Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Fennel is a herb which
is grown in several parts of the world including China, South Asia and North America. All parts of the plant are edible. The seeds of the plant have been used in the preparation of medicines to treat a variety of ailments for a long time. It is sweet to taste. 



Fennel Seeds
Source: Jonathunder: Wikimedia Commons
Fennel Nutrition Facts

Fennel plant and seeds are rich in minerals like manganese, calcium, potassium and magnesium. It is also rich in dietary fiber. Dietary fiber helps to reduce the chances of intestinal cancer and expels toxins from the body. It can also help to reduce the cholesterol levels. It contains vitamin C which helps to improve the immune system.


Fennel Tea Recipe

Add one tbsp of powdered fennel seeds to two cups of water and boil it for 2-3 minutes and let it simmer for a while. Then filter it and add a tbsp of lemon juice and honey to taste.


Digestion


Fennel seeds are a very good remedy for upset stomach and irritable bowel syndrome. Fennel tea can help to improve digestion and relieve stomach cramps. It is also a very good remedy for constipation. Drinking fennel tea after food helps to promote digestion by breaking down proteins. It also expels gas and relieves flatulence. Powdered fennel seeds can be used as laxative. It can also get rid of gas and cure heartburn. It increases the rate of metabolism and aids weight loss.


Fennel Tea for Colds and Cough


Fennel tea helps to treat colds, cough and respiratory tract infections. It can be used as a gargle to relieve sore throat. Cardamom and coriander seeds can be added in the preparation of fennel tea adding to its flavor.


Anemia


Fennel tea contains iron, which is an important constituent of hemoglobin. It also contains histidine which stimulates the production of hemoglobin. It can cure anemia.


Eyes


Drinking fennel tea can help to protect eyes from inflammation. Fennel is an antioxidant as it contains vitamin C and amino acids. It can also protect eyes from age related problems like macular degeneration.


Diuretic


Fennel is a diuretic. According to a study in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology”, fennel tea can help to increase the rate of urination because of its diuretic properties. It also helps to increase the amount of urination.


High Blood Pressure


Potassium counteracts the effects of sodium on the body and reduces blood pressure. Vitamin C which is present in fennel also helps to reduce blood pressure. According to “The Science Daily” taking large amounts of vitamin C can reduce the blood pressure levels moderately.


Baby Colic


Fennel tea can help to relieve baby colic according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It helps to improve digestion and can be used as a food supplement by lactating mothers. It can also be fed to the baby.


These are some of the health benefits of fennel tea.



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