Fennel, also known as saunf, is regarded to be one of the world’s oldest medicinal herbs, dating back centuries. The flowering plant fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is native to the Mediterranean region. Growing all over Asia, North America, and Europe, it belongs to the Apiaceae (carrot) family. Fennel seeds are a versatile culinary and medicinal herb that are a must in every Indian cooking. The outside of fennel seeds is crunchy, and they taste mildly sweet. There are a tonne of benefits offered by fennel seeds. Discover all about the possible health benefits of these well-known seeds by reading on.
Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds
The following are some common health benefits of fennel seeds:
May Support Heart Health
Potassium, which is found in fennel seeds, is crucial for preserving heart health and regulating blood pressure. In addition, the fiber content may improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
Improves Digestive Health
Fennel seeds contain beneficial essential volatile oils that are known to cause the secretion of digestive juice and enzymes, which helps with digestion. Saunf seeds are helpful in treating a variety of digestive woes, such as colic in kids, heartburn, flatulence, bloating, and heartburn. Irritable bowel syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and even ulcerative colitis are all conditions that can be effectively treated by the potent antispasmodic and carminative effects.
Promotes Lactation
Anethole, a compound found in saunf seeds, has galactogenic qualities that imitate the functions of estrogen hormone and boost breastfeeding mothers’ ability to produce more breast milk. In order to ensure a constant supply of breast milk for the newborn, saunf is a good addition to a lactating diet plan.
Aids With Weight Loss
Due to their high fiber content, fennel seeds may help people lose weight and fend off hunger sensations. Additionally, they boost metabolism while working as diuretics. Fennel seeds help you lose weight quickly when consumed with a balanced diet and workout. To achieve better outcomes, consume warm water and powdered roasted fennel seed on an empty stomach. Fennel seeds are also regarded as appetite suppressants since they help you stay full for longer (due to their high fiber content). This might also help you achieve your weight loss objectives and prevent overeating.
Aids In Eyesight Improvement
In Ayurveda, fennel seeds are frequently referred to as “Netra Jyoti.” Regularly consuming a tablespoon of fennel seeds can help improve your vision. According to studies, fennel seeds help with vision improvement because they contain a lot of vitamin A. Additionally, fennel seed extracts were employed in antiquity to treat glaucoma in patients. Antioxidants and nutrients found in abundance in fennel help to prevent cataract development and support healthy eyes.
Lessens Gas
Sipping saunf water after a substantial meal might be really beneficial for your digestive system. Due to its carminative properties, fennel seeds might aid in reducing gas and bloating. They can ease gastrointestinal discomfort and aid digestion by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
Purifies Blood
Fennel seeds contain essential oils as well as vital fiber that are thought to be very helpful in draining out toxins and waste from our systems, which helps to purify the blood. Additionally, it aids in the body’s optimal absorption of nutrients. According to research, fennel seeds’ polyphenol antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory properties that help fight different bacteria and viruses and protect you from illnesses.
Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties
Powerful free radical scavenging properties can be found in fennel seeds. Fennel seeds also assist in neutralizing the free radicals that cause cancer because of their antioxidants. For instance, the antioxidant anethole, which is abundant in fennel, has cancer-fighting properties. As a result, it combats oxidative stress and shields the body from various diseases like breast, stomach, and skin cancer. Additionally, it provides the patient with a chemo modulatory effect.
May Control Blood Pressure
According to a study that was written up in the Journal of Food Science, chewing saunf seeds increases the amount of nitrite in saliva, which acts as a natural way to control blood pressure. Additionally, the significant amounts of potassium in saunf, an essential component of cells and bodily fluids, help to govern acid-base balance, widen blood vessels, control heart rate, and stabilize blood pressure.
Enhanced Skin Appearance
Fennel extract benefits the skin by shielding it from free radical damage and enhancing skin cell longevity. Minerals including zinc, selenium, and potassium are rich in them. These minerals are essential for regulating hormones and preserving the proper level of oxygen in your blood. They are frequently used to treat rashes, dryness, and other skin conditions as well as acne.
Relieves Menstrual Symptoms
The worst monthly experience for a woman is her menstrual agony. Fennel seeds have been found to be just as potent as painkillers, according to research. In a similar manner to ibuprofen, it works. When used with ginger powder, it works significantly better. Fennel seeds should be a part of your diet if you have frequent or long lasting periods. These seeds, taken daily in amounts of 1-2 tablespoons, can lessen menstruation discomfort.
Precautions Of Consuming Fennel Seeds
Although fennel seeds offer many health benefits and are often included in diets, there are several precautions that should be taken to prevent serious and even deadly illnesses. Pregnant women should avoid fennel seeds. Preterm birth results from regularly consuming fennel seeds while pregnant. Fennel tea should not be consumed by breastfeeding women. That’s because breastfeeding infants after consuming fennel tea can harm their nervous systems. Fennel seeds may trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic to them or who are sensitive to plant seeds. Fennel seeds are known to slow down blood coagulation and raise the risk of bleeding and bruising, so anyone with bleeding disorders must avoid consuming them.
Final Words
Fennel seeds have a variety of health benefits including improving digestion and lowering inflammation as well as promoting heart health and offering vital minerals. These little seeds can improve your overall health when you include them in your diet. It’s important to remember that while fennel seeds may have certain health benefits, they shouldn’t be used in place of medical treatment. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional if you have specific health issues or illnesses before making major diet or lifestyle changes.
