Fennel is suitable for the treatment of various digestive complaints (dyspeptic complaints). These include mild cramps of the gastrointestinal tract, flatulence, bloating and loss of appetite. Experience has also shown positive effects in the treatment of indigestion with diarrhea in infants.
Application of fennel
Another major application of fennel fruit is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract (catarrh). In children, fennel syrup or fennel honey can also be given for such complaints and chronic cough.
Traditionally, fennel is used for better digestive function and to stimulate appetite.
Fennel in folk medicine
The official use of fennel fruits corresponds in the broadest sense to folk medicine. Already in the 15th century, the positive effect of the fruit was known for indigestion, gastric distress and respiratory problems.
Today, fennel is additionally used as a lactiferous agent for reduced milk production, as well as externally for inflammation of the conjunctiva and the edge of the eyelid, functional visual disorders and signs of eye fatigue.
Fennel as a homeopathic remedy
Homeopathically, the dried, ripe fennel fruits are used in anthroposophic therapy.
Ingredients of fennel
Fennel fruits contain at least 4% essential oil with trans-anethole and fenchone as the main components. The percentage of trans-anethole is higher in sweet fennel oil than in bitter fennel oil, and the reverse is true for fenchone. Anethole is also used as a flavoring agent in the cosmetics and spirits industries (for example, in ouzo and absinthe). Furthermore, estragole, fatty oil, proteins and flavonoids occur as ingredients in fennel fruits.
Fennel and its indications
Indications for which fennel can be used helpfully are:
- Digestive problems
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Feeling of fullness
- Stomach cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract
- Chronic cough
- Catarrh
