Fennel (Sweet) Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Seeds
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Sweet, almost peppery, earthy
Largest Producing Countries: Hungary, France, Germany, and Italy

Traditional Use: Fennel is well known throughout the food industry which utilizes all parts of the plant. Medicinally it has a history of promoting lactation.

Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aperitif, carminative, depurative, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, galactagogue, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge

Benefits: Amenorrhea, asthma, breast congestion, breast feeding, bronchitis, bruises, candida, cellulite, constipation, cramps, dyspepsia, edema, flatulence, fluid retention, hangover, hiccups, indigestion, insufficient milk (nursing mothers), loss of appetite, mature skin, nausea, rheumatism. The galactagogue action of this oil may be advantageous for new mothers experiencing breast congestion while breast feeding. Fennel may be added to a blend with carrier oil and massaged into the congested area. Remember to wash the area before feeding.

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, 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.

Safety Data: Avoid in epilepsy, estrogen dependant cancers, and while pregnant. May cause skin irritation.

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).