There are two main varieties of Fennel: Bitter or Common Fennel, slightly
taller with less divided leaves occurring in a cultivated or wild form; and
Sweet Fennel (also known as Roman, garden or French Fennel), which is always
cultivated. Sweet Fennel is grown principally in France, Greece and Italy.
The plant is recognized for its distinctive feathery leaves and golden
flowers. All parts of the Fennel plant are aromatic and used in flavoring.
Because of their distinctive and popular aroma, the seeds from which Sweet
Fennel essential oil originates are used as a base ingredient for many
culinary, medicinal, and cleansing products.
Sweet Fennel essential oil has a recognized use in treatment products for
infant colic. It is also popular in treating other gastro-intestinal
complaints such as indigestion and flatulence and hiccups. Sweet Fennel has
also been linked as a therapeutic herb in the treatment of kidney and
urinary related conditions. It has been known for centuries as a herb which
has positive therapeutic effects on the female reproductive system. It is
suggested that Sweet Fennel has a hormone similar to the female hormone
oestrogen.
Sweet Fennel essential oil is distinctly aromatic with a fragrance
characteristic of aniseed. Its top notes are sweet and clean whilst bottom
notes are spicy and peppery.
As an aromatic herb, Sweet Fennel oil has both warming and stimulating
properties. It also has invigorating and restoring effects.
Due to their sensitivity to certain oils, epileptics are advised to
avoid the use of Sweet Fennel oil as there is a risk of the provocation
of an epileptic fit in the sufferer. It is also advised that pregnant
women refrain from use. As a relatively non-toxic oil, Sweet Fennel is
best used in a concentration of around 0.5%.
Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of a
qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general use
only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Pregnant women should always consult their physician prior to using.
