Fennel

Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare, is a perennial herb that is native to Southern Europe and now cultivated extensively all over Europe, China, India, Turkey and the Middle East. The fennel plant grows to a height of up to 2.5 m, before bearing small oblong seeds that are slightly curved in shape, light green in color and about 3-4 mm long. They have fine vertical stripes all over their surface.

Fennel is an ancient spice and is referred to several times in Greek mythology. It was closely associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of food and wine, and it was in a fennel stalk that the coal of knowledge was passed from the gods to men. Today, India is the leader in the production of fennel.

Uses of fennel

As a condiment: Fennel seeds are an important spice in Indian, Pakistani, Iranian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is also an important ingredient in Indian curry masalas, and Chinese five-spice powders. The leaves of the fennel plant are used as a vegetable and are common in Syria, Lebanon, Italy and other Mediterranean countries. Its essential oil is used in herbal toothpastes and as a massage oil to relieve joint pain.

For general health: Fennel has been used in ancient medicine systems for a wide variety of illnesses, including as a carminative, for the treatment of hypertension, for improving eyesight and for chronic cough. Recent research has confirmed the presence of flavonoid anti-oxidants like kaempferol and quercetin , which help remove harmful free radicals from the body and thus protect from cancers, infection, aging and degenerative neurological diseases. In addition, fennel is also a rich source of insoluble dietary fiber, which helps in lowering cholesterol and providing protection from colon cancer.

Selection and storage of fennel

Fresh fennel seeds are bright green in color and have a strong sweet aroma similar to licorice or anise. They lose their aroma and change to a dry brown color when stored for long periods.

It is advisable to store fresh fennel seeds in an airtight glass container, in a cool, dark and dry place. While fennel seeds remain fresh for six months, powdered fennel loses its flavor within three months from the date of packing due to the quick evaporation of its essential oils. Refrigerating fennel seeds can help extend their shelf life.

Purchase superior quality fennel at Ameen Exports

Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, is the best place to purchase high quality whole fennel seeds and fennel powder. Directly sourced from the framers themselves, the fresh fennel seeds are processed in our state-of-the-art processing unit fitted with latest machinery including pre-cleaners, de-stoners, mills, stuffing cum sealing machines, packaging cum bagging machines, aspirators, graders etc. We also provide customized branding and packing solutions for bulk export orders.