Fennel is a plant that yields a seed-like fruit. You can also use the leafy growth of it as an herb. Fennel is also called common fennel or bronze fennel, while the Latin name of fennel is foeniculum vulgare. Fennel plants belong to the apiaceae family. Other members of the apiaceae family include caraway, anise, cumin, cilantro and dill.
Background
According to the "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," the medicinal uses of fennel date back to ancient Greece, when herbalists used it as an appetite suppressant to stimulate weight loss. The Roman historian Pliny the Elder stated that consuming fennel would help you maintain your eyesight. Today people use fennel as both an herbal medication and as a culinary ingredient. Although fennel has several purported medicinal uses, clinical evidence does not support the use of fennel as an herbal supplement.
Definition and Facts
Common fennel is a tall plant that often reaches 5 feet or more in height. At the top of the fennel plant are feathery leaves. These feathery leaves are the portion people typically consume as both an herb and fruit. Florence fennel only reaches a height of about 2 feet and has yellow flowers. Florence fennel has a sweet, slightly licorice-like taste, similar to anise. According to "Therapeutic Herb Manual," fennel provides a healthy source of antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system.
Uses
Fennel is a key flavoring in Italian food. Common dishes that include fennel include Italian sausage, baked goods such as zuccherini, Italian wedding cookies, fish dishes and soup. Additionally, you will often find fennel in curry dishes and Chinese five-spice powder. As an herbal supplement, people take fennel to increase milk secretion, increase libido, promote menstruation and facilitate birth. Additionally, fennel may have anti-inflammatory effects. However, current clinical studies do not support the medicinal use of fennel to treat these medical conditions.
Gardening, Preservation and Harvest
Common fennel is a sun-loving perennial, while the Florence fennel prefers cooler weather. Florence fennel grows every year from a seed. You should plant fennel in its own bed, because the fennel may adversely affect the quality of other plants. Dry the fennel leaves and fruit prior to using them in either herbal remedies or cuisine. You can also freeze the fennel leaves. To harvest the fruit, collect the dead flower heads and store them in closed paper bag. Store this paper bag in a cool, dry place until you plan to use the fruit.
References
- Drugs.com: Fennel
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual;" Ed Smith; 2007
- University of Michigan Health Systems: Fennel
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine;" Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno; 1997
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