Botanical
Fennel (Digestive/Carminative)
Also known as: Foeniculum vulgare, Fennel seed, Sweet fennel
B
Evidence
Traditional carminative herb for gas, bloating, and colic with mild estrogenic properties.
Primary uses
- Gas relief
- Bloating
- Colic
- Digestive support
How it works
- Relaxes GI smooth muscle
- Reduces gas formation
- Traditional for infant colic
- Mild estrogenic activity
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-2 tsp seeds as tea or 300-600mg extract
- Timing
- After meals for gas
- With food
- After meals
- Duration
- As needed
- Special populations
- Bloating, gas, infant colic (diluted oil massage)
Forms
- Tea
- Seeds (chewed)
- Capsules
- Essential oil
Safety
Common side effects
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- Photosensitivity
Contraindications
- Hormone-sensitive cancers
- Estrogen-dependent conditions
Evidence notes
Traditional use with supporting evidence
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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