Native to the Mediterranean region but now growing wild throughout the world, milk thistle grows about 5-10 feet tall. Milk thistle leaf is wide and spiny but when de-spined, it can be eaten and may be used as a substitute for spinach. When crushed, both the leaves and stems give a milky white fluid, thus the herb’s name.

The herb milk thistle (Silybum mariamum) belongs to the Compositae/Asteraceae family. The milk thistle leaves and the fruits, which are erroneously referred as seeds, are commonly used for medicinal purposes. However, if we look at milk thistle in herbal literature, the most common reference is to the silymarin that is found in the fruits.

The milk thistle fruits contain flavonolignans, also known as silymarin. Silymarin is a plant compound containing about 50% silbinin, silicristin, silidianin and silimonin as well as silandrin, isosilichristin, silhermin, isosilibinin, 2,3-dehydrosilibinin, neosilihermins A and B and tri- to pentamers of silibinin. There is extensive scientific proof that supports the use of milk thistle seed extracts or silymarin as a medicinal herb specifically beneficial as a hepatoprotective agent. However, there is little information on the leaf’s medicinal benefits. It is because the aerial parts of milk thistle (leaves) are less studied even despite the fact that the plant has had a long history of use (one extending throughout centuries) in the treatment of liver, gallbladder and spleen disorders, and has even been used as an antimalarial agent. Based on other studies, the milk thistle leaf extracts acts as emmenagogues, which are herbs that stimulate blood flow in the uterus and pelvic area and encourage menstruation.

Only a few products containing leaf extracts from milk thistle are available nowadays despite some evidence claiming milk thistle herb having some remarkable medicinal properties. For instance, a recent study reports that extracts from the aerial parts of milk thistle may adjust estrogen receptors. Data shows that the phytochemical profiles of the herbs change considerably as the plant grows to its adult state. Preliminary tests on biological activity of the aerial parts demonstrate a correlation between its toxicity data and antioxidant activity and the developmental stage. Put together, the data reinforces the importance of harvesting milk thistle during the right developmental stage to get the best material with high phytochemical quality. These preliminary tests support some of the claims on the medicinal functions of milk thistle leaf. But of course, additional research will be needed to further distinguish these activities.

There are various ways to use milk thistle leaf for medicinal and cooking purposes. Crushing the leaves, roots and stems can be used to ease liver congestion and counteract the effect of alcohol. Eating tender leaves in vegetable salad can also treat hair loss. It is useful in the treatment of baldness, preventing seborrhea, dandruff and dry hair. In food, the plant can be fried given that the spines are cut off with scissors. It can also be eaten raw in salads and as a substitute for spinach. It can be boiled as well together with roots, which is very useful for the liver. The best time to collect leaves and fruits is during spring season because they shall be fresh.

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Also known as the Damiana aphrodisiac, Damiana liqueur is an alcoholic drink made from the roots and leaves of Turnera diffusa, better known as Damiana. This alcoholic beverage has a distinct sweet and light flavor, with a unique aromatic smell. The beverage can be easily recognized because it is packed in a glass bottle shaped like a pregnant woman, intended to symbolize the Incan goddess of fertility. Today, the liqueur is also a popular ingredient in different cocktail recipes and vodka drinks.

The origin of Damiana liqueur is believed to date all the way back to the ancient Mayan civilization. The roots and leaves of the flowering Damiana were dried and dipped in an alcohol-based fluid to age. This is considered the earliest version of the liqueur. As time passed, modern manufacturers improved this primitive beverage by adding sugar, vanilla, honey and different flavorings to make it palatable, and hence, it started to be marketed on its own. Today, most brands of the liqueur still possess that distinct aromatic smell of the Damiana, making it unique from other beverages.

There are also popular legends about the Damiana liqueur. In ancient times, the Guaycura Indians created this beverage from Damiana herb, which is a perennial plant in the desert of Southern Baja California, Mexico. The tribe drank this liqueur for centuries and based on ancient legend, its aphrodisiac power even caused the Indian chieftain to ban its consumption. Even today, the liqueur is still a popular present during wedding day. Oftentimes, as part of traditional Mexican wedding custom, the mother-in-law gives the bride Damiana beverage as a gift in the hopes of many fine grandchildren.

Most of the time, it is used as a mixing ingredient to make a variety of vodka recipe drinks. In traditional Mexican liqueur, Damiana was actually the original ingredient for margarita: this is before Triple Sec became the common combination of choice for tequila-based drinks. A certain region in Mexico, particularly in Los Cabos, still uses the original version of margarita. It can also be drunk purely and be served in shot-glass style.

Making homemade Damiana liqueur is simple. You can start by steeping the leaves in whiskey and then in water. Strain the mixture and the resulting liquid is mixed with honey. Before placing in a bottle, several ingredients such as citrus extracts, berries and other aromatic ingredients can be mixed as well to produce a distinct blend. Leave it to age for several weeks or months. Making this beverage can be demanding and time-consuming, yet truly rewarding later on.

One of the main reasons this liqueur remains popular is because of its wide range of health benefits. Known to have an aphrodisiac effect when ingested, Damiana is a known herb harvested for its libido-enhancing properties. It is also used to treat other illnesses including depression, anxiety, nausea, asthma, indigestion, constipation, frigidity in women, menstrual irregularities, and erectile dysfunction. Although Damiana liqueur contains a smaller amount of herb than what the supplements possess, many people still claim to gain equal health benefits from the beverage.

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Milk thistle is believed to be generally safe for everyone. For centuries, it has been used by health care providers who have focused on the medicinal properties of milk thistle in treating ailments affecting the digestive system, liver and gallbladder. Within this long period of usage, there have been no reports of any significant adverse reactions to this herb. It also has very low toxicity, which makes it a recommended herbal medicine for liver health. Being a detoxifying herb, several initial side effects such as nausea, mild diarrhea, skin rashes or headache may occur, but these effects of milk thistle will soon pass.

Healthy children are less likely to take milk thistle regularly since they don’t suffer liver damage from harmful toxins such as alcohol. However, when used as preventive support for other treatments, taking milk thistle could lead to many beneficial effects. If taken together with medications for infection, chronic illness or allergy, it will provide liver protection against toxic build-up. It can also boost the immune system and maintain healthy function of vital organs such as the liver, bowels and kidney. Milk thistle can also help in promoting clear skin conditions for adolescents suffering from acne. Children undergoing chemotherapy for cancer have experienced the positive effects of milk thistle in strengthening and protecting liver function. The recommended dose for children depends on their weight. Oftentimes, the recommended adult dose is 420 mg. Therefore, if the child weighs 20 -25 kg, the suggested dose of milk thistle would be 140 mg per day, or 1/3 of the adult dose.

Currently, there is little evidence to support whether milk thistle is safe or unsafe for pregnant women. Side effects of milk thistle are rare and it is better to take extra caution if you want to detoxify during your pregnancy. Milk thistle contains certain compounds that are similar to the hormone estrogen. Generally, herbal supplements and other substances that could possibly affect the endocrine system must be avoided during pregnancy, but there are still exceptions to the rule. As such, it is perhaps a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before taking any sort of supplement, including milk thistle. Although scientifically unproven, there are possible dangers of taking milk thistle during pregnancy. In theory, due to its hormonal effect, it may lead to changes in the fetus’s developing reproductive organs and endocrine system. To add to that, it may also stimulate premature contractions, leading to preterm labor or miscarriage.

There are many herbs that can be taken for a healthy liver and milk thistle tops this list. Indeed, milk thistle can effectively help in treating health problems especially to the elderly in promoting smooth function of the vital organs. The liver-detoxifying effects of milk thistle lessen the risk of liver damage and malfunction as well the debilitating and sometimes painful medical conditions that may arise from liver failure. The herb helps in stimulating the bowels and kidney into functioning better and improves blood circulation. Hence, it may improve motor function and memory. In turn, these health benefits can uplift the quality of life of the elderly.

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The effects of Damiana herb varies on different people. Some don’t experience the side effects even with consumption of high dosage while others do. To determine the effect of the herb, you have to try it yourself, but only under the supervision of a herbalist. According to studies, the herb Damiana takes effect on the body in a more beneficial way when taken together with a variety of other herbs, which only a herbal expert can explain. There are numerous positive Damiana effects. Besides being a libido enhancer, it is also noted as nerve tonic, colon cleanser, and urinary astringent as well as an herb for causing a euphoric feeling in the taker.

Natural libido enhancers and aphrodisiac foods are taken by both men and women throughout the world to help them overcome their problems regarding sexual matters. Truly, there are certain foods and herbs that are useful in bringing back sexual function and potency for men and women.

Being a natural aphrodisiac, one of the effects of Damiana herb is that it stimulates the muscle contraction of the intestine, causing an increase in blood and oxygen supply to the genital area. It can also treat frigidity in women. It is known to enhance libido. Hence, it promotes sexual power in both men and women. On top of that, the plant causes positive effects in the functions of reproductive system. Damiana’s active components have vasodilator-like qualities, which may answer its effectiveness in relieving impotence, providing stable and hard penile erection.

Apart from its aphrodisiac property, there are still a wide range of other Damiana effects. First, it can be used as a general tonic that can boost the immune system, strengthen the body and rejuvenate a person to maximum energy and strength. The herb can also be used by women during menopausal times. The herb is known to regulate normal hormonal level and control hot flushes.

Popular as an effective natural antidepressant, it is one of the herbs for anxiety and depression. Damiana herb is technically known to have thymoleptic properties – that is, it possesses a stimulating and mood enhancing action in both body and mind of the person. This herbal remedy is typically prescribed as treatment for people with mild to moderate depression, and also for those affected by chronic nervous exhaustion. Affected persons can benefit a lot from the plant’s restorative and stimulatory properties, which explains why the plant is deemed extremely useful in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. The herb extract is also known as a nervous system tonic. In addition, it shows positive results in the treatment of mood disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, neurosis, hypochondria, paranoia, etc.

Different preparations can be created from Damiana leaves, either in the form of infusions or even as rolled-up “cigarettes”, which can induce that so-called Damiana high. The herb, when smoked, can cause a relaxed state of mind and a subtle hint of “high” with sexual overtones. The effect is quite similar to the effects induced by smoking cannabis.

The effects of Damiana herb are a wide range of health benefits. There’s no doubt Damiana herb is a valuable gift from nature. If only more researches and studies are done on it soon, Damiana can start to be widely used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases and illnesses.

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Acute viral hepatitis is a type of systemic infection that principally affects the liver. Majority of the cases of viral hepatitis could be one of the five major viral agents, namely Hepatitis A virus, Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis C virus, Hepatitis D or the HBV-associated delta agent and Hepatitis E virus. All these known human hepatitis viruses manifest clinically similar signs and symptoms. Although this type of hepatitis is usually self-limiting, healthcare providers recommend drugs and other measures to treat the symptoms. Today, more and more people rely on milk thistle for acute viral hepatitis treatment.

The hepatitis transmission route may vary depending on the type of hepatitis infection. To better understand how to effectively treat your condition, you have to examine the different modes of transmission for hepatitis. Hepatitis A, E and possibly F are transmitted via enteric, that is by digestive or fecal routes, due to poor hygiene or environmental sanitation. Hepatitis B, C, D and possibly G are transmitted via parenteral routes. Parenteral transmissions include blood-to-blood contact, contact with infected body fluids (sweat, saliva, and blood), tattooing and body piercing and intravenous drug use. Diagnostic hepatitis test is a blood test used to search for markers of hepatitis. There are different types of hepatitis blood tests. Some look for antibodies while other tests search for genetic material (DNA/RNA) or antigens.

The use of milk thistle for acute viral hepatitis has been studied extensively. Although the mechanism or action of silymarin found in milk thistle is not completely understood, there are varieties of mechanisms proposed. Silymarin is reported to strengthen hepatocyte membrane structure. As such, it prevents the entry of harmful substances and toxins through enterohepatic recirculation. It promotes regeneration of liver cells by increasing synthesis of protein ribosomes and stimulating nucleolar polymerase.

In addition, because of the oxidative stress occurring in acute hepatitis C infection, which results from altered mitochondrial function, it could be expected that antioxidant therapy is beneficial for hepatitis C patients. Being an antioxidant, silymarin could benefit people with hepatitis B or C with its iron-binding properties, recognized hepatocyte-membrane strengthening abilities and cell regeneration promoting function.

To further support the effectiveness of milk thistle for acute viral hepatitis, several randomized controlled trials (RCT) were conducted. For instance, a 21-day study of 57 patients diagnosed with acute hepatitis A or B were given 420 mg of silymarin and placebo per day found that more patients achieved normal bilirubin and AST results with milk thistle therapy after 3 weeks of treatments. In another study, 105 patients with acute hepatitis taking silymarin, 420 mg per day showed slight improvement in certain symptoms compared to the group taking placebo for four weeks.

Treatment using milk thistle for acute viral hepatitis seems to be well tolerated and safe. There is no recorded reduction in mortality. However, the herbal remedy has not been proven to be effective in treating chronic hepatitis. Based from its functions and the studies conducted, the herb doesn’t appear to reduce the level of virus infection in the body but may help a lot in protecting the liver from damage, hence improving the general condition and alleviating symptoms.

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Damiana grows naturally throughout Mexico and in the Southwest areas of the United States. For hundreds of years, the Aztecs and Mayans used Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac, commonly taken in the form of liqueur or tea. It is believed that a certain chemical component in Damiana acts directly to increase sexual desire and even increases the intensity of sensations felt during sexual contact. With this, it is one of the few natural substances that have been recognized to directly enhance sexual prowess in both men and women.

Damiana leaves have been known to possess interesting aphrodisiac properties. Studies on its composition have found out that the main chemical components of the leaves are volatile oil, arbutin, tannin, gonzalitosin, flavonoids and damianin. Apart from that, it also contains essential oil, thymol, cyanogenic glycosides and trace amounts of phosphorus. Although the specific chemical component that is responsible for its libido-enhancing property has not been identified, research has discovered that taking Damiana works to slow down digestive tracts, thereby increasing oxygen supply to the genital areas. These two factors make it an ideal impotence herb for men with erectile dysfunction as it helps men achieve erection easily and maintain it for a longer period. Using Damiana as a female labido enhancer, women can experience a shorter time self-lubricating and attaining orgasm during sexual intercourse. Another study claims that using Damiana results to increased insensitivity in the erotic zones such as the genitals, which in turn may lead to greater sexual pleasure.

Apart from using Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac, the use of Damiana leaves can also contribute to other health benefits that may indirectly assist in maintaining optimum functioning of sex organs. It is used as a general tonic for ages to treat nervous disorders because it is thought to promote a toning effect on the body. Together with this, the leaves are also used to reduce sleepiness and boost energy level. These factors are important in achieving a satisfying sexual experience.

The leaves of Damiana are best used as an aphrodisiac and are commonly taken in the form of infusions or liqueur. You can also take Damiana impotence supplements since it still contains the same therapeutic properties. Some herbalists claim that combining Damiana leaves and Saw Palmetto berries in an infusion can be more effective in enhancing sexual desire. The tea must be taken one hour prior to sexual activity. Since the effect of Damiana is not immediate, it should be continuously taken for two weeks at one cup per day for sustained benefits. Nowadays, one can buy Damiana from different trustworthy health food shops or herbal remedy stores. However, for those living in a place where such stores are not present, the best option is to purchase it from online stores. Just be careful and check the reputation of the seller since it is very easy to fake herbal products, for which sales are not closely regulated.

It is important to note that using Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac should be used in moderation over a certain period. In fact, because people have varied natures of metabolism, some may barely experience any noticeable result using the herb while others may find the plant too potent. This is the reason why Damiana should be taken in moderation and under the guidance of a qualified herbalist.

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One of the popular herbs that are worth considering for health is milk thistle extract. Studies claim that this plant has promise in the treatment of certain forms of cancer. It is even loaded with more antioxidants than the usual vitamins like Vitamin E. The extract is taken from the seeds of dried milk thistle flowers.

The traditional extract that comes from the seeds contains about 4 -6% of silymarin. The extract is composed of approximately 65 – 80% silymarin, which is a flavolignan complex, and 20 – 35% fatty acids. Silymarin is compound of polyphenolic molecules that include seven related flavonolignans (silybin B, silybin A, silychristin, silydianin, isosilybin B, isosilybin A and isosilychristin) and a flavonoid taxifolin. Based on clinical trials, silymarin has been given in doses ranging from 420 to 480 mg per day in divided doses, 2 -3 times per day. But, a larger amount such as 600 mg daily has been given for those with type II Diabetes and doses of 600 – 1200 mg per day have been recommended for patients with chronic Hepatitis C infection.

Milk thistle extract has been popular in the treatment of different liver conditions. It is thought to detoxify, cleanse, strengthen and energize a slow-functioning liver. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body and is responsible in assisting digestion by secreting bile, breaking down toxic substances, storing substances like iron, vitamin B12, copper and glycogen and producing protein that regulate blood clotting. Indeed, there’s no other organ that can replace the function of the liver, and that is why it is very important to keep it healthy and in optimum condition. However, the extract antagonizes the effect of Yohimbine when taken with that other substance. As such, it is recommended not to take them together and consult a doctor before taking silymarin extract.

Are you curious about how milk thistle extract works? Research shows that the extract tends to protect the liver by delaying the absorption rate so toxins are eliminated in the kidneys before they reach the liver. This is evident with Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning. Based on animal studies, the plant extract was found to counteract the damaging effect of the toxin completely when it is given 10 minutes after consuming the mushroom. When given after 24 hours of mushroom poisoning, the danger of liver damage and/or death was reduced greatly.

The liquid milk thistle extract is known for its demulcent property, and as such can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and acne. The extract seems to result in a dramatic reduction in dryness, redness and cracking as well as a healthy glow on skin. Because of its effect in improving the secretion of bile, it can be used as a mild laxative, which may aid constipation. While the health benefits of the extract for the liver have been proven over time, this herb also has other health benefits. Many studies on milk thistle are in the process, examining its effect on specific types of cancer, its potential ability to reduce cholesterol and its ability to protect the muscles of the heart.

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Damiana herb is a small perennial shrub commonly found in Central and South America. Reports from Spanish missionaries state that the Mexican Indians used Damiana tea to enhance their sexual prowess. As a supplement, it is used to treat various medical conditions, but many of its indications are purely from anecdotal evidences. It is popular as a natural libido-enhancer mainly for women, and in this area, there are several researches to back its efficacy. Based on evidence, it shows that the effects of this plant are not immediate. It usually takes four to six weeks of continuous use before you see any results.

Damiana herb can be administered in varied preparations, and this includes its use in herbal tea, in capsule form and in tinctures. Whichever preparation you try, make sure you check the dose instructions and do not take more than what is prescribed or more than one form. Going against this recommendation increases the risk of overdose, which may cause serious side effects. It is always better to consult a reliable herbalist before taking any Damiana herbal supplements. An expert herbalist can help you in supervising your herbal treatment progress and give you necessary information concerning your condition.

The Damiana tea is supposed to help enhance sexual stimulation, assist in soothing nerves and treat digestive and respiratory problems. However, these claims are only supported by anecdotal reports. In making Damiana herb tea, take two -four grams of dried Damiana leaves, crush them and add to a cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to steep for 15 – 30 minutes to avoid taking large amounts of Damiana, as it can cause stomach upset.

The tincture preparation of Damiana can either be bought or made at home. The recommended dose is ½ teaspoon taken one to three times a day. In making Damiana tincture yourself, soak the leaves in rum or vodka, approximately ½ liter of alcohol per ounce of leaves. Let it steep for five days and strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or coffee filter. Put the Damiana liquid aside and refrigerate. Steep the strained-out leaves using ¾ cup of water per ounce of leaves for the next five days. Again, strain the water mixture and discard the leaves. Bring to a boil the water mixture and add honey to have a bit of taste. Take the refrigerated Damiana liquid and combine with the honey-sweetened mixture.

Damiana capsules come in 400 mg to 800 mg formulation, which can be taken one to three times per day. Take it with a full glass of water. Make sure that the supplement you bought contains homogenous extract of pure Damiana. This is because certain brands contain additives and fillers, which can make it low-priced yet less effective. Most products combine Damiana with other herbs so take note of this formula combination as well.

Similar to other herbal supplements, Damiana herb is not closely regulated by FDA, and thus there is always a potential risk that the supplement, tea or tincture you are taking is not pure, has been labeled incorrectly with the prescribed dose, or is contaminated. Always use caution when taking Damiana or any herbal supplements.

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Many medicinal herbal remedies have a reputation for alleviating symptoms of different illnesses. And usually, traditional herbal medicines are often taken to treat the body holistically rather than to treat individual symptoms, formulated to reinforce the body’s natural healing mechanism. One popular herb of this type today is milk thistle. What is milk thistle? Also known as Mary thistle, holy thistle and even sylymarin, this herb has a strong reputation of detoxifying the liver. However, little is known about its other health benefits.

Milk thistle is native to the Mediterranean region but is now growing throughout the world. It favors dry and sunny areas with spiny stems, reaching height of 4 -10 feet. It belongs to the family of Compositae with wide, shiny green leaves, which have white streaks along the leaf veins. Milk thistle got its name from the milky fluid extracted from the leaves when crushed. The flowers are large and globular, purple in color and endowed with spines. Similar to other thistle species, the seed also has a bunch of white hair. The seed contains most of the medicinal properties of the plant, characterized by its glossy, brownish spots. Milk thistle matures and spreads quickly and is regarded as a noxious weed in many parts of the world. However, it is widely cultivated in Europe for its herbal extracts.

When it comes to information on milk thistle, there is a little more data than on most other herbs: over 300 researches have been conducted to study the medicinal properties of this plant. According to these studies, the active ingredient of milk thistle, which is responsible in protecting the liver, is silymarin. Silymarin belongs to a group of flavonoids, including silidianin, silibinin and silicristin, which are believed to help in repairing liver cells damaged by alcohol and other toxic substances. Apart from its liver benefits, silymarin is a strong antioxidant.

What is Milk Thistle and its Benefits

There are numerous health benefits in milk thistle, but it is commonly used for protecting the body’s liver. It could even be called as the liver’s best friend. The plant isn’t only used to protect the liver but also has a healing power. It benefits the liver by maintaining it in its best shape. Other health benefits of milk thistle are its antioxidant property (protecting the body from free radicals at cellular level), stimulation of bile flow, ability to raise glutathione level and a promising anti-cancer property. The most important health benefit of milk thistle is its effectiveness in preventing alcohol-related diseases such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, liver damage and all forms of liver toxicity.

What is Milk Thistle and its Specific Medicinal Part

Many people can confuse milk thistle with holy thistle due to the similarity of their names. In fact, holy or blessed thistle is a different specie scientifically called Cnicus benedictus. Milk thistle owes its reputed medicinal property from its seeds. However, confusion arises as to the real part of milk thistle that is used for health purposes. Actually, the main therapeutic parts of milk thistle are the tiny, firm fruits supposedly called as achenes. Achenes are the substance left after the fluffy pappus or thicket is removed. A lot of herbal literature mistakenly refers them as seeds. Although it appears to be similar to seeds, they are in fact fruits with firm coatings.

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There are two known varieties of the plant fennel. The bulb variety is called Florence fennel or finocchio while the feathery plant is called fennel or sweet fennel. Sweet fennels, scientifically named Foeniculum vulgare, are most commonly known as fennel seeds. Fennel seeds are actually not really seeds but the fruit from the dried, dead flowers of the plant that looks exactly like a seed. Out of practice and habit, the fruit became known as “seeds”.

These seeds have many uses and benefits. Because of the plant’s aromatic characteristics, fennel stems, leaves and flowers and fruits are used as culinary herbs and spices. It is also used to treat indigestion and many other mild digestive disorders, which would be its most popular medicinal use.

HISTORY

Fennel’s first documented use was found in China dating from ancient times the Chinese still use it even now). The plant was also mentioned in practically all herbal medicine studies in Europe from hundreds of years ago to this day. Native to the Mediterranean, it was introduced to Europe by Imperial Rome and its use spread quickly throughout Greece. Fennel was one of the nine holy herbs of Anglo-Saxons and in the First Century A.D., Pliny attributed 22 healing wonders in fennel.

It was used to treat menstrual cramps in the old days and to relieve women of the symptoms of menopause. It was also thought to increase milk production, so women took it to improve their lactation while the men took it to get rid of digestive problems.

Today, fennel is reputed as an effective healing herb for many ailments. In fact, it was once an official drug in the United States used to treat digestive disorders. It is also classified by the FDA as GRAS or Generally Recognized As Safe, although there aren’t enough studies to prove that it has any health benefit as a food supplement.

HOW TO CONSUME FENNEL SEEDS

Commercially, fennels can come in several forms. There are health supplement fennels in capsules, pills and tablets. There are also fennel seed extracts like oil and tea that are available in the market. And because fennel seeds are widely grown already, you can also find them in the supermarkets and health stores if you do not want to grow them yourself.

You can use the seeds in your kitchen for virtually all kinds of food. You can mix fennel with your soup, stew it, sauté it or add it to your homemade sausage ingredients. Italian sausages are known to have fennels in them, and fennels are also often used in their pasta sauces.

To consume fennels as a tea, crush the seeds and heat them with water. About one teaspoon of crushed seeds is enough for a cup-full of water. It is recommended not to bring it to boil as boiling will rid it of its nutrients. Alternatively, you may also buy fennel extracts or even order them online and mix them with your food and include them in your food preparation. The seeds of fennel can also be chewed directly and raw as a mouth freshener after each meal.

Fennel seeds oil is also used as an aromatic massage oil. When combined with other therapeutic oils, it is rejuvenating and relaxing. Thus, with all the invigorating and cleansing effects of fennels, it is really no wonder that the plant once native to the Mediterranean region alone is now widely grown throughout the world.

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