If fennel consumption has not yet become a daily routine for you, it means there is a lot you need to know about this aromatic plant!

The fennel plant is one of the most beloved plant varieties among all age groups, with its pleasant scent and relaxing effect. This plant, which has a unique strong essence, finds its place in a wide range of uses, from tea to tonic, from spice to incense. Fennel, which is the first choice for breastfeeding mothers, those starting complementary feeding for their babies, those with sleep problems, and those experiencing various digestive issues, provides benefits to the body in different ways in addition to the solutions it offers in these areas. So, how about discovering all the features you're curious about to get to know this plant better from the very beginning?

1. WHAT IS FENNEL?

Fennel is an herbaceous and aromatic plant species belonging to the parsley family. Fennel, which is a plant with yellow flowers clustered in bunches, can grow spontaneously in rocky and arid areas. The aroma of fennel stands out for its similarity to anise and licorice. Fennel seeds and leaves are generally preferred as edible parts. However, in some regions, the stem and bulb (root) of fennel can also be used for dishes and salads.

2. WHERE DOES FENNEL GROW?

Fennel grows widely worldwide in;

• European countries,

• South Asia,

• North Africa,

• USA,

• Canada, and

• Australia, both in coastal and non-desert inland areas.

In Turkey, it is mostly found in the coastal regions of the Black Sea, Aegean, and Mediterranean. Commercial fennel cultivation is predominantly carried out in Burdur. Fennel, which can easily grow even on roadsides, especially in hilly and mountainous areas, is also known as an invasive species in some parts of the world due to its rapid spread. In addition to wild fennel species, there are also specially cultivated varieties (Florence fennel) as medicinal or garden plants.

2.1. HOW IS FENNEL HARVESTED?

Fennel, planted in spring, matures and reaches its most productive state in the autumn of the following year. When the fruits of the plant begin to turn brown, they can be harvested by hand or by cutting. Fennel planted in large areas is cut while fresh and green with binders or combine harvesters and left to dry. To preserve its high nutritional value, it is recommended to dry the leaves and seeds in the shade.

3. HOW IS FENNEL USED?

The root and stem of fennel can be chopped while fresh and used with its leaves in dishes and salads. These parts of the plant can be used as an auxiliary ingredient in olive oil dishes, or they can be prepared directly as a fennel dish. The flower, leaf, and seed parts are usually dried for long-term consumption.

3.1. HOW TO STORE FENNEL?

To consume fresh fennel root and stem, it needs to be cooked within 3-4 days or stored in the freezer. Dried fennel leaves, flowers, and seeds, like many other dried foods, can retain their nutritional value for a long time. However, for this, it is crucial to keep dried fennel away from moisture, high heat, and sunlight.

4. HOW IS DRIED FENNEL CONSUMED?

Dried fennel leaves and seeds are most commonly used in making fennel tea. While they can be used as a spice or sweetener in dishes and desserts, they are also preferred for marinating meat and vegetables. Additionally, fennel seeds can be chewed directly to provide a feeling of freshness in the mouth.

Editor's Note: You can also use fennel seeds that you buy ready for making tea for other purposes. You can grind the seeds and use them as a spice (a pinch per serving); in dessert recipes, you can use them to make syrup.

4.1. HOW TO BREW FENNEL TEA?

For making fennel tea, it is necessary to prefer the method of steeping in rested water instead of boiling. This way, the beneficial components in the plant can be preserved to a high degree.

• Boil one glass (200-250 milliliters) of water and let it rest until the steam subsides.

• Take two level teaspoons (2 grams) of fennel seeds and crush them. (If it's ready for consumption as tea, you may not need to do this step.)

• Add the crushed fennel seeds to the boiled and rested water. Steep for about 5 minutes with the lid closed to prevent the loss of essential oils.

• At the end of the steeping time, strain the tea and consume it - and if you wish, sweeten it with honey. (You can also use plain fennel tea prepared without additions as a skin toner.)

5. WHY SHOULD FENNEL BE USED?

Fennel, with its essential oils, offers a natural solution whose effect on digestion has been proven by scientific research. Another known characteristic of fennel is that it facilitates sleep by providing a relaxing effect with its pleasant essence. Its most well-known role is supporting milk production for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, fennel, due to its content of;

• Protein,

• Dietary fiber,

• Vitamins A, E, B, C,

• Antioxidants,

• Calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese minerals, etc.

Contributes in a versatile way to meeting the body's daily nutritional needs with various beneficial components.

6. WHAT IS THE CONSUMPTION AMOUNT OF FENNEL?

While fennel consumption as a food is ideally limited to two servings, as tea, it is recommended not to exceed 4 cups a day, varying from person to person.

So, how about a much more practical solution suggestion instead of measuring grams and counting cups? Then meet Balparmak Apitera Gest*! This honey and propolis mixture, formulated with fennel extract and other valuable digestion-friendly plants, provides safe use with its portion-controlled sachet. Thanks to its single-use packaging, it offers maximum hygienic and practical consumption.

*Not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, individuals with chronic diseases, or those using medication should consult their doctor before use.