Fennel - Sweet

Foeniculum vulgare var dulce

Reference	AMEOFEN
Part of plant	Seed
Country of Origin	France

Applications
Sweet fennel seed oil provides comfort and regularity for troubled and delicate digestive systems and may promote a renewed, healthy appetite. Those suffering from cramp, colic and flatulence may benefit from its gentle, therapeutic warmth and it has been used to treat these conditions in children. In cases of cellulite or fluid retention, fennel seed is thought by some to purge the system and also to clear the spleen, gall bladder and liver of impurities ? including alcohol. May be used to aid with congestion of the upper respiratory tract.

Due to its oestrogen-like effect, sweet fennel oil has been used to increase the secretion of breast-milk in nursing mothers and also as a remedy for obesity. It has been recommended for regulating the menstrual cycle and may be used during menopause to reduce the symptoms caused by fluctuating levels of hormones.

How to Use
Diluted in a vegetable oil, in a vaporiser, in the bath.

Safety Data
Generally regarded as non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising. Because of the oestrogen-like effect it is prudent to avoid the oil during pregnancy. The oil is often contraindicated for use by persons suffering from epilepsy but there is no pharmacological evidence to suggest that any of the components of sweet fennel essential oil are neurotoxic in the doses used in aromatherapy.

About the Product
Such a diverse range of positive attributes have been attributed to fennel over the centuries that it may be a surprise to discover that the plant can indeed offer many demonstrable attributes. Although fennel's reputation as a preventative of witchcraft and deterrent of evil spirits has passed into folklore and legend, the extracted oil is known to boost the appetite and remove digestive complications ? even though poorer people used to eat fennel to lessen pangs of hunger. Used in skin care, the extract will cleanse and freshen oily skin, and promote radiance in dull and more mature complexions. Fennel produces a mild oestrogenic effect which may be beneficial in stimulating menstrual flow, lessening menopausal symptoms and increasing milk supply in nursing mothers, but as such it should not be used during pregnancy. May be moderately irritating.