Fennel is a type of plant in the carrot family that features yellow flowers and a licorice flavor. It comes in extract, oil, and capsule form as well as plain seeds.1 Eating fennel seeds benefits many body processes, most notably the digestive system. Fennel is known to relieve infant colic symptoms when breastfeeding mothers take fennel supplements.2 In fact, one study showed that fennel relieved colic in 65 percent of babies compared to 24 percent receiving the placebo.3
Fennel Seed Uses and Health Benefits
Fennel seeds benefit the digestive system. For example, you can chew a half-teaspoon of fennel seeds after each meal to help reduce gas.4 Fennel seed uses include for the following conditions:
- Ulcerative Colitis - Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. This condition causes ulcers in the intestines and rectum, which can lead to bleeding and diarrhea. Fennel seed uses include helping treat ulcerative colitis thanks to its ability to relieve some of the inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Conjunctivitis - Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, causes inflammation in the eye. A fennel seed herbal remedy can help reduce this inflammation when crushed into an eyewash. To enjoy these fennel seed benefits, boil two teaspoons of crushed fennel seed into a half liter of water. Let the water cool, and then straining the seeds. Splash your eyes with the remaining water solution to help cure your conjunctivitis.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome - A fennel seed diet can help treat irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation. Pair fennel seeds with peppermint, caraway seeds, and wormwood to help treat upper abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
- Gastritis - Gastritis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the stomach lining. This can lead to heartburn, indigestion, abdominal pain, and other complications. A fennel seed diet can help soothe the stomach and reduce these symptoms. You can also pair it with caraway and peppermint to reduce gas and cramping when experiencing indigestion.
- Mumps - Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, fennel seeds can be used in topical treatments to help ease the swelling and inflammation associated with conditions like mumps.
- Upset Stomach - With its benefits on the digestive tract, chewing on a small amount of fennel seeds can help ease an upset stomach and treat any associated inflammation.
Fennel Seed Side Effects and Precautions
Fennel seed side effects are usually nothing to worry about. Fennel is not known to cause serious health issues or interact with other medications.1 It’s best to talk to your doctor before administering fennel seeds directly to infants or children. Avoid fennel and fennel seeds if you are allergic to plants like celery, carrots, or mugwort. Fennel allergic reactions can include rash, swelling, and itching.6
Avoid taking fennel seeds if you have endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or a history of ovary, breast, or uterine cancer.6 Talk to your doctor before taking fennel seeds when pregnant or breastfeeding or if you’re thinking about using a fennel seed natural remedy to replace other medications.