Fennel essential oil is steam-distilled from the crushed leaves of the Foeniculum vulgare plant in the parsley family. Some natural properties of fennel are antiparasitic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, diuretic, and expectorant. Its scent is a sweet, spicy aroma similar to licorice.

Historically, the ancient Egyptians and Romans bestowed great warriors with fennel garlands to praise them for victory. Fennel was believed to enhance strength, courage, and longevity. For thousands of years it has been used to treat snakebites; stave hunger; help female reproduction, earaches, eye problems, kidney issues, and lung infection; and expel parasites.

Fennel essential oil affects the digestive and hormonal systems. Fennel is commonly used for alcoholism, blood clots, bruises, colic, gas, gout, obesity, parasites, PMS, vomiting, and wrinkles. The French also use it for lactation and menopause problems as well as urinary stones. Diffusing it may increase courage, encourage purification, and stimulate sympathetic nervous system activity.

Safety Data: Repeated use can possibly result in contact sensitization. Use with caution if susceptible to epilepsy. Use with caution during pregnancy.

Ways to Use Fennel Essential Oil:

1. Fennel essential oil is perfect for adding that sweet, spicy flavor to your next meal. Here are a few we’ve come up with to get you started!
   

   White Bean and Chicken Chili

   

   Leftover Turkey Curry

   

   DIY Essential Oil Breathmints
2. Fennel essential oil can help with digestion and alleviate bloating. Combine 5 drops fennel with 1 tsp. (5 ml) fractionated coconut oil in a small roll-on bottle, and apply on stomach once or twice a day as needed.
3. Diarrhea is never a good thing, but fennel essential oil can help get rid of it! Just blend 3 drops peppermint and 2 drops fennel with 1 tsp. (5 ml) fractionated coconut oil in a small roll-on bottle, and apply over your stomach as needed.
4. Fennel helps to regulate hormones and balance the reproductive system and can be very valuable in a diffuser blend to help any hormonal problems you may have! Just add 3 drops fennel, 2 drops cypress, and 2 drops clary sage to your diffuser, and breathe in deep!

See the Reference Guide for Essential Oils to learn more about fennel oil and many other pure essential oils.

Sources:

Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2018 Edition, p. 78.

Aromatherapy Blends & Remedies by Franzesca Watson