Used as both a food additive and medicinal supplement, fennel is an herb derived from the seeds of the Foeniculum vulgare plant. This herbal treatment has been used traditionally as a way to reduce infant colic, a common condition characterized by fussiness and abdominal cramping and bloating. In adults, fennel may also relieve stomach discomfort caused by poor digestion or gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome. However, more research is needed to support these proposed health benefits of fennel. Despite its medicinal uses, treatment with fennel isn't appropriate for everyone so talk with your doctor first.
Hormone-Sensitive Health Condition
Fennel may mimic the action of a hormone called estrogen when used medicinally. For this reason, people with hormone-sensitive health conditions, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis and reproductive cancers, shouldn't take fennel. Improper use of this herbal treatment may worsen symptoms associated with your health problem.
Allergy
People allergic to plant members of the Apiaceae family, including mugwort, carrots and celery, shouldn't take fennel. Hypersensitive people who ingest or handle fennel supplements may develop a severe allergic reaction. During an allergic reaction, you may develop hives or facial swelling or experience wheezing, difficulty breathing or trouble swallowing. Contact an emergency medical provider immediately if allergic reaction symptoms arise to ensure you receive prompt and appropriate care.
Pregnant or Breast-Feeding
The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the safety of fennel during pregnancy. Thus, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take fennel.
Medication Use
If you're taking certain prescription medications, treatment with fennel may not be advised. Women using hormonal birth control or estrogen therapy should avoid taking fennel. This treatment combination may reduce the effectiveness of your hormonal birth control method, which may increase your risk of becoming pregnancy or experiencing menopause symptoms. Fennel may also reduce your body's ability to absorb ciprofloxacin, a type of antibiotic. In addition, don't use tamoxifen in conjunction with fennel. Fennel may prevent tamoxifen from working correctly in your body.
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