Back in 490 BC the Greeks and Persians were battling in a field of fennel, the plains of marathon. Marathon meaning fennel.
Roman soldiers chewed Fennel for increased endurance. Later on the Puritans called it “the meeting seed”. Many of the congregation would chew fennel seeds to ward off sleepiness and hunger during long church services.
Fennel seeds are miraculous, fragrant and tasty little pods of medicinal goodness and can be found in any grocery store in the spice section. Chewing 10 to 15 fennel seeds once or twice a day are helpful to the body in many ways.
Fennel speeds up the digestive process. This is especially good for those who suffer with Type 2 Diabetes. Frequently people with type 2 Diabetes develop a slowing down of peristalsis, which is the muscle movement of the intestine in the digestive process to move waste down to be expelled. This disorder is called Gastro Paresis. Chewing fennel seeds will help alleviate this by acting as an antispasmodic and helping the digestive juices do their work.
Fennel helps alleviate indigestion, improves pancreatic function. It is also used for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, nausea, diarrhea, coughs from colds or bronchitis.
These little seeds will enhance energy levels, act as a diuretic.
Fennel seeds are also good for suppressing appetite if taken before meals. Chew 10 to 15 seeds before meals and you will feel full faster and eat less.
I chew the seeds and also make them into a tea form.
Fennel is one of my most used “Kitchen Medicine Goto items. These are the basics on how to utilize this wonderful seed.
Fennel Tea ( Tisane) with Honey
Boil 2 or 3 cups of water
Crush 2 teaspoons of Fennel seed with a spoon and add to boiling water. Turn off heat and steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
You can strain the seeds or leave them in the tea. Add honey for taste.
This tastes good and is a great digestive aid. Also good for colds and bronchitis.
This information is intended for your general knowledge only and not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment specific to medical conditions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic or serious illness, and /or have many sensitivities and allergies check with your doctor before using Fennel.
