Fennel for Digestion

The seeds of this little plant, not only taste wonderful, but have numerous healing properties as well. It may be worth planting a few seeds this spring in your garden for use as an after dinner tea.
Uses: The seeds flavor breads, curries, apple pie, and fish sauces and are sprouted as a salad herb. The seeds are chewed to decrease hunger and ease indigestion. Fennel is fantastic at relieving gas pains associated with intestinal discomfort. The seeds can be brewed as a tea for relieving constipation, to increase breast milk and regulate menstruation. Seed and leaf steams aid deep skin cleansing. The essential oil (used conservatively) is used in a muscle-toning massage.

Women's Health: The antispasmodic action of fennel helps to soothe muscles contractions in the uterus, but in a strong enough dosage it may stimulate the uterus to bring on menstruation. Fennel has a mild estrogenic effect, which means it acts like the female hormone estrogen. This is why it is contributed to increase mother's milk and bring on menstruation. Older women may wish to try fennel to aid the discomforts associated with menopause.

Dosage: 1-2 teaspoons fennel seeds per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
A weakened tea can be given to babies to ease colic.