3. Fennel Seeds
Herbal medicine recognizes fennel seeds as a potent carminative, a group of herbs that assist the GI tract with expelling gas. Fennel, scientifically known as Foeniculum vulgare, is native to India. Locals use the seeds as a digestive aid and have done so for thousands of years. A few seeds are chewed after meals to freshen the breath and improve digestion.
Modern nutritional science shows convincing research on the plant-based antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of fennel seeds. The seeds are rich in volatile oil content that contains the compounds fenchone, estragole, and anethole which have antispasmodic properties helpful in relieving abdominal bloating and stomach gas.
It’s important to note that consuming fennel does not come without a health risk. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid eating fennel seeds. As a further precaution, women that are currently receiving treatment for hormone disorders such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and uterine, ovarian, or breast cancer must avoid consuming fennel seeds completely.