Fennel Seed

History and Uses:
Fennel Seed comes from the Fennel plant, which was originally from Europe, where it is still grown today, and it is also cultivated in many parts of North America, Asia and Egypt. Its English namel is derived from the Latin word, foenum, meaning "hay," due to the finely divided leaves of the Fennel plant. Ancient Greek athletes ate Fennel Seed so they would gain strength, but not weight, and during the Middle Ages, the seeds were chewed to stave off hunger during fasting periods and also during long Church sermons. Eating the leaves has been a traditional tonic for the eyes, brain and a means to improve memory. The major constituents of Fennel, which include the terpenoid, anethole, are found in its volatile oil. Anethole and other terpenoids are thought to inhibit spasms in smooth muscles, such as those in the intestinal tract, and this is believed to contribute to Fennel's use as a carminative (gas-relieving and gastrointestinal tract cramp-relieving agent). Related compounds to anethole may have mild estrogenic actions, although this has not been proven in humans. Fennel is also thought to possess diuretic (promoting urine production), cholagogue (stimulating production of bile), pain-reducing, fever-reducing and anti-microbial actions. The seeds are used as a flavoring agent in many herbal medicines and to help disperse flatulence. The seeds and roots are also said to help open obstructions of the liver, spleen and gallbladder, as well as ease painful swellings. Fennel is believed to help relieve yellow jaundice, gout and occasional cramps. Fennel Seed was formerly considered an official drug in the United States and was listed for the treatment of indigestion.