecological problems, rheumatism and conjunctivitis.

Contains the helpful chemicals, creosol and alpha-pinene(8,800 parts per million), that help loosen bronchial secretions and helps relieve asthma and other respiratory ailments.

Also used in the treatment of coughs and colds. A weak infusion of Fennel may ease the discomfort of your colicky infant. Nursing mothers may increase their flow of breast milk. Can bring on a menstrual period and eases the discomfort experienced during menopause.

Helps decrease the appetite and may be used for weight-loss.

If you suffer from halitosis (bad breath), just chew on some Fennel seeds for awhile for fresh breath.

To make a medicinal tea, first cook some Barley in plenty of water. Strain the water and save. To one pint of boiling Barley water, add 1½ teaspoon Fennel. Reduce heat and simmer for five minutes; steep an extra 20 minutes. One cup taken by nursing mothers will stimulate milk flow soon; ½ cup before a meal stimulates appetite; the eyes washed with the same strained liquid will get rid of irritation and eye strain. This same tea made with an equal amount of Peppermint and given cool in one cup amounts, will help to calm hyperactive children.

As for the culinary aspects, it is used widely with all kinds of fish dishes. A real treat is to grill trout or salmon, then flame them in brandy on a bed of Fennel Seeds which burns and imparts a truly unique flavor. It also goes well with pork, veal, in soups, vinaigrette sauces and salads.

The Fennel essential oil may be applied locally to ease rheumatic pains.

• Recommended Dosage

Read More About It

• A Field Guide to Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs by Steven Foster, Christopher Hobbs.

• CRC Handbook of Medicinal Spices by James A. Duke, Mary Jo Bogenschutz-Godwin.

• Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West by Michael Moor.