Last updated on : 12 Nov, 2024
Read time : 10 min
Fennel seeds or Saunf seeds are popularly used as ingredients in Indian Kitchens. It is also known as Foeniculum vulgare. It is a herb and belongs to the carrot family. Fennel seeds have a recognisable long and thin shape and are pale green or brown in colour. Its leaves can be consumed as a vegetable. Besides its numerous uses in the kitchen, Fennel seeds offer a wide array of health benefits. Eating Saunf seeds after meals is considered a healthy practice, primarily because of its ability to keep the digestive system healthy. Fennel seed tea can help with digestion woes. It is also good for the reproductive and respiratory systems. Saunf water is used to relieve a cranky baby. It is also an excellent remedy for breast milk production in lactating mothers. Know more about this herb, its composition, uses of Fennel seeds, Saunf water benefits, side effects of Saunf and much more.
Fennel seeds are rich in carbohydrates, dietary fibre, protein, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and other essential minerals. Here is its nutritional composition:
Nutritional component | Value |
Water | 8.81g |
Energy | 345kcal |
Protein | 15.8g |
Carbohydrates | 52.3g |
lipid | 14.9g |
Fibre | 39.8g |
Calcium | 1200mg |
Iron, Fe | 18.5mg |
Magnesium, Mg | 385mg |
Phosphorus, P | 487mg |
Potassium, K | 1690mg |
Sodium, Na | 88mg |
Zinc, Zn | 3.7mg |
Copper, Cu | 1.07mg |
Fatty acids, total saturated | 0.48g |
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 9.91g |
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 1.69g |
Here are the properties of Fennel seeds:
Fennel tea is known to aid healthy digestion. It is a natural remedy for constipation, stomach pain, diarrhea, and colic in children. It is also used to treat other digestive problems. The main Fennel seeds benefits include:
Fennel seeds are used for various mouth-related ailments. For mouth ulcers or dental wounds, its leaves can be chewed and applied directly to the ulcer. Gum disorders are treated using a mouthwash made from Fennel fruit and seeds.
Fennel seeds play a crucial role in supporting digestive health. They are known for alleviating constipation and symptoms associated with digestive disorders such as gastritis, stomach pain, flatulence, nausea, irritable colon, diarrhoea, and colic in children. The extracts from Fennel seeds are commonly consumed to ease these discomforts and promote healthy digestion.
Fennel leaves and flowers are used to make a drink that helps with conjunctivitis.
Saunf water benefits patients with kidney problems. Fennel seed extract acts as a diuretic. The plant’s tender parts can be eaten raw or boiled, and the entire plant can be used. Fennel leaf infusion is also consumed to aid in diuresis.
Fennel seeds aid in treating insomnia by calming the nerves and promoting relaxation. They contain compounds that help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, which can improve sleep quality.
Fennel seeds have stress-relieving properties due to their natural phytochemicals. These compounds help reduce cortisol levels in the body, thereby mitigating stress and promoting a sense of calm.
Fennel supports kidney function by acting as a diuretic, which means it increases urine production. This helps in flushing out toxins and excess fluids from the body, supporting overall kidney health.
Fennel seeds are beneficial in the treatment of leucorrhoea due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They help in reducing inflammation and fighting infections that may cause abnormal vaginal discharge.
Fennel seed oil promotes hair growth by nourishing the scalp and stimulating hair follicles. Boiled Fennel root tea is effective for mosquito control due to its natural repellent properties.
Saunf water benefits arthritis patients Consuming Fennel leaf infusion helps alleviate arthritis and joint pain. The infusion contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and discomfort.
Fennel leaf infusions are used to treat fever by promoting sweating, which aids in reducing body temperature and supporting the body’s immune response.
Fennel leaves and flowers in infusion form are consumed as part of cancer treatment due to their antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and support overall health.
Saunf water benefits heart patients. Chewing Fennel leaves provides antihypertensive and anti-cholesterolemic effects, helping to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thereby promoting heart health.
Fennel seeds have natural laxative effects, aiding in digestion and relieving constipation by promoting bowel movements.
Fennel is used to treat colds and coughs due to its expectorant properties, which help loosen mucus and ease respiratory congestion.
Saunf water benefits lactating mothers, Fennel seeds are known to increase breast milk production in lactating mothers. Drinking Fennel seed tea or incorporating Fennel seeds into meals supports lactation by stimulating milk flow.
Dried Fennel seeds are often used in cooking as an anise-flavored spice. Here are a few ways to incorporate Fennel seeds into food:
To use Fennel seeds, first, toast them lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until they release their aroma. Let them cool, then grind them into a powder. You may store it for later use in an airtight jar to maintain freshness. It can be added in many dishes. For tea, steep whole seeds in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. You can also use the seeds whole or ground in recipes, or sprinkle them over.
Fennel seeds can be added to your diet in various ways to enhance flavour and nutrition. Here are some ways to add it:
Side effects of Saunf are rare. Saunf seeds are generally safe when added in food in moderation. Fennel tea and other herbal preparations are beneficial and well-tolerated in recommended amounts. However, excessive intake of Fennel oil can lead to nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Fennel essential oil is toxic even in small doses and can cause skin irritation, vomiting, seizures, and respiratory issues, so it should not be ingested.
Follow these precautions for the safe use of Fennel seeds:
Sauf benefits in aiding digestion, relieving bloating and gas, and promoting satiety which helps in weight management. They also have antioxidant properties that support overall health and may help in reducing inflammation in the body. Additionally, Fennel seeds are used traditionally to alleviate menstrual cramps and improve lactation in nursing mothers.
Fennel seeds are also called Saunf.
You can eat Fennel seeds daily in moderate amounts as they are generally safe and beneficial for digestion.
Fennel seeds are safe when used in food moderately. Fennel tea and herbal preparations are beneficial in recommended doses but excessive Fennel oil intake may cause nausea, vomiting, and seizures; the essential oil is toxic and should not be ingested.
Fennel seeds may cause gas due to their carminative properties, stimulating digestion and gas production in sensitive individuals.
Pregnant women and individuals with carrot allergies should avoid consuming Fennel seeds in excess.
Disclaimer
Our healthcare experts have carefully reviewed and compiled the information presented here to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. It is important to note that this information serves as a general overview of the topic and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. This page does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, nor does it replace the advice or consultation of a registered medical practitioner. We recommend seeking guidance from your registered medical practitioner for any questions or concerns regarding your medical condition.
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