Fenchel / Fennel / Foeniculum vulgare

Exalted by the Greeks, Fennel was mentioned in myths that saw the Greek Titan, Prometheus encase fire within the bulb of a Fennel plant. Native tot he Mediterranean Basin, the popularity of the herb lead to the plant being naturalized in many locations, specifically in areas with dry soil near natural sources of water.

A staple in the royal gardens of King Edward l. of England, the benefits of Fennel proliferated as many believed that the plant possessed the power to suppress the appetite and keep away evil spirits. In addition tot he folkloric properties attributed tot he plant, many kitchens incorporated the herb as a flavorful addition to a variety of dishes.

Nowadays the plant is used as an effective caminative and was discovered to reduce inflammation, provide a natural source of estrogen, improve immunity response to infection, and reduce elecated chloesterol level.

While Fennel no longer hilds the medical reputation it had in the Classical and Middle Ages, the plant is still heavily used in culinary practices and herbal remedies and is available in every supermarket over the world.