Fennel oil, Bitter, USA

Category      Essential Oils

                       Foeniculum vulgarie Miller,

Species        ssp, piperitum, fam. Apiaceae

                       (Umbelliferae)

Part               Seed

Method        Steam Distilled

Country        USA

Code             FoeVul3

Fennel oil, Bitter, USA

Fennel oil, Bitter, USA is also known as Common Fennel oil.  It is obtained by steam distillation of the dried seeds.  Yields range from just above two percent to nearly seven percent.  Chemically it is quite similar to sweet fennel with high anethole content, up to 60 percent.  However it has a spicier less-sweet aroma.  Analysis of USA Bitter Fennel reveals minor components like GERMACRENE-D, methyl chaviol, camphor, and even trace amounts of menthol (probably due to wild mint in the fields).  The resulting aroma is grassy-herbal and mildly sweet.

Action:  Fennel stimulates estrogen production, facilitates birthing, increases lactation, promotes digestion, reduces indigestion, supports the heart and respiratory system, expels worms, is stimulating to the circulatory and respiratory systems.  It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, and analgesic. 

Traditional Uses:  Fennel was believed to ward off evil spirits and to protect against spells cast by witches during medieval times.  Sprigs were hung over doors to fend off evil spirits.   For hundreds of years, fennel seeds have been used as a digestive aid and to balance menstrual cycles.  Recently it has been used in mouthwashes and toothpastes. 

Indications:  Cystitis, sluggish digestion, fluid retention, gout, intestinal parasites, intestinal spasms, nausea, menopause and pre-menopause problems.

Other Uses:  Fennel oil may be used for indigestion, stimulating the cardiovascular and respiratory system, for constipation, digestion, balancing hormones, supporting pancreatic function, and PMS.  It may break up fluids and toxins, and cleanse the tissues.

Application:  Apply topically diluted with a vegetable or massage oil.

Safety Data:  If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician.

NOTE:  Use caution if epilepic.

Companion Oils:  Basil, geranium, lavender, lemon, rosemary CT cineol, and sandalwood.