Evidence supporting the use of: Fennel
For the health condition: Belching

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and European herbalism, for digestive complaints including belching (eructation), bloating, and flatulence. The seeds are commonly chewed after meals in many cultures to freshen breath and ease digestive discomfort. Historical texts and folk medicine sources describe fennel as a carminative—an agent that helps expel gas from the digestive tract, thus reducing belching and discomfort associated with indigestion.

The rationale for using fennel is attributed to its volatile oils, such as anethole, fenchone, and estragole, which are thought to relax gastrointestinal smooth muscle and reduce spasms, thus facilitating the passage of gas and easing bloating and belching. However, while there is abundant anecdotal and traditional support, scientific studies specifically targeting fennel's effect on belching are limited. Some clinical and laboratory studies have shown that fennel extracts can reduce intestinal spasms and discomfort, but these often address general dyspepsia or infantile colic rather than belching in isolation.

Overall, the use of fennel for belching is primarily justified by tradition, with moderate evidence from historical use and some supportive, though indirect, scientific data regarding its benefits for digestive health and gas-related symptoms.

More about fennel
More about Belching