Fennel - Soothed digestion & Natural benefits : Your online pharmacy selection

What is fennel and why is it so widely used in phytotherapy and cooking?
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is an aromatic medicinal plant valued for its digestive, antispasmodic and diuretic properties. Known since ancient times, it is used both in cooking and in phytotherapy, where its seeds, bulb and essential oil are prized for their beneficial effects on digestion, feminine well-being and breathing.

Rich in anethole, flavonoids and phenolic compounds, fennel has carminative, expectorant and hormonal properties, making it a powerful natural remedy for relieving digestive disorders, soothing spasms and stimulating hormonal balance.

What are the digestive benefits of fennel?
Fennel is an essential ally for the digestive system, thanks to its antispasmodic and carminative effects. It helps to :

• Reduce bloating and gas: It helps eliminate air accumulated in the intestines, reducing digestive discomfort.
• Facilitate digestion: It stimulates the production of gastric and pancreatic juices, promoting better assimilation of nutrients.
• Prevent intestinal cramps and spasms: Its relaxing effect relieves abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Fight heartburn: soothes gastric irritation and protects the intestinal mucosa.
• Stimulate appetite: It is often recommended for people suffering from slow digestion or loss of appetite.

Recommended use:

As an infusion: Infuse 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes and drink after meals.
As an essential oil: Dilute 1 drop in a spoonful of honey or vegetable oil and consume after meals.

Is fennel beneficial for women?
Yes, fennel is a valuable plant for women's well-being, thanks to its gentle hormonal action. It is used to :

• Relieve menstrual pain and irregular periods: it helps relax the uterus and regulate the female cycle.
• Facilitate milk production in nursing mothers: It naturally stimulates lactation.
• Reduce menopausal symptoms: Its phytoestrogenic compounds help limit hot flashes and hormonal disturbances.

Recommended use:

As an infusion: Drink one cup morning and evening to regulate cycles and ease pain.
As an essential oil: Use diluted to massage the lower abdomen to relieve menstrual tension.

Is fennel effective against respiratory ailments?
Yes, fennel has expectorant and mucolytic properties, which help to :

• Clear bronchial tubes and relieve coughs.
• Facilitate mucus expulsion by thinning bronchial secretions.
• Soothe throat and respiratory tract irritations.

Recommended use:

Inhalation: Add 5 drops of fennel essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors.
As a natural syrup: Mix a decoction of fennel seeds with honey to soothe the throat.

Can fennel help with weight loss?
Yes, fennel is an excellent slimming ally thanks to its diuretic and draining effects:

Stimulates elimination of toxins and excess water.
Helps reduce sugar cravings and water retention.
Promotes light digestion and prevents bloating after meals.

Recommended use:

As a detox herbal tea: Infuse 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds with lemon and ginger.
As a dietary supplement: Available in capsules or ampoules, often combined with other digestive and draining plants.

What are the benefits of fennel for skin and hair?
Fennel's antioxidant and purifying properties make it an excellent cosmetic ingredient:

• Balances oily, acne-prone skin.
• Soothes irritation and redness thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.
• Strengthens the scalp and stimulates hair growth.

Recommended use:

As a tonic lotion: Brew fennel seeds and apply the water as a facial tonic.
As a hair mask: Add a concentrated infusion to shampoo to strengthen hair.

How to use fennel to benefit from its health-giving properties?
Fennel comes in several forms, depending on your needs:

• As an infusion: 1 to 2 cups a day to aid digestion and soothe aches and pains.
• As an essential oil: 1 to 2 drops diluted in a vegetable oil, for massage or ingestion.
• Dried seeds: Chew after meals for optimal digestion.
• As a dietary supplement: Available in capsule or ampoule form.

What is the recommended dosage for a fennel cure?
Dosages vary according to the form used:

• Infusion: 1 teaspoon of seeds infused in 200 ml of water, up to 3 times a day.
• Essential oil: 1 drop diluted, once or twice a day, for internal use.
• Supplements: Follow manufacturer's directions, generally 200 to 400 mg extract per day.

Does fennel have any contraindications or side effects?
Although fennel is generally well tolerated, a few precautions should be taken:

Not recommended for pregnant women, due to its phyto-oestrogenic effects.
Avoid in case of allergy to Apiaceae (carrots, celery, aniseed).
Do not exceed recommended doses to avoid side effects such as mild digestive disorders.
The essential oil should be used with caution, especially for internal use.
In case of doubt, it is advisable to seek the advice of a health professional before use.