Fennel Seed
Tall and feathery, with umbrella-shaped clusters of yellow flowers, fennel has been grown in kitchen and herb gardens for millennia. Its small, ridged seeds have a sweet, anise-like flavour that is instantly recognisable.
At a glance
- Botanical name: Foeniculum vulgare
- Plant family: Carrot family (Apiaceae)
- Part we use: Seed
- Native to: The Mediterranean
- Character: Sweet and aniseed-like
History and tradition
Fennel was well known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. In Greek mythology, Prometheus is said to have carried fire from the gods to humankind in a hollow stalk of giant fennel, a close relative of the herb.
It also has a place in early English herbal tradition. Fennel appears in the Anglo-Saxon Nine Herbs Charm, one of the oldest recorded herbal texts in English.
In India, roasted fennel seeds are often offered after meals, either on their own or as part of mukhwas, a colourful after-dinner mix of seeds and spices. It is one of the most enduring after-meal herbal traditions in the world.
Where you will find Fennel Seed in our tinctures
- In DIGESTION, Fennel Seed brings its sweet, aromatic character and long history in after-meal preparations. It complements the bitter Artichoke leaf and earthy Burdock and Dandelion roots.
- It also features in the Restore mini tincture inside the Reset Box.
Did you know?
Florence fennel, the bulb vegetable sold in supermarkets, is a variety of the same species as the herb whose seeds we use.
Good to know
Fennel is a member of the carrot family. If you are allergic to celery, carrot or related plants, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use. Fennel is not recommended in concentrated forms during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
As with any herbal supplement, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Meet more herbs
If you enjoyed learning about Fennel Seed, you may also like Spearmint, Ginger Root and Artichoke Leaf. Or browse every plant in our blends on Meet the Herbs.
Blooming Blends tinctures are food supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
