Health & Life

“The Unassuming Garden Vegetable That’s a ‘Treasure’ for Healthy, Long Life”

This humble vegetable, commonly found across Vietnam, has been used as a precious medicinal herb for thousands of years. Uncover the surprising benefits it holds!

Administrator

9 August, 2024

The Amazing Benefits of Fennel

Fennel, a unique herb native to the Mediterranean coastal countries, offers a distinctive flavor profile akin to anise and licorice. Every part of the fennel plant, from its leaves to its stalks and bulbs, is edible and can be used in cooking.

Natural Sleep Aid

Fennel is more than just a culinary herb; it also possesses mild sedative properties that help alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting easier sleep. Research indicates that this herb can boost the production of melatonin, the natural sleep-regulating hormone, significantly improving sleep quality.

Effective Relief for Menstrual Cramps

Recent research from Iran reveals that fennel extract combined with vitamin E effectively reduces menstrual pain. In a study, this extract proved even more effective than painkillers in alleviating discomfort among participants.

Iranian research shows that fennel extract combined with vitamin E is superior in reducing menstrual pain.

Boosts Milk Production

Fennel contains compounds similar to estrogen, which can stimulate milk secretion in goats. Many researchers believe that women may experience similar effects. The use of fennel to enhance lactation has been practiced for centuries, and even today, many mothers choose fennel herbal tea to increase their milk supply.

Supports Respiratory Health

Gargling with fennel seed oil has been shown to loosen phlegm in the lungs and alleviate cough and sore throat, according to a study in Italy. Consult your doctor before trying this remedy to ensure its safety and effectiveness for you.

Strengthens Bone Health

Although fennel only contains a small amount of calcium, it still contributes to the body’s calcium intake. Additionally, compounds like vitamin K and magnesium in fennel improve calcium absorption from other foods, while antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids protect bones from free radical damage.

Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Fennel is rich in flavonoid and polyacetylene compounds, known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities. They inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, reduce respiratory inflammation, and aid in treating conditions like sore throat and bronchitis.

Soothes Cough and Throat Irritation

Fennel essential oil not only soothes the throat but also reduces the pain associated with a sore throat. It helps loosen phlegm effectively. Research indicates that gargling with diluted fennel seed oil can support lung health and reduce coughing.

Fennel essential oil soothes the throat and reduces irritation.

Delicious Fennel Recipes

Fennel and Potato Stir-Fry

Ingredients: Potatoes, fennel, garlic (minced), soy sauce, starch, and sesame oil.

Instructions:

– Peel and chop the potatoes into small pieces. Toss them with a moderate amount of starch to coat. Boil water in a pot and steam the potatoes until tender.

– Clean and finely chop the fennel. In a large bowl, combine the steamed potatoes and fennel. Drizzle with a sauce made from garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly.

In addition to this stir-fry, you can incorporate fennel into numerous other dishes, such as potato soup with meat, braised fish with fennel, fish soup with fennel, fish cakes with fennel, stir-fried fish offal with fennel, and various soups and stir-fries with potatoes, or even fennel and potato cakes.

You can add fennel to a variety of dishes, enhancing their flavor and nutritional profile.

Pork and Fennel Buns

Ingredients: Minced pork, fennel, wheat flour, yeast, sesame oil, salt, fish sauce or soy sauce (to taste), and cooking oil.

Instructions:

– Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix 500g of wheat flour with 3g of yeast. Knead the dough with water until smooth and elastic. After kneading, place the dough in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it rise until it doubles in size.

– Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine minced pork, fish sauce, salt, and sesame oil. Let the meat marinate for a short while, then add the fennel.

– Assemble the buns: Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions, roll them out, and place the filling in the center. Fold and seal the dough, then place the buns in a steamer and steam for about 15-20 minutes until cooked.

Frequently asked questions

The vegetable is none other than the humble eggplant. Often overlooked, this purple fruit (yes, it’s technically a fruit) is a powerhouse of nutrients and offers a range of health benefits that can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, particularly nasunin, a potent antioxidant that gives eggplants their distinctive purple color. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins C, K, and B6, potassium, manganese, and other essential nutrients.