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 ½ 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.

Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or, diagnose any disease or condition. Nor is it intended to prescribe in any way. This information is for educational purposes only and may not be complete, nor may its data be accurate.

As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier).