Medicinal Uses of Fennel

The fennel plant is related to other seed-bearing herbs, including cumin, dill and anise. Fennel produces aromatic seeds that have a sweet, black licorice flavor. The seeds are often chewed as a medicinal treatment. The seeds and other segments of the plant have been used medicinally since ancient times. Today the herb is cultivated worldwide for its medicinal and culinary uses.

Antioxidant Effects

Fennel has antioxidant effects according to a 2003 study by researchers from Atatürk University in Turkey. The study found that antioxidant activity of fennel extracts was significant and it effectively scavenged free radicals. The researchers concluded that the fennel seed is an important natural source of antioxidants and further studies to determine the specifics are warranted.

Provides Liver Protection

Fennel provides liver protective effects, according to a 2003 study by researchers from Yüzüncü Yil University in Turkey. Researchers found that rats with carbon tetrachloride induced liver injury improved markedly after consuming fennel. The researchers concluded that fennel is effective for protecting the liver.

Antibacterial Effects

Fennel has antibacterial effects, according to a 2004 study by researchers at the Università degli Studi della Basilicata in Italy. Approximately 30 varieties of bacteria were tested against the active constituents in fennel, and the herb conferred significant antibacterial activity in the trial. The researchers concluded that fennel's antibacterial effects appear promising.

Digestive Treatment

Fennel has long been used as a digestive treatment. The active constituents, including terpenoid anethole in fennel's volatile oil have carminative action. The compounds prevent spasms in the intestinal tract. The herb relieves gas and cramps and may prevent diarrhea, according to the Epicentre website. Indian restaurants frequently offer fennel seeds as a carminative to prevent gastric upset following meals.