by Elli Hall

Created on: December 11, 2009

The word fennel originates from the latin word 'foenum' in short which in turn means 'hay'. Fennel can grow up to six feet tall with green feathery leaves and golden flowers. The type of fennel used in essential oils is called sweet fennel. The oil has a herby, spicy scent that is similar to the smell of aniseed.

In the medieval times, it was known as 'fenkle'. It was very popular with the ancient Chinese, Egyptians and Romans. They believed that fennel could ward off evil spirits, cure dogs of fleas, help in the aid of colic and snake bites, and strengthen eyesight. Fennel was also supposed to portray longevity, courage and strength.

Fennel oil has quite a few therapeutic properties. The properties include

-peritif
-antiseptic
-antispasmodic
-carminative
-depurative
-diuretic
-emmenagogue
-expectorant
-galactagogue
-laxative
-stimulant
-stomachic
-splenic
-tonic
-vermifuge.

In detail, fennel oil has the ability to counter digestive complaints such as flatulence, constipation, colic, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, dyspepsia and hiccups. It is also used in weight loss methods because it creates that 'full feeling' that tells the body when to stop eating. Fennel oil can be used as a diuretic that aids in weight loss by getting rid of excess water. It can also aid by dispersing cellulite. When used in the face of stress or adversity, it gives the mind strength and courage. Also, when sweet fennel oil is applied to the skin it helps to alleviate bruising, normalize oily skin and lessen wrinkles.

Fennel oil works best in aromatherapy to add strength and courage to the mind.  To help with digestive problems, fennel oil works best used as a massage oil applied to the skin or in bath water.  With bruising, wrinkles and oily skin, lotions and creams that consist mainly of fennel oil would probably work best.

*Sweet fennel oil is the type of fennel oil that is most commonly used especially in aromatherapy. Bitter fennel oil on the other hand cannot be used in aromatherapy and should not be applied to the skin at all. Sweet fennel is very powerful and it is advised to use a very low dosage and sweet fennel oil can act as a sort of narcotic. In cases of epilepsy and in pregnancy, fennel oil should be avoided because it contains very high amounts of trans-anethole.*

*Be sure to thoroughly investigate any herb or herbal essential oil before using.  Do not ingest or apply heavy to the skin without proper instruction, and like with any oil if side-effects occur or if you think that you may be having an allergic reaction immediately discontinue use.*

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