Essential Oil – Fennel
All About Aromatherapy Oil Fennel
Fennel
Fennel, Sweet Essential Oil (Botanical name: Foeniculum vulgarae)
Sweet Fennel essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the crushed seeds. Bitter fennel oil is not used in aromatherapy. It is extracted from the whole fennel herb and/or crushed seeds.
Properties of Fennel Oil and its Effects
- Fennel oil has antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, mental stimulant, expectorant, diuretic, digestive, emmanagogue and carminative properties.
- This oil is clear in color and has a slightly spicy herb-like aroma, similar to aniseed.
- Since many years, fennel has been used in medicinal cures to provide strength and fortitude.
- Hormonal effects of fennel have health benefits particularly in women.
Uses of Fennel Oil
- Eat fennel seeds to get rid of gas and get relief from flatulence. It is also used to make gripe water.
- The hormonal effect of fennel relieves menstrual and menopausal problems in women. It also promotes lactation and enables smooth milk flow in nursing mothers.
- Fennel is also believed to help in reducing obesity.
- Add a few drops of fennel oil to almond oil. Use this as massage oil for the abdomen. This relieves nausea and vomiting.
- Relieves edema (fluid retention) when added to bath water.
- Inhale fennel oil neat from the bottle or in steam to relieve hiccoughs.
Ways to Use Fennel Oil
Bath
Steam Inhalation
Burner or Vaporizer
Body Massage Oil (Do skin test for sensitivity testing before use)
Fennel Oil Caution:
Eucalyptus oil should be avoided during early pregnancy. This oil should not be used during pre-conceptual care, post natal care, during labor and on babies. Avoid this oil on individuals suffering from epilepsy and high blood pressure.
Disclaimer: Always consult a qualified aromatherapist before you think of taking any oil internally. Use in moderation. It is possible that large doses of fennel oil would give side effects. The oil should be avoided on sensitive skin or very young children. Fennel oil should also be avoided by pregnant women or women on estrogen supplements. Avoid in people with cancer, uterine or ovarian growths. Never use any oil without conducting a skin patch test for oil sensitivity or possible allergic reactions. Always seek guidance and verify safety before using any essential oil from a trained expert, regardless of what any website or book recommends.
