Fennel

Latin name: Foeniculum Vulgare
Part used: Ground seeds
Origin: Ukraine
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Use: for external use only (never ingest), suitable for fragrance burners/diffusers, dilute in a fragrance-neutral base oil for use in a (foot)bath and on the skin (undiluted essential oil can irritate sensitive skin). 

Fennel Essential Oil is obtained from the plant Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce, which is sweet fennel, also known as Roman fennel. It is extracted from the crushed seeds by means of steam distillation. 

The oil, like the seeds, is beneficial for digestion and for a number of other conditions. It is used in aromatherapy to treat oily skin, wrinkles, and heaviness. This oil is a popular remedy for digestive problems such as flatulence, constipation, colic, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and dyspepsia. It also aids in weight loss because it promotes a feeling of fullness. It is believed that its diuretic effect helps to disperse cellulitis. Fennel oil is said to strengthen the spleen and liver. It has a cleansing and toning effect on the skin and helps with bruises. 

It is said to stimulate courage, determination, and strength.

Caution: this oil should not be used in large doses and must be completely avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and by people suffering from breast cancer and epilepsy. 

The word fennel is derived from the Latin 'foenum', which means 'hay'. In the Middle Ages, it was known as 'Fenkle'. It was a popular herb used by the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, and Romans, who believed that fennel helped to prolong life and improved a person's courage and strength. It was also believed to ward off evil spirits. Fennel is said to have been used to improve eyesight, cure snake bites, and relieve colic. In India, plain, roasted, or mint-coated fennel seeds, called 'saunf', are often served after meals to aid digestion.