Botanical Overview
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as Fennel, Sweet fennel, or Sweet cumin, is a species in the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is also found throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The plant’s parts used medicinally include seeds, fruits, aerial parts, leaves, and root. Fennel is widely recognized for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Energetics
Fennel has a warming temperature effect and a drying moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter, pungent, and sweet notes. Energetically, it is characterized by an ascending directionality, has relaxing tonicity, and primarily supports the qi aspect of the body.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Antispasmodic
- Expectorant
- Galactagogue
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Colic
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Menstrual cramps
- Lactation insufficiency
Syndromes
- Functional dyspepsia
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Bronchial catarrh
- Amenorrhea
- Galactorrhea
TCM
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Cough with phlegm
- Poor digestion
Syndromes
- Spleen Qi deficiency
- Liver Qi stagnation
- Cold in the stomach and intestines
Ayurveda
- Vata disorders
- Gastric complaints
- Respiratory congestion
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Kapha-related cough
Unani
- Flatulence
- Colic pain
- Cough
- Insufficient milk secretion
Syndromes
- Nafs-e-Reeh (wind disorders)
- Balgham (phlegm) imbalance
Constituents & Mechanisms
Fennel contains phytochemicals such as anethole, fenchone, estragole, flavonoids, coumarins, and volatile oils that contribute to its carminative, antispasmodic, expectorant, and galactagogue effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 g seed in 150 mL water, 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-4 mL 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil: external use only, diluted
Safety & Contraindications
Fennel is generally considered safe when used appropriately in culinary and medicinal doses. Caution is advised during pregnancy, particularly at high doses, due to its potential estrogenic activity. It should be avoided by individuals with allergy to Apiaceae family plants. Possible interactions include additive estrogenic effects with hormonal therapies and photosensitivity with photosensitizing medications.
Astrological Correspondences
Fennel is traditionally associated with the planetary ruler Venus and the elemental rulers Air and Fire, reflecting its warming and uplifting energetic qualities.
Selected References
- Foeniculum vulgare Mill., fructus – European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph (2017)
- Foeniculum vulgare – Fennel – Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database (2019)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica – Tina T. Bensky (2004)
- The Way of Herbs – Michael Tierra (2002)
- Fennel – Maud Grieve, A Modern Herbal (1931)
- The Astrology of Herbs – Barbara Riddle (2010)