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| Alternative Names: Common Fennel, Sweet Fennel or Bitter Fennel, Carosella, Florence Fennel, Finocchio, Garden Fennel, Large Fennel, Wild Fennel, F. officinale, Anethum foeniculum.. Fennel is native to the Mediterranean region, but is now cultivated worldwide. It is an aromatic perennial that grows to about five feet (~2metres) in height, having dark green, feathery leaves, umbels of yellow flowers, and small, ridged, oval-shaped seeds, which are gathered in the autumn. The tall stalk looks like celery and is often consumed as vegetables, while the leaves and seeds are used to flavour foods. History; Source The name "foeniculum" is from the Latin word for "fragrant hay." Fennel is one of the oldest cultivated plants and much valued by the Romans. In medieval times, the seeds were chewed to stop gastric rumblings during church services. The plant was introduced to North America by Spanish priests and the English brought it to their early settlements in Virginia. All parts of the plant have been used for flavorings, and the stalks have been eaten as a vegetable. Although the root is sometimes used medicinally, it is not as effective as the seeds and used mainly as a vegetable. An infusion from the seeds makes a good gargle for sore throats or used as a mild expectorant. Essential oil is used for digestive and relaxing needs. When combined with such urinary antiseptics as uva-ursi, it makes an effective treatment for cystitis. Other benefits of Fennel:
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| IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) |