Fennel, Sweet Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Crushed seeds
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Very sweet, anise-like, slightly earthy-peppery
Largest Producing Countries: Italy, France, and Greece
Traditional Use: In pharmaceutical products it is used in cough drops, lozenges, carminative and laxative preparations. In the food industry it is utilized in all of the major food categories, as well as soft drinks and alcoholic drinks. The cosmetic industry adds fennel to soaps, toiletries and perfumes, and room sprays.
Properties: Antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aperitif, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, estrogen-like, expectorant, galactagogue, laxative, orexigenic, regenerative, splenic, stimulant (circulatory), stomachic, tonic, and vermifuge.
Benefits: Abdominal pains or cramps, amenorrhea, anorexia, antidote for poisonous mushrooms, asthma, bronchitis, bruises, calms, cellulitis, child birthing (inhaled), colic, constipation, coughs, digestive problems, dull complexion, dyspepsia, edema, fertility, flatulence, fluid retention, hiccough, improves memory, insufficient milk (nursing mothers), liver problems, mature skin, menopausal problems, nausea, obesity, oily skin, PMS, pyorrhea, rheumatism, and sore throats.
Blends Well With: Bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cypress, dill, fir, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, mandarin, marjoram, niaouli, orange, pine, ravensara, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, tangerine, and ylang ylang.
Of Interest: The ancient Greeks thought it conveyed long life, courage, and strength. Their name for fennel was marathrion from maraino, meaning “to grow thin”. Fennel’s ability to stave off hunger was employed during fasting days in Europe. It was consumed in large quantities in the household of Edward I of England in 1300 -- 8 ˝ pounds being sufficient for only one month’s supply.
Safety Data: Non-irritant, relatively non-toxic, narcotic in large doses. It should not be used on epileptics, during pregnancy, those with endometriosis, or estrogen-dependent cancer. Use only in moderation.