Bitter fennel

Bitter fennel or bitter fennel fruit.

Alternative names

 * Foeniculi amari fructus

Evidence
The European Union's Committee on Herbal Medicine recognizes sweet fennl's use for:
 * mild, bloating, flatulence and mild spasmodic gastrointestinal symptoms
 * minor spasms associated with menstrual periods
 * helping cough up mucus when a cough is associated with a cold

Risks and side effects
The European Union Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products states to avoid using it if hypersensitive or allergic to the active substance, any of the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family (aniseed, caraway, celery, coriander and dill), or to anethole. Can cause allergic reactions affecting the skin and breathing. The EU Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products states that bitter fennel causes oestrogenic activity, and that "excessive doses of fennel oil" may interfere with prescription medication including hormone therapy, oral contraceptive pills, and hormone replacement therapy.. Studies on nice have shown a link to liver cancer, and other effects.
 * allergic reactions
 * hormonal effects
 * possible harmful effects

Learn more

 * drugs.com - natural products (consumer)
 * drugs.com - natural products (professional)
 * Foeniculum vulgare aetheroleum (bitter fennel) - Committee on Herbal Medicine Products
 * Community list entry on foeniculum vulgare miller subsp. vulgare var. vulgare, fructus (B, part A)