Latin: Foeniculum vulgare
Sanskrit: Mahdurika
Chinese: Xiao hui xiang
WHAT IT DOES: Fennel seed is sweet in taste, carminative and aromatic. It strengthens the digestion, freshens the breath, reduces gas and relieves lower
abdominal pain.
RATING: Silver, due to mild action
SAFETY ISSUES: None known
STARTING DOSAGE:
• Seed: one to two grams, two to three times per day
TCM doctors find fennel seed useful for relieving menstrual and lower abdominal pain. TAM doctors use it to strengthen digestion, which is helpful in the treatment of dysentery, colitis and flatus. Fennel seeds should be kept in every kitchen, and used according to the Indian custom of chewing a small handful of them after meals to aid digestion and freshen breath. Western herbalists use it in tincture formulas for colic in children.
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