Fennel is a plant that has unique abilities and is used in official medicine as an additional therapy for certain health problems. Relatively recently, the fruits, greens and bulbs of this representative of the flora have become popular among those who want to lose weight. And the use of fennel is approved by nutritionists, albeit with some “amendments.”
What do fennel seeds look like?
Fennel is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. In appearance it resembles dill. Due to its beneficial properties, the plant is widely used in alternative medicine. Its seeds are especially valuable. They contain substances necessary for the human body to fight various diseases.
Fennel seeds, photos of which are presented below, are distinguished by their oblong shape and brownish tint. People also call them pharmaceutical dill. The seeds reach 8 mm in length and can be 3 mm in width. They are distinguished by a dense texture and have characteristic longitudinal stripes. A distinctive feature of the seeds is their rich spicy smell.
Whole seeds are most often used for brewing.
Attention! Before using fennel seeds for medicinal purposes, you should consult your doctor.
How to choose
People call fennel “sweet dill.” Only in fresh form does it retain all its beneficial properties. If you do not smell the plant, it means it is not fresh.
So, a recently picked plant:
- Its smell is reminiscent of anise;
- Without faded buds;
- With elastic and juicy stems;
- The bulb is almost white or pale green.
The maximum storage time at low temperatures is approximately four days!
Chemical composition
The benefits of fennel seeds are explained by their rich composition. It was known about it back in the days of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The specific taste and bright aroma are due to the rich content of essential oils. They are extremely beneficial for the human body. The seeds of the miraculous plant are considered dietary. There are only 31 kcal per 100 g. The chemical composition of fennel seeds is represented by the following substances:
- micro- and macroelements (phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, sodium, potassium, calcium, iron, copper);
- alimentary fiber;
- coumarins;
- flavonoids;
- vitamins of groups C, PP, B and A;
- glycosides;
- essential oils;
- fatty acid.
Vitamins in the composition of the remedy strengthen the immune system, preventing the risk of developing serious diseases. Minerals have a positive effect on the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Glycosides take part in metabolism and normalize heart rhythm. Flavonoids have an anti-inflammatory effect. Dietary fiber, in turn, restores the functioning of the digestive system. The carminative effect of the plant is achieved due to the content of fatty acids.
Beneficial properties of fennel for weight loss
The most important properties of this plant for weight loss include the ability to stimulate metabolism. This is a significant factor for people who are overweight. Due to large body weight, all body mechanisms begin to work uncoordinatedly, the metabolic rate decreases, which is one of the main reasons for weight gain.
Eating rhizomes and seeds helps normalize metabolic processes in the human body. Nutritionists strongly recommend introducing fennel fruits into their diet for people who want to lose extra pounds. Don't forget about the oils of this product: they can be used for anti-cellulite massage while taking a bath.
How can fennel seeds help you lose weight? They help reduce cravings for sweets. If you want to pamper yourself with candy, just chew the seeds and this desire will disappear, which means you will be able to avoid gaining extra pounds. The seeds also have a calming effect, because often it is stress that leads to excess weight gain.
With their mild sedative effect, fennel seeds can reduce nervous hunger, which means there will be no desire to eat problems and stress.
The rhizome improves the activity of the pancreas, has a beneficial effect on the absorption of sugars and fats by the human body, and normalizes the digestive processes of the body as a whole. If there is a full complex of vitamins and microelements required for normal life, the plant contains 32 kcal per 100 g.
Beneficial properties of fennel seeds for the human body
Fennel seeds are successfully used to increase appetite and strengthen the immune system. They have a positive effect on the functioning of the digestive system. The main feature is the carminative effect of the seeds. Thanks to it, it is possible to get rid of flatulence and painful sensations in the stomach. The seeds are often used to treat pathologies of the respiratory organs. They are effective against asthma, tuberculosis and various types of bronchitis. The beneficial properties of fennel seeds include:
- anti-inflammatory effect;
- calming effect;
- slowing down the aging process of the body;
- normalization of the gastrointestinal tract;
- improving the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
- strengthening the body's defenses;
- preventing the development of malignant diseases;
- prevention of iron deficiency anemia;
- antioxidant effect;
- relieving spasms;
- increased libido.
The main advantages of the remedy include its natural origin. It rarely causes side effects and can be used for preventive purposes. Fennel seeds can be used as an additional remedy. The substances in their composition increase the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria by strengthening the immune system.
Beneficial properties of fennel seeds for women
Fennel seeds are especially beneficial for women. They contain substances that help normalize the menstrual cycle and get rid of mood swings during PMS. They also have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which allows them to be used for gynecological diseases. In the 1st trimester of pregnancy, the remedy helps cope with the symptoms of toxicosis. But at any other time it is strictly prohibited to use it.
Fennel tea has a pleasant spicy taste
We recommend reading: Mint tea: beneficial properties and contraindications, how to make
Comment! Fennel decoction has a pronounced antioxidant effect.
Use of fennel seeds in medicine
Due to its many beneficial qualities, fennel seeds are widely used in alternative medicine. They are often used to strengthen the immune system and normalize metabolism. In addition, pharmaceutical dill is considered an excellent remedy in the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system. It helps remove mucus from the bronchi and relieve cough. With regular use, it will cope with eye fatigue and cleanse the body of toxins. But before using it, it is extremely important to study contraindications and possible side effects.
For cystitis
Anti-inflammatory properties make it possible to use fennel seeds to treat cystitis. At the same time, they have a diuretic effect. To increase the effectiveness of treatment, they are used together with a decoction of St. John's wort or lingonberry. Fennel is often found in multicomponent urological preparations. They help normalize urination and relieve inflammation.
For a cold
Fennel seeds are also effective against colds. Their decoction should be taken at the very beginning of the disease. In this case, therapy will be most effective. The desired effect is achieved by strengthening the immune system. The beneficial properties of the drink can be enhanced by adding honey to it. Take 3 times a day until symptoms disappear completely.
For acne
An infusion of fennel seeds has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin. That is why it is often used for acne. The infusion should be used as a tonic twice a day. It perfectly cleanses pores and stops the inflammatory process in the epidermis. Sometimes the medicinal drink is used to make homemade face masks.
Against cough
The expectorant effect makes fennel seeds effective for hacking coughs. They remove mucus from the lungs and reduce the frequency of coughing attacks. In this case, fennel tea is taken ½ tbsp. 3 times a day. Therapy targets not only the symptoms, but also the cause of the disease. It restores lung function and stops inflammatory processes.
It is not advisable to use damp fennel for medicinal purposes.
For joint pain
The substances present in the seeds of the medicinal plant have analgesic and warming effects. An infusion made from them is used to make compresses. It is applied to the problem area for several hours. This helps reduce pain and restore joint mobility.
With decreased vision
The medicinal plant is effective in relation to visual function. The result is achieved thanks to the presence of natural antioxidants in its composition - arginine and ascorbic acid. Treatment with fennel seeds improves vision and helps cope with inflammatory processes. The therapy is especially useful for older people. It helps cope with age-related changes.
To normalize lactation
Fennel seeds are often prescribed to nursing women in order to normalize lactation. They are mixed with fenugreek and dill seeds in the same ratio. The resulting mixture is poured with 1 tbsp. hot water. After infusion for 3 hours, take 3 tbsp of the drink. l. before every meal. This method helps to significantly increase the volume of milk produced.
For pancreatitis
For pancreatitis, fennel seeds help eliminate pain in the right hypochondrium. The desired effect is achieved by stimulating the outflow of bile. The use of a healing infusion helps prevent the formation of stones in the bile ducts. This reduces the risk of blockage.
Advice! To relieve inflammation of the gums and eliminate toothache, fennel tea is used to rinse the mouth.
Recipes for use
To speed up weight loss, all parts of the plant are used. There are a number of recommendations for their use:
- decoction, tea from fennel seeds should be drunk at least 3 times a day;
- You can add leaves and stems of the plant to any vegetable salad;
- The fruits (bulbs) are used to prepare a stew with vegetables, they are added to roast meat;
- The seeds can be consumed fresh, “pure”, just chew 3-5 pieces before eating and you will be able to reduce your appetite.
How to cook fruits (bulbs)
They can be eaten fresh - you just need to cut them into rings or half rings and add them to any salad. You just need to take into account that the fruit of the plant has a slight sweetish taste, so you need to know how to combine products. For example, a dish made from:
- arugula;
- pomegranate seeds;
- green onions;
- dried meat;
- fennel fruit.
All components are taken in arbitrary quantities, but there should be half as much meat. The dish is seasoned with olive oil, sprinkled with apple cider vinegar, and you can add a little salt and ground pepper.
Ingredients of a healthy salad for weight loss: fennel, celery, cheese, figs, honey, olive oil, wine vinegar, salt and pepper
The menu of low-calorie diets almost always includes fish, and to diversify the taste characteristics of this product, you can prepare a sauce from fennel fruits:
- the onion is chopped with a knife;
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan, add 2 cloves of garlic to it, quickly fry;
- add fennel, and after 5 minutes white wine and fish broth (100 ml of each ingredient);
- Separately beat 1 egg yolk and a tablespoon of heavy cream;
- combine the two mixtures and simmer until the sauce thickens.
At first glance, fennel sauce cannot be called dietary, but experts say that it would be appropriate as an additive to lean fish. And then, the presence of the onion still makes the dish healthy for the figure.
There is also a salad recipe that can replace one of the main meals, which will reduce the calorie content of the daily diet by 20 - 25%. You need to chop 1 fennel bulb, add the chopped pulp of half an avocado, add salt and pepper, sprinkle with lemon juice and enrich the dish with vegetable oil.
About the benefits of fennel and its use in cooking, watch this video:
Tea from seeds
It is very simple to prepare: you need to take 1 teaspoon of raw material per 200 ml of water and boil in a water bath for 30 minutes from the moment of gentle boiling. This tea can be consumed in an amount of 500 ml per day, but no more. The limitation is due to the fact that its diuretic effect can be too pronounced, and this leads to dehydration and leaching of vitamins, minerals and trace elements from the body.
You can add a small amount of grated fresh ginger root (to taste) or honey to the drink.
There is a recipe for tea with a more complex composition:
- you need to mix 1 teaspoon each of corn silk, dried fennel leaves/stems, chamomile flowers, green tea and add 2 teaspoons of seeds to it;
- The entire amount of herbal mixture is poured with 200 - 300 ml of water and left “alone” for 20 - 30 minutes (the herbs will swell).
Immediately before use, you need to take 1 tablespoon of the resulting mixture and dilute it with 150 ml of hot water - the drink is ready. You need to wait 5 - 10 minutes, and you can drink it like tea.
Seed oil
It is used only for anti-cellulite massage; you can also wipe the skin in problem areas (thighs, stomach, waist) while visiting a bathhouse or sauna. And you can prepare such a product yourself: you need to pour 2 tablespoons of raw materials into 200 ml of vegetable oil. Experts recommend giving preference to olive, but almond and corn can also be used.
It will be effective to use fennel seed oil, to which essential oils of rosemary, lavender or lemon are added - for 1 tablespoon of the main component, 10 drops of an additional one.
Contraindications to the use of fennel seeds
Fennel seeds can bring not only benefits, but also harm. Therefore, it is very important to consider contraindications to their use. Among them are:
- allergic reaction;
- epilepsy;
- 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy;
- cardiac dysfunction.
The plant is considered a common allergen. Before using it, it is important to exclude the presence of individual intolerance. It manifests itself as a skin rash, watery eyes and itchy sensations on the skin. In some cases, the use of a folk remedy can provoke bowel dysfunction.
Contraindications
First of all, you need to take into account the contraindications:
- individual intolerance to the herb, which often with its aroma provokes dizziness, nausea, allergic reactions in the form of rashes, sneezing and tearfulness;
- epilepsy;
- pregnancy (can cause premature birth);
- lactation (it is often recommended that nursing mothers use this plant to increase the amount of breast milk, but this property has not been scientifically proven, but it can cause a rash in a newborn);
- diarrhea;
- heart rhythm disturbances.
If you occasionally include fennel in your diet, there will be no harm from it even if these contraindications are present. But you shouldn’t expect a weight loss effect either. But as soon as you purposefully begin to include it in the system of fighting extra pounds, the volume of consumption increases significantly - this can lead to complications and side effects.
Through the pages of history. In the Middle Ages, the leaves and seeds of the plant were used as chewing gum for fresh breath.
Use of fennel seeds in cooking
Ground fennel seeds are used as a popular spice. It can be found in the composition of Provencal herbs. The seasoning is added to soups, main courses, baked goods and alcoholic drinks. It is often used to prepare a marinade for fish or meat. The spice gives the dish a rich taste and bright aroma.
The seasoning is often found in organic grocery stores.
Fennel Recipes for Fast Weight Loss
To prepare this dish you need the following ingredients:
Baked pink salmon with fennel
Difficulty: easy
Cooking time: 45 min.
Ingredients
- 1. Pink salmon (1 piece) 600 g
- 2. Carrots
2 pcs. - 3. Onion
1 pc. - 4. fennel bulb
1 pc. - 5. Salt and pepper
to taste - 6. Olive oil
by eye
1.Take the ingredients Clean the pink salmon, rub it with spices and oil, and marinate. While the fish is marinating, peel the vegetables, cut the onion and fennel into half rings, the carrots into slices, and sauté everything in a frying pan in oil. Place the fish on a baking sheet and stuff it with vegetables, placing the remaining ones on top of the fish. Cover with foil. Place in the oven for 35-40 minutes at 180°C.
- Calorie content: 135.8 Kcal per 100 g.
- Proteins: 16.3 g.
- Fat: 6.9 g.
- Carbohydrates: 1.7 g.
Fennel seed decoction
Difficulty: easy
Cooking time: 15 min.
Ingredients
- 1. fennel seeds 1 tbsp. l.
- 2. Chamomile
2 tbsp. l. - 3. Water
250 ml
- 1. Take the ingredients. Pour boiling water over the seeds and chamomile, keep in a water bath for 12 minutes, then remove from the heat and leave the broth for 30 minutes. Then we strain it through a sieve and drink it like tea.
Fennel seeds for weight loss
Due to its ability to stimulate metabolism, fennel seeds are often used for weight loss. For this, a decoction is prepared from them. 2 tsp. seeds pour 1 tbsp. water, bring the product to a boil. After boiling, it is kept on fire for 6 minutes. After removing from the heat, the drink is infused for another 20 minutes. It is taken in ½ tbsp. up to 3 times a day. The remedy helps remove excess fluid from the body and starts metabolic processes. This helps reduce appetite and get rid of extra pounds.
Rules of use
Many people don’t even know what fennel looks like and how it should be consumed when losing weight. An initial educational program will enlighten you on these basic issues.
To lose weight on fennel, you can eat all its parts: greens, seeds and fruits
Criterias of choice
- Choose a plant with bright green stems in the store. They should be elastic and dense to the touch, and not soft and flaccid.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3-5 days. As soon as you notice decay or mold, you have to throw it away.
- Storage method: paper bags.
- Before cooking, the bulb (white part) is separated from the green stem.
How to use?
Almost all parts of the plant can be eaten. The main thing is to be able to cook them.
- Greenery
The stem and leaves are crushed and used in soups, side dishes and salads as a seasoning. If you want to lose weight, take a teaspoon of raw materials per 200 grams of any dish. Moreover, you need to eat this three times a day.
- Seeds
Green fennel seeds go well with fish and meat diet dishes. It is better to grind them before use. They have a licorice smell and anise flavor. All kinds of drinks are most often prepared on their basis: tea, decoction, infusion, dill water. You need to drink them daily, at least 2 glasses a day.
- Fruit
White fruits (roots) of fennel in the form of bulbs are used specifically in dietary nutrition. They can be eaten raw or boiled. The former have a pronounced mint-dill taste, the latter have a more delicate and soft taste. The main thing is to cut them correctly in order to preserve all their beneficial and nutritional properties. Each onion is cut into four slices with a knife, the inner core and outer leaves (the toughest) are removed. And only then are these quarters finely chopped. Once a day, at least one dish should include these onions.
They cook well with vegetables. The traditional method is stewing. The result is a low-calorie and nutritious dish that fits very well into any diet or vegetable fasting day.
If you do not have allergies and can easily tolerate meals with this product, be sure to include it in your diet during your weight loss period. The approximate daily volume is about 200 grams. The course of intensive use is no more than 2 weeks.
With the world - one by one. An old English proverb says: “Whoever sees fennel and does not take it is no longer a man, but a real devil.”
Application in cosmetology
Fennel seeds have a positive effect on the condition of the skin due to the content of phytoestrogens and vitamins. These components are especially useful for mature women. They help prevent the appearance of age-related changes, even out complexion and cope with pigmentation. By stimulating the process of cell division, increased collagen production occurs. This affects the elasticity of the skin surface.
Regular use of face masks with the addition of fennel seeds helps protect the skin from external environmental influences. Fatty oils in their composition neutralize damage from ultraviolet rays and temperature changes. In addition, cosmetic products made from fennel seeds help cope with acne. Rinsing your hair with fennel decoction will stop hair loss and normalize sebum production.
Aromatherapy with fennel
The plant can be an excellent remedy not only for weight loss, but also for stabilizing the psycho-emotional background. If you conduct a 10-minute aromatherapy session with fennel seed oil in the evening, you can get rid of irritability and even stress due to the lack of a late dinner and hunger.
We recommend reading about beets for weight loss. You will learn about the beneficial properties of beets, diet options with beets, recipes for healthy dishes, contraindications, weight loss results. And here is more information about cabbage juice for weight loss.
Fennel is a fairly popular product in cooking. Thanks to its sweetish taste, it can be present not only in salads, but also in dessert-like dishes. By preparing fennel dishes according to the suggested recipes, you can speed up the process of losing weight and diversify your diet menu.
Where to get fennel seeds
Fennel seeds can be purchased at specialty spice stores or pharmacies. It's also easy to dry them yourself. The seeds are collected during their ripening period and cut off along with the branch. The drying process is carried out in a dry and warm but ventilated place. The shelf life of properly prepared product is 3 years. It must be stored in a tightly closed container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.
Important! If you develop an allergy to a medication, you should immediately take an antihistamine.
Contraindications for weight loss
There are no strict, categorical contraindications to the use of fennel as a means of losing weight. But doctors warn that you need to consult with your primary care physician if you have chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This is due to the fact that during the period of exacerbation, the use of fennel may be temporarily prohibited.
It is undesirable to get carried away with such weight loss during pregnancy, but while breastfeeding, it is quite possible to consume dishes and drinks with bulbs, stems or fruits. With them, the mother will be able to lose weight, and the newborn will not suffer from intestinal colic and increased gas formation with constipation.
Fennel belongs to the category of hypoallergenic products, but it is not recommended to exclude the possibility of an inadequate reaction to this product. The first signs of an allergy will be redness, itching of certain areas of the skin, swelling of the larynx or lips, and unmotivated nausea.
