Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare, was originally a native of the Mediterranean, and has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant. The tea tastes like liquorice with a relaxing scent and slightly bitter aftertaste. It has long been taken to aid digestion and bloating, and relaxes the digestive muscles, helping with constipation, this helps cleanse the body and move toxins through the system. It has been well known for helping with oral hygiene, Indian restaurants will sometimes give sugar coated seeds as an after-dinner freshener. The Greeks and Romans prized it as it was said to give courage to warriors. A two-gram measure of Fennel Seeds contains 17% of the Recommended Daily Intake of Manganese, the mineral Manganese is important for enzyme activation, metabolism, cellular protection, bone development, blood sugar regulation, and wound healing. Aside from Manganese, Fennel Tea contains other minerals vital to bone health, including Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium. Fennel is rich in powerful antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, limonene, and quercetin, all of which benefit health. Fennel has strong oestrogenic properties, meaning that it acts similarly to the hormone Oestrogen. While this may help relieve menopausal symptoms, it may be unsafe for pregnant women.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
