(Foeniculum vulgare)

This perennial herb has yellow flowers and is a close relative of dill.

Fennel can grow up to 6 feet tall and 18 inches wide. Grow Fennel in a sunny location in well-drained soil. Sow after last spring frost with about 10 inches between plants. The plant matures in about 90 days. Harvest the leaves and stems as needed before flowering and the seeds as they turn brown.

Take internally (tea, tincture) to relieve colic, flatulence, gas, abdominal pain, heartburn, indigestion, and for acid stomach. It also promotes the functioning of your kidneys, liver and spleen. Fennel seeds may help reduce alcohol's effects. Apply externally (essential oil) for hiccoughs and kidney stones.

You can add Fennel in sauces, stews, soups, and salads and as a garnish for fish. To make fennel tea, boil one cup of water with 2 grams of crushed seeds for 15 minutes. Keep the pot covered. Let it cool and strain. Parts

used: Bulbs, seeds, stalks.

Don't use if you are pregnant. Don't take if you have liver disease or epilepsy.