Fennel blooms in clusters of umbrellalike small yellow flowers that yield small greenish-brown seeds with licorice flavor. I grow bronze fennel and the swallowtail butterfly feeds upon it. I love to watch this as they lay eggs that hatch in 3-5 days and chow down.
I use fennel in a few tea blends for its licorice flavor and as a digestive aid. It stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes, calms the digestive tract, prevents spasms and improves the absorption of nutrients. It also provides nutrients to restore strength and vigor.
This herb is also a natural diuretic and eases bloating and relieves swollen ankles, hands, and hormonal puffiness. It has antiseptic volatile oils, and its diuretic properties help fight infections in the urinary tract and flush out toxins.
Moderate use is recommended and avoid fennel if you are prone to blood clots.