Fennel
Synonyms
. Saunf
. Foeniculum
. Fennel fruit
Biological Source
It consists of dried ripe fruits of the plant Foeniculum vulgare.
Family
Umbelliferae
Geographical Source
. It is widely cultivated in Romania, Russia, Germany, France, India, and Japan.
. In India, it is cultivated in Gujarat, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
Microscopic Characters
. Color - Green to yellowish brown
. Odor - Sweet aromatic
. Taste - Strongly aromatic
. Shape - Straight or slightly curved
Chemical Constituents
. Approx 3 to 7 percent volatile oil is present.
. The main chemical constituents of the volatile oil are Fenchone (20%) and Anethole (50%).
. Other chemical constituents are Phellandrene, Limonene, Ketone, Phenolic-ether, and Methyl chavicol.
. Fencone is colorless and has a pungent nature. On the other hand, anethole has a sweet nature.
Uses
. It is used as an aromatic, carminative, stimulant, and flavoring agent.
. It is also used in mouth preparation and dental preparation.
. It is also used as an expectorant.