FENNEL
Botanical name: Foeniculum vulgare (synonymous with F. officinale, F. capillaceum, Anethum foeniculum)

Also Known As (AKA):  Fenkel, Sweet Fennel

Therapeutic Benefit - Mind:  Fennel is clarifying and restoring. It dispels fear and boosts confidence.

Therapeutic Benefit - Body:  Fennel is antispasmodic. It is a tonic to liver, kidneys and spleen. Fennel decreases appetite and aids digestion. It is good for menopause, wrinkles, gout, obesity, and abdominal pain. Fennel is also an expectorant and hormone balancer.

Therapeutic Benefit - Spirit:  Fennel is used in purification ceremonies.

Application Method:  Dilute 10 drops in 1 oz carrier oil, massage oil, or lotion and apply to skin or bath. Use 4 drops in 2 cups of hot water for a steam.

Action Word:  Cleansing

Color Energy:  Mauve - Regulating

Fragrance:  Licorice-like, spicy, woodsy, sweet, herbaceous

Note:  Top-Middle Note

Color of Oil:  Clear to light yellow

Major Chemical Constituents:  limonene, trans-anethole

Common Adulterants:  Star anise oil, bitter fennel oil

Blends well with:  Basil, Clary Sage, Cypress, Geranium, Grapefruit, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Orange, Rose, Rosemary, Sage, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

Botany:  A perennial herb that grows up to 8 feet. The fruit is a dry seed from which the essential oil is distilled.

History:  Grown throughout Europe and has been known in the Mediterranean area for years especially in Greece.

Warnings:  Avoid during pregnancy and if epileptic. Toxic in high concentrations.