ILLEA - Latin American Institute for Environmental Studies

fennel

Foeniculum vulgare, known as fennel or sweet fennel, is a herbaceous plant with various culinary and medicinal uses. Here are some of the main uses:

Culinary Uses: • Spice:
o Fennel seeds are used as a spice in various dishes, such as breads, cakes, soups, stews, and fish. o Fresh leaves can also be used to flavor salads and other dishes.

• Beverages:
o Fennel is used in the production of liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages. o Fennel tea is a popular drink with a sweet taste and digestive properties.

Medicinal Uses: • Digestive:
o Fennel is known for its digestive properties, helping to relieve gas, colic, and indigestion.

• Lactogogue:
o In some cultures, fennel is used to increase breast milk production in lactating women.

It unclogs nipples. • Expectorant:

Fennel can also help relieve respiratory problems such as coughs, asthma, and bronchitis.