Herbal Medicus
Saunf | Fennel | سونف
Saunf | Fennel | سونف
Arabic Name : Raaziyaanaj, Shamaar, Shamra
English Name : Fennel, Sweet Fennel, Fenkel
Hindi Name : Saunf
Latin name : Foeniculum vulgare Mill.
Persian Name : Raaziyaana, Raaziyaam
Sanskrit Name : Madhurika, Mishreya, Shatapushpa
Urdu Name : Saunf, Badiyan
Fennel:
The oil is antispasmodic, aromatic, bactericidal, carminative, stimulant and is considered useful in diseases of the chest and is also useful in flatulence, constipation, bloating, belching, infantile colic and checks griping of purgatives.
The fruits are analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antiemetic, antifungal, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, antitussive, aperient, aromatic, calmative, cardiac stimulant, carminative, digestive, diuretic, deobstruent, emmenagogue, expectorant, galactagogue, phytoestrogenic, refrigerant, stomachic and stimulant. They are considered useful in diseases of the chest, liver, spleen and kidney. They are credited with an action similar to the female hormone oestrogen. Both Hippocrates and Dioscorides recommended Fennel to increase breast-milk flow in nursing mothers and can ease colic in babies. Fennel is believed to exert an estrogenic effect upon the breast tissue. This action stimulates the healthy growth of breast tissue. They also have a long standing reputation as an aid to weight loss and to longevity. It helps those wishing to loose weight by suppressing the appetite while stimulating the metabolism. Said to restore libido to the impotent and frigid. May have a positive effect on menopause and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Also removes foul breath.
Fennel(Saunf) is a perennial plant used as fennel benefits possessing linear leaves which are 2–15 cm in length. The fennel plant is short-lived and grown as annual widely in the Mediterranean and southern Europe. The dried seeds of saunf use in flavoring cuisine around the world.
The fennels leaves and seeds are rich in nutrients as 100g serving contains 30 calories, 414mg potassium, 52mg Sodium, 3.1g dietary fats, 1.2g protein, 7g carbohydrate, 0.2g total fat plus 20% Vitamin C, 2% Vitamin A, 4% Calcium, 4% Magnesium and 3% Iron.
Saunf has been used as herbal medicine which provides fennel benefits. Chewing fennel seeds produces nitrite content in saliva, which ultimately controls the blood pressure level. Additionally, a large amount of potassium in this herb is helpful to control heart rate as potassium is an essential component of body fluids and cells. Fennel is useful in reducing water retention and toxins as being a diuretic. The diaphoretic properties help to stimulate perspiration plus treats stinky mouth. Fennel’s dietary fibers ensure a smooth digestive system while prevention constipation, indigestion, and bloating. According to Ayurveda, this herb calms the nerves and clarifies mental functioning.
BENEFITS:
- The primary saunf uses is to relieve bloating, but they also settle stomach pain and stimulate the appetite and are diuretic and anti-inflammatory.
- The seeds help in the treatment of kidney stones.
- It is safe for children when taken at a low dose and, as an infusion or syrup, can be given for colic and painful teething in babies.
- The seeds have a long-standing reputation as an aid to weight loss and to longevity.
Recommended Dosage: Fruit : 5 to 7 g; Oil : 0.1 to 0.6 ml.
Contraindication: The fruit is contraindicated during pregnancy. The essential oil should never be used during pregnancy or given to infants or toddlers. Excessive use of fennel can bring the symptoms of nausea, chest pain, itchy skin, sun sensitivity, and a mild increase in menstrual flow.