Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (2023)

Although fennel oil smells similar to fennel seeds or star anise, it's actually more related to carrots and celery.

Also known as fennel (but not to be confused with star anise), the licorice flavor of fennel essential oil can be a bit controversial.

Despite its weird smell, fennel has been used for thousands of years by many ancient societies and is even mentioned in the Bible.

Today, fennel oil is perhaps most commonly used for its powerful healing and calming properties, although it also has some lesser-known benefits, especially for menopausal women.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (1)

What is Fennel Essential Oil?

Fennel essential oil is extracted from the seeds of the fennel plant native to Egypt and is often compared to fennel or star anise for its licorice scent and unique name. However, it is more closely related to parsley or celery.

Warm, sweet and slightly spicy, fennel essential oil is an excellent top note for refining blends with other ingredientsspicy smell, and moreEarthy.

Fennel is also known by its botanical nameaniseUsually clear in color and thin in consistency.

Fennel vs Star Anise

Despite their similar names and smells,Star anise and star anise come from two completely different plants.

Star anise is also slightly sweeter in fragrance, although the two oils have very similar physical and mental benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Fennel Essential Oil?

Fennel is traditionally used as a culinary spice and to flavor toothpaste. It is a powerful motor for many bodily functions, and has recently been valued for its powerful mental properties as well.

Some of the best benefits of fennel essential oil include:

  • Ability to enhance bad mood
  • Antibacterial and Antifungal
  • anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Relief During Menopause

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (2)

Using star anise essential oil can help relieve bad mood

Evidence suggests that aniseed can act as a potent mood enhancer for extreme mood disorders.

A 2016 study found that the oil had powerful restorative effects in animals, and further research in 2016 found similar effects in humans.

These studies found that fennel significantly reduced symptoms of mild to moderate depression in subjects, improved their mental status, and increased motivation.

A bad mood can affect many things, from our productivity to our relationships. Diffusing fennel oil is a great way to banish bad moods and inspire joy.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (3)

Is Fennel Oil Antibacterial and Antifungal?

A 2005 study found anise to be effective against a variety of fungal and yeast strains, and research suggests that anise oil may even be effective against dermatophytes — a type of fungus that can cause skin diseases.

For this, add a few drops of fennel oilcarrier oilAs a first step in the home treatment of fungal infections.

Further studies have shown that star anise also has significant antibacterial effects.

A 2015 study found that anethole, a compound in anise, was so powerful at inhibiting bacterial growth that it was able to successfully block the strain that causes cholera.

Some sources indicate that fennel may have wound-healing properties, which it attributes to its powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Treating minor cuts, scrapes, or bruises with this oil can be an effective remedy.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (4)

Is Fennel Essential Oil Anti-Inflammatory?

Fennel oil can be effective in treating muscle soreness and inflammation caused by physical injury or infection.

A 2006 animal study found that fennel oil reduced swelling and associated pain with analgesic effects comparable to aspirin and other common pain relievers.

A 2012 review also found that fennel oil is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants have many beneficial effects on the body by significantly inhibiting the activity of free radicals and preventing oxidative damage.

Antioxidants can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which can prevent some serious health problems.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (5)

Can Fennel Oil Ease Menopause Symptoms?

Menopause can cause many uncomfortable symptoms in older women due to the natural drop in hormones.

Fennel is thought to mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, which in turn may help relieve common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, dry skin, and fatigue.

This was backed up by a 2012 study, which found that fennel oil reduced the severity and frequency of hot flashes by 75 percent.

Diffusing fennel oil can help relieve uncomfortable menopausal symptoms.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (6)

How to use fennel essential oil

aromatherapy

While the smell of aniseed is debatable—depending on whether you like the smell of licorice—spreading it around your home can still have a major impact on your mental health.

Fennel is said to have sedative properties that help reduce stress and eliminate negative emotions, promote healthier sleep and a relaxing environment, and increase motivation.

bad

As an alternative to aromatherapy, you can also add a few drops of fennel essential oil to your bath.

The smell of the oil can help calm your mind and relieve muscle or joint pain caused by inflammation.

massage

Another way to take advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of fennel oil is with a relaxing massage.

mix oil with moisturizercarrier oilGreat for treating inflammation and even effective against menopausal symptoms when rubbed on the temples or lower abdomen.

skin care

Thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, anise oil works as a powerful facial cleanser — helping to unclog bacteria pores and prevent infection.

This oil can also be used to clean minor cuts or scrapes. However, avoid applying it directly to open wounds.

Diluted essential oils are always recommendedcarrier oilAnd do a patch test before use.

clean

Mixing aniseed with water and an emulsifier like dish soap can help keep surfaces clean and healthy, as the oil kills harmful bacteria.

Use as part of your daily cleaning routine, or spray on from time to time for extra protection to surfaces.

Candle and Soap Making

Fennel essential oil can provide a particularly prominent top note in fragrances and is an ideal addition to soaps and candles when you want to intensify the scent.

We recommend following tested recipes or try some of oursBeginner's GuideIf you are new to making soaps and candles.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (7)

History of Fennel Essential Oil

Cultivated by the ancient Egyptians as a medicine and culinary spice, star anise is often considered a "brain picker" for its rejuvenating properties.

It was also popular in ancient Greek and Roman medicine, and was hailed as a mood lifter by many of its leading figures.

In fact, fennel was once so valuable that it was used as currency and to scent clothes in the 15th centuryDaycentury.

Fennel Essential Oil: History, Uses & Benefits (8)

    Like the sweetness it brings to us, the licorice scent of anise essential oil can be pleasant.

    Furthermore, its soothing and healing properties relieve various types of ailments and contribute to our health and well-being.

    Shop Our Fennel Essential Oilhere.

    product name

    100% Pure Fennel Essential Oil
    botanical nameanise
    Fragrancespices
    Advantages and possible usesAntibacterial, antifungal, helps relieve hot flashes
    For diffusers?Yes, this fennel essential oil is perfect for a diffuser.
    Is it suitable for candles and soaps?Yes, this fennel essential oil is great for candles and soaps.
    Extraction Methodsteam distillation
    bottle typeTamper and UV resistant
    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Edmund Hettinger DC

    Last Updated: 2023/05/06

    Views: 6074

    Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

    Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Edmund Hettinger DC

    Birthday: 1994-08-17

    Address: 2033 Gerhold Pine, Port Jocelyn, VA 12101-5654

    Phone: +8524399971620

    Job: Central Manufacturing Supervisor

    Hobby: Jogging, Metalworking, Tai chi, Shopping, Puzzles, Rock climbing, Crocheting

    Introduction: My name is Edmund Hettinger DC, I am a adventurous, colorful, gifted, determined, precious, open, colorful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.