Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Botanical Classification

  • Scientific Name: Foeniculum vulgare
  • Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
  • Common Names: Sweet Fennel, Wild Fennel, Fenkel

Parts Used

  • Seeds: The most commonly used part, rich in volatile oils, aiding digestion and respiratory health.
  • Leaves: Used as a mild digestive and diuretic aid.
  • Bulb: Contains nutrients and fiber, used in food and mild medicinal applications.
  • Roots: Occasionally used, though less potent than seeds.

Constituents

  • Volatile Oils (Anethole, Fenchone, Estragole): Carminative, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial properties.
  • Flavonoids (Rutin, Quercetin): Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Phenolic Compounds: Protective for liver and immune health.
  • Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Medicinal Uses

Equine Use

  • Digestive Support:
    • Helps with gas, colic, and indigestion.
    • Used for soothing an irritated stomach.
  • Milk Production in Mares:
    • Traditionally given to mares to stimulate lactation.
  • Respiratory Benefits:
    • Acts as an expectorant, helping clear mucus.

Usage:

  • Seeds (crushed or powdered): in feed.
  • Infusion (tea): added to feed or water.

⚠ Precautions:

  • Avoid excessive use in pregnant mares due to estrogenic effects.
  • Use caution in horses prone to laminitis, as fennel contains natural sugars.

Canine Use

  • Digestive Support:
    • Helps with gas, bloating, nausea, and poor appetite.
  • Respiratory Aid:
    • Can ease mild coughs and congestion.
  • Urinary Health:
    • Acts as a mild diuretic, useful for urinary tract health.

Usage:

  • Dried Seeds (ground): added to food.
  • Infusion (tea): given in small amounts.

⚠ Precautions:

  • Avoid in pregnant or nursing dogs without veterinary guidance.
  • Use in moderation—excessive amounts may cause digestive upset.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Uses

  • Protection & Warding Off Evil:
    • In medieval Britain and the Isle of Man, fennel was hung over doors to protect against witches and evil spirits.
    • It was believed that fennel could purify the home and ward off bad luck.
  • Healing & Strength:
    • Used by herbalists to treat fevers and digestive issues.
    • Fennel seeds were chewed by travelers for energy and endurance.

Conclusion

Fennel is a versatile herb with digestive, respiratory, and hormonal benefits for humans, horses, and dogs.

In UK and Isle of Man folklore, it was valued for protection, purification, and healing.

Care should be taken with pregnant animals and overuse due to its mild estrogenic effects.

Digestion

Inflamation

Respiratory

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)