Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea
A naturally sweet cup to settle a full stomach
Preliminary evidenceHerbs in this remedy
About this remedy
A cup of fennel seed tea after a big meal is one of the oldest digestive habits around, and it is recognised by the European Medicines Agency as a traditional herbal medicine for bloating, wind and mild stomach cramps. Crushing the seeds just before brewing releases their aromatic oil, which is thought to relax the gut. Trials in adults are few, so this is a gentle comfort measure rather than a proven treatment, but it is cheap, caffeine-free and well suited to the season of long dinners.
Preparation
Lightly crush 1 teaspoon (about 2 g) of fennel seeds with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. Pour over 1 cup (150–250 mL) of just-boiled water, cover so the oil doesn't escape with the steam, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sip slowly while warm.
Dosage
1 cup after a meal, up to 3 cups a day. If symptoms last more than 2 weeks, stop and speak to a healthcare professional.
Cautions
Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and do not give to children under 4 — fennel contains estragole, which is best avoided in these groups. Avoid if you are allergic to celery, carrot, mugwort or other plants in the carrot family. See a doctor for indigestion that is new and persistent, especially over 55, or that comes with weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or black or bloody stools.
Research
European Medicines Agency (HMPC), Community herbal monograph on Foeniculum vulgare Miller, fructus, 2008 — traditional use for mild spasmodic digestive complaints, bloating and flatulence
Frequently asked questions
What is Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea used for?
A naturally sweet cup to settle a full stomach. A cup of fennel seed tea after a big meal is one of the oldest digestive habits around, and it is recognised by the European Medicines Agency as a traditional herbal medicine for bloating, wind and mild stomach cramps. It falls under Digestive Health.
How do you make Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea?
Lightly crush 1 teaspoon (about 2 g) of fennel seeds with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. Pour over 1 cup (150–250 mL) of just-boiled water, cover so the oil doesn't escape with the steam, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sip slowly while warm.
What is the recommended dosage for Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea?
1 cup after a meal, up to 3 cups a day. If symptoms last more than 2 weeks, stop and speak to a healthcare professional.
Is Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea safe? Are there any cautions?
Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and do not give to children under 4 — fennel contains estragole, which is best avoided in these groups. Avoid if you are allergic to celery, carrot, mugwort or other plants in the carrot family. See a doctor for indigestion that is new and persistent, especially over 55, or that comes with weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or black or bloody stools.
What is the evidence behind Fennel Seed After-Meal Tea?
Preliminary evidence. European Medicines Agency (HMPC), Community herbal monograph on Foeniculum vulgare Miller, fructus, 2008 — traditional use for mild spasmodic digestive complaints, bloating and flatulence