Fennel (called saunf in Hindi, Variyali in Gujarati and Perunjeeram in Tamil) is a perennial herb that is native to the shores of the Mediterranean, but has been widely grown in many parts of the world, especially on dry soils near the sea-coast and on river-banks. It is a highly aromatic and flavorful herb with culinary and medicinal uses. Its seeds are widely used around the world in mouth fresheners, toothpastes, desserts, antacids and in cuisines. Following are its health benefits.
• Fennel seeds are rich in Iron and amino acids which enhances the production of hemoglobin and which are helpful in the treatment of anemia.
• Chewing of fennel seeds expels foul breath and since its rich in fiber it aids digestion.
• Fennel stimulates the secretion of digestive and gastric juices, reduces inflammation of stomach and intestines and facilitates proper absorption of nutrients from the food.
• Due to certain properties found in fennel seeds it is an anti flatulent, and expels gases from the stomach.
• The roughage in Fennel seeds helps clearance of bowels thereby maintaining the health of the digestive system
• Fennel is helpful in curing diarrhea as some components of fennel have disinfectant and anti bacterial properties.
• Regular intake of fennel helps protect eyes from inflammation, disorders related to aging, macular degeneration etc. due to presence of anti oxidants, detoxifiers and stimulants etc. in it. The juice of fennel leaves when externally applied on the eyes reduces irritation and fatigue of eyes.
• Fennel is useful in respiratory disorders such congestion, bronchitis, cough etc.
• Fennel is diuretic, i.e. increases amount and frequency of urination, thereby helping removal of toxic substances from the body and helping in rheumatism, swelling etc.
• It strengthens hair, prevents hair fall, relaxes body, sharpens memory and has a marvelous cooling effect in summer if the pale greenish-yellow water, in which it is soaked, is consumed.
• Fennel promotes the function of the kidneys, liver and spleen, and helps clear the lungs.
• Fennel helps to arouse appetite, and relieve colic and abdominal cramps.
• Fennel in larger doses can help removes obstructions of the liver, spleen, and gallbladder.
• Fennel is widely used around the world as ingredient in mouth fresheners and toothpastes.
• Fennel tea provides moderate relief of symptoms associated with painful periods (dysmenorrhea).