Description

Fennel is a flowering plant species in the carrot family. Fennel seeds are ripe, dried, gray-green striped to yellowish-brown colored seeds. These seeds are deeply furrowed and made up of 5 ridges and have an agreeable aroma. It is a native of Europe and Asia but is cultivated in temperate regions worldwide. Fennel seeds can be used either in their raw form, as a powder or a paste. Fennel powder can easily be made at home by using a food mixer grinder. For making a fennel seed paste you can do it by mixing fennel seed powder with cold water at home.

Health benefits

• Fennel seeds are a very rich source of potassium. Potassium being an essential component of cells and body fluids helps to control heart rate and blood pressure. ⁽¹⁾ 
• It contains active compounds like estragole, fenchone, and anethole which help to cure indigestion, bloating and constipation. For those with IBS, the volatile oils found in fennel seeds can help kick start digestion by promoting the production of gastric enzymes. ⁽¹⁾ 
• Due to its phytonutrient content, fennel seed paste helps to treat sinuses, bronchitis, congestion, and cough. ⁽¹⁾ 
• It contains an active compound called anethole which induces the death of cancer cells. It is widely used for its anti-cancer properties. ⁽²⁾
• The powerful antioxidants in fennel, such as vitamin C and quercetin, can help to reduce inflammation and levels of inflammatory markers. ⁽²⁾

Selection Guide

It is always better to buy raw fennel seeds and then make a paste of it at home. While buying, choose bright green colored seeds as a bright green color indicates good quality.