Fennel Seed (organic) – The Aromatic Digestive Spice
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a flavorful, aromatic herb used for both culinary and medicinal applications. Its bulb, stalk, leaves and seeds are all edible, sought-after ingredients in native Mediterranean dishes. Fennel seed has an anise-like flavor and is regarded as one of the nine Anglo-Saxon sacred herbs due to its remarkable health benefits.1 Traditionally used as a remedy for flatulence and indigestion, for centuries herbalists have recommended these seeds to induce milk production in nursing mothers. Not just a wonderful treat for the taste buds, Fennel can also help boost one’s health.
Read on to discover more about these delightful tasting seeds …
General Information
Fennel belongs to a large family of herbs which includes such common spices as dill, cumin, anise and caraway. Fennel plants can grow up to 5-6 feet high, with a pale green bulb and long succulent stalks. Although fennel seeds closely resemble anise seeds, they are smaller, about 3-4 mm long. Fennel seeds are pale green in color when fresh and with fine vertical lines on their surface. They are a popular flavoring for baked goods and sweets. In India and Pakistan Fennel seeds are roasted and eaten after a meal to freshen the breath and aid digestion.
Nutrients and Benefits
Not only do Fennel seeds add a delightful flavor to food, they are also a great source of nutritional benefits including:
- Kaempferol and quercetin, powerful flavonoid antioxidants which help protect the body from harmful free radicals.
- Dietary fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive tract and may aid in weight management.
- Health-promoting volatile essential oil compounds like mycene, limonene, fenchone and anethole which are known for their antioxidant properties and for promoting healthy digestion.
- Minerals copper, iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc and magnesium are present in large amounts and aid the blood, heart, bones, digestive system and general well-being.
- Vitamins A, E, C and B-complex vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine are present in good concentrations. They may boost the immune system.
Product Specifications/Applications
Product Name: Fennel Seed Powder (organic)
Country of Origin: India
Solubility: Partly-soluble
Color, Taste, Aroma: Light to pale green powder
Certifications: Organic and Kosher, produced in a BRC certified facility
Fennel Seed Powder (organic) can be used in a large variety of nutraceutical applications including capsules/tablets, dietary supplements, functional foods and beverages, health tonics, herbal blends, toothpaste and even pet care products.
Contact us for a free sample and further product information.
References:
1 http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/fennel-seed.html
