Fennel Tea

Arguably most famous for its weight loss capabilities, Fennel Tea has rapidly increased in popularity in the last few years alone. In fact, herbal tea connoisseurs and fitness fanatics alike have only recently swarmed to this intriguing brew following numerous scientific studies uncovering its true potential when it comes to dropping those pesky pounds. Yet it can offer so much more.

When consumed as part of a healthy and active lifestyle, Fennel Tea can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, and even provide relief from menstrual discomfort, just to name a few! If that wasn’t enough, this beverage is as delicious as it is beneficial! It has been commonly mistaken for aniseed owing to its liquorice-like aroma. Its flavour, meanwhile, is easily recognised by its subtle herbaceous flavour with sweet undertones.   

Fennel (botanically known as Foeniculum vulgare) actually belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae). It is a hardy, perennial herb, almost celery-like in overall appearance. It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but has since been found flourishing in many different parts of the world, such as Asia, Australia, Canada, and the United States. In particular, the fennel plant can thrive in areas with dry soils near coasts and riverbanks. Some of the first records of the fennel plant date back to Ancient Rome.

The world-renowned physician, botanist, and author, Pliny the Elder (23-79 CE) believed that serpents ate and rubbed against fennel to improve their eyesight (alas, there is evidence to support its use for eye health in humans today). Pliny likewise recognised fennel’s ability to treat at least 22 ailments, according to his fascinating works.

Fennel was once also recognised as one of the ‘Nine Holy Herbs’ by the Anglo-Saxons. This was alongside Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), Plantain (Plantago major), Watercress (Nasturtium officinalis), Camomile (Anthemis nobilis), Nettle (Urtica dioica), Crab Apple (Pyrus malus), and Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium). In the 12th Century, it is known that this nourishing herb was a staple in the household of the English King Edward I. A century later, one publication of the time, known as The Book of physicians of myddfai, asserted that “He who sees fennel and gather it not, is not a man but a devil”. During the 19th Century, acclaimed American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) wrote the poem The Goblet of Life. An extract of that poem reads:

Over the course of thousands of years, fennel has remained highly revered in a multitude of societies around the world. From its use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to its addition to many culinary dishes, fennel has served many purposes for centuries including, of course, tea! Modern science has since extensively researched this herb and discovered that many of the age-old remedies fennel were once used for still apply to this day! To find out more information on how Fennel Tea can improve your everyday way of life, please see our Health Benefits section below.

Type of Tea: Herbal Tea.

Ingredients: Dried Fennel Stems.

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water and infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.

How to Serve: Lemon or honey may both be considered for this brew, although The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company recommend it best served as it is.

Tasting Notes: Fennel Tea is a truly delicate infusion. It is warm and nourishing with every sip; boasting a smooth, slightly sweet flavour and a refreshing aftertaste. It is guaranteed to cleanse your palate as much as your body.  

Colour in Cup: Pale yellow liquor, light in tone.

Benefits of Fennel: Rich in Vitamins A, B-complex, C, and D, as well as calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, sodium, sulphur, and zinc. These are just to name a few! This herbal tisane is known to stimulate the production of estrogen in women and is an excellent choice of beverage for anyone suffering from menstrual cramps or symptoms associated with menopause.

Furthermore, its frequent consumption can also offer carminative properties, which in turn, can treat flatulence, diarrhea, bloating, and stomach cramps. If that wasn’t enough, a 2003 study published in ‘Alternative Therapies’ saw fennel extract eliminate colic in infants by up to 65%. However, the Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company urge consultation with a medical professional before using Fennel Tea for this purpose.

You can also tead more about this tea on our What is Fennel Tea Article.