Dried fennel is known as the dried form of the seeds of the Fennel plant. Fennel plant comes from the Apiaceae family and generally grows in the Mediterranean region. It is both a culinary spice and a plant used for medicinal purposes.
Dried fennel seeds are usually oval or round in shape, greenish brown in color and have a characteristic odor. Dried fennel seeds have a sweet, slightly bitter and anise-like aroma.
In the kitchen, dried fennel seeds are used to flavor a variety of dishes, breads, buns, salads, soups and pickles. It can also be used to make liqueurs and some beverages.
Medicinally, dried fennel seeds may have digestive soothing properties. It can help relieve digestive problems such as gas and abdominal pain. It can also be used to increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using dried fennel for medicinal use or in high doses, as side effects or drug interactions may occur in some cases.
