Evidence supporting the use of: Fennel
For the body system: Gall Bladder

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Synopsis

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

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly within Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for supporting digestive health, including the gall bladder. Historically, fennel seeds have been used as a carminative to relieve bloating, indigestion, and to stimulate bile flow, which is relevant to gall bladder function. Ancient texts and ethnobotanical records suggest fennel was believed to aid in the breakdown of fatty foods and promote overall liver and gall bladder health. However, while there is some in vitro and animal research indicating that fennel's essential oils may have choleretic (bile-stimulating) properties, robust clinical studies in humans specifically targeting gall bladder function are lacking. Thus, the primary justification for fennel's use in supporting the gall bladder comes from traditional use rather than substantial scientific validation. Most contemporary herbal reference texts acknowledge the traditional rationale but caution that more evidence is needed to confirm efficacy and specific mechanisms. In summary, fennel is used for gall bladder support primarily based on traditional practices rather than modern clinical evidence.

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