Fennel is a tall herb with hollow stems and yellow flowers. An aromatic spice, fennel is commonly known as ‘saunf’ in India. Fennel seeds are the dried seed of the fennel herb, and look like cumin seeds, only greener. They have an aniseed flavour and a warm, sweet aroma. Fennel is used in many different cuisines, from Indian to Italian, to contemporary fusion, and all parts of the plant are used, including the leaves, seeds, and bulb. Fennel seed is very effective for digestion issues. It can help the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal system relax and reduce gas, bloating, and stomach cramps.
Fennel seeds are used to make a potent and strong-smelling herbal tea. The tea tastes a little like licorice, with a relaxing scent and slightly bitter aftertaste. Fennel tea is most often made with fennel seeds that have been lightly crushed to release their nutrient-rich oils. It's easy to make your own fennel tea at home. For the simplest approach: Take one teaspoon of fennel seeds and add it to two cups of boiling water. Allow the seeds to steep for a few minutes before drinking. If you prefer something with a bit more flavor and variety, add one tablespoon of crushed fennel seeds and a quarter inch of lightly crushed ginger to the pot and let the mixture boil for three to five minutes. Strain it, add a half teaspoon of honey (or to taste), and enjoy.
