Clove Bud Oil

Posted on February 14, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

‘Hit the nail on the head of your illness‘ is not a ruthless statement and the nail that is recommended to treat most of your illnesses is the ‘nail-shaped’ Clove and its essential oil extracted from the dried unopened flower buds of the Clove tree (Scientific name: Eugenia caryophyllata) by steam distillation.

It is a much celebrated emergency aid for treating toothache with its potent pain-relieving effect that causes numbness in the painful area and alleviates pain instantly.

Clove is a vital part of the Ayurvedic rebellion for more than 3,000 years and is known in Sanskrit as Devapuspa, meaning ‘Heavenly flower’ and the name is attributed to its exotic aroma and its stupendous healing benefits.

It is prevalently known in India as Laung or Lavnga. Clove and its essential oil in used in many Ayurvedic treatments for dealing with digestive problems, oral infections, diabetes, hypersensitivity, osteoporosis, impotence, sinusitis, improper blood circulation, prostate problems, arthritis and few other respiratory infections.

Purchase Clove Oil Bud – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Clove Oil Bud – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Clove and its essential oil:

Clove is native to the Moluccas Islands of Indonesia and was previously known as the Spice Islands. It is an evergreen tree which bears pink color flower buds and these buds are picked before they bloom and are dried to enrich mankind with the tiny brown buds known as ‘Cloves’. This tree grows naturally in India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, West Indies, Zanzibar, Madagascar and Tanzania.

Clove was traded to Europe initially in the 4^th century A.D where the ancient herbalists of Germany used Cloves as vital ingredient of their anti-gout remedy. Later it was used in treating wounds, infertility, nausea, diarrhea, worms and toothache.

Cloves were also used in poultices in England during the Middle Ages for treating infections and lesions caused due to bubonic plague. It was also recommended by Hildegard of Bingen for alleviating gout, nasal congestion, hiccups and intestinal swelling.

The traditional Ayurvedic medicine used Cloves as an effective aphrodisiac for addressing male reproductive problems and for assisting respiratory problems like asthma, cough, cold, sore throat, laryngitis and congestion.

It is blended with other popular herbs like cinnamon, ginger, peppercorn and cardamom and used as an immunostimulant, blood purifier, anti-parasitic, breath freshener and for relieving digestive disorders.

The historical use of Cloves in China evolved during the Han Dynasty (207 B.C.) and the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescribes Cloves for easing fungal infections, hernia, digestive problems, ringworm, nausea, kidney infections and impotence.

Cloves were also a part of the Western Herbal Medicine for enhancing circulation, supporting digestion, treating erectile dysfunction, hiccups, vomiting, toothache and halitosis.

Chemical components and therapeutic properties of Clove essential oil:

The primary component of Clove is Eugenol that adds up to 70 to 90% of the Clove essential oil constituent. Other major components are beta caryophyllene, methyl salicylate, kaempferol, acetyl eugenol, triterpenoids, gallotannic acid, rhamnetin, vanillin and eugenin.

Eugenol contributes to the sensible aroma of Cloves and its therapeutic properties including antifungal, anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. The other healing values of Clove essential oil are antioxidant, carminative, anti-carcinogenic, immunostimulant, stomachic, digestive, antibacterial, decongestant, expectorant and aphrodisiac.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Clove essential oil:

Woman/man in this modern world is judged by the gadgets she/he owns and the latest technology that has been swirling around. While most of us are aware about the techniques and tools in the mere man-made machines, how many of us know about our own body and its mechanisms? Not many of us know what is happening in our system? What causes pain? What causes hunger? What causes cellular damage? Or what causes death before the predestined day of death?

More than the knowledge of the world around you, the real wisdom lies in the awareness of the world within you, within the human mind and body, the greatest wonder in this Cosmos.

Ayurveda simply introduces you to a never before living where you will explore and discover about yourselves and the word ‘Ayur + Veda’ by itself means the ‘the knowledge + life’. This ancient philosophy trusts that everything on earth is part of nature and is built with the same five elements that ‘Mother Nature’ is made up of.

The tremendous five elements are earth, water, air, fire and space. Earth signifies bones and muscles, water stands for blood, air assists breathing, fire notifies the body temperature and aid for metabolic functions and space is the spirit that stays in.

Every human being is created with a unique individual constitution comprising of three vital biological energies namely vata, pitta and kapha. These doshic elements are a combination of the five vital elements.

Air and space makes Vata and is responsible for circulation, nervous functions and aging symptoms, fire and water joins together for Pitta and is incharge of body temperature and metabolism and water and earth signifies Kapha energy and is accountable for structure and continuity. Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas that determines his personality, behavior and attribute.

Ayurvedic wisdom states that human health solely depends upon his/her harmony with nature, means the five elements of nature that are a representation of the three biological energies. Balance between the three doshas based upon the individual’s unique constitution indicates health and imbalance causes sickness.

The natural remedies in Ayurveda including the herbs, essential oils, meditation, yoga, physical exercises, prayers, Ayurvedic routine and Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massaging) aim at treating these imbalances of doshas.

Clove and its essential oil have been in use in the Ayurvedic regimen for addressing an extensive range of illnesses ranging from oral problems to kidney disorders. The essential oil of Clove is said to augment pitta energy and soothe excess of kapha and vata dosha.

Let’s check out the Ayurvedic health benefits of Clove essential oil.

1. Alleviates digestive problems:

Clove and its essential oil have been a part of many Ayurvedic preparations used in the treatment of various digestive disorders including bloating, intestinal gas, nausea, stomach upset, distention and dyspepsia.

According to Ayurveda, pitta dosha is responsible for the body temperature, warmth and the fire generated for stimulating the process of metabolism like digestion, absorption and excretion.

Pitta imbalance or insufficiency causes sluggishness in the digestive system and it is during these critical times , Clove essential oil is used in Ayurveda for triggering the metabolic functions and warming the digestive tract.

Massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Clove oil mixed with 1 ml of coconut oil assists in encouraging the digestive system, increasing the secretion of hydrochloric acid, bile and other digestive juices for enhancing trouble-free digestion. You can also take bath in lukewarm water enriched with 3 to 5 drops of Clove oil for supporting bowel movements and recover peristalsis.

With its carminative, stomachic and anthelmintic properties Clove oil is a natural remedy for alleviating flatulence, intestinal worms, gastric irritability and various intestinal infections caused by bacteria, virus, protozoa and other pathogens leading to serious digestive problems like cholera.

2. Relieves respiratory disorders:

Ayurvedic system of healing prescribes Clove as an effective remedy for treating upper respiratory problems like cough, asthma, sinusitis, cold, sore throat, bronchitis, flu, whooping cough, fever and tuberculosis.

Excess of kapha dosha due to change in food habits or climatic conditions contribute mainly to respiratory problems, as excess water deposits accumulate in the nasal and bronchial passages in the form of mucous and phlegm deposits.

Clove essential oil added to steam inhalation, preferably 2 drops of this oil when inhaled in the form of steam helps in loosening the phlegm and mucous deposits by causing warmth in the nasal passages and the respiratory tract.

This also aids in killing the harmful germs and pathogens that worsen the illnesses. You can also add 2 drop of Clove oil to your decongesting ointment and massage it soothingly on your chest, back and throat for improved results.

3. Aids in pain, inflammation and skin problems:

Clove essential oil is an excellent aid in treating skin infections caused due to bacteria, virus, fungi and other harmful microbes mostly with its natural antiseptic properties.

Using 2 drops of Clove oil along with your mild skin care cream or lotion or with 1 ml of jojoba oil on your skin can aid in healing wounds, athlete’s foot, cuts, bruises, scabies, acne, prickly heat and insect stings.

It also helps in preventing the wounds from becoming septic. These skin-friendly properties of Clove oil is attributed to the presence of the eugenol compound which has rich antiseptic qualities.

Massaging the inflamed or painful parts of the body with 3 drops of Clove oil mixed with 2 ml of sesame oil helps in alleviating pain, reducing inflammation with its anti-inflammatory properties and discharges the excess water deposits, uric acid and toxic substances causing swelling, redness and irritation in rheumatism and arthritic conditions.

The presence of eugenol and its other derivative compounds like flavonoids, isoflavones and flavones are extremely advantageous in the perpetuation of bone density and aids in retaining the mineral content in the bones and support its tensile potency. By this way, Clove oil can be used as an effectual remedy for curing and preventing Osteoporosis.

4. Mitigates toothache and other oral problems:

Cloves are celebrated all around the globe for its natural dental assistance. Both the herb and its essential oil have been used in various traditional practices including Ayurveda, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Western herbalism as a promising anodyne for treating dental emergencies.

Adding 1 drop of Clove oil to a small cotton ball or bud and keeping it on the painful area in the mouth for 10 to 15 minutes can help in alleviating toothache by causing numbness in the aching part.

You can follow this treatment by gargling your mouth with a cup of warm water nourished with 2 drops of Clove oil for eliminating the microbes, germs and other harmful organisms causing pain and other oral infections.

Even today in many countries, Clove herb is directly applied to the gums for controlling pain during dental aid, treating toothache and for dry socket, which is a problem experienced during tooth extraction.

It has also been used in India as a natural breath freshener and as a guard against oral pathogens for treating gum problems like periodontitis and gingivitis. Clove oil is also an important ingredient in various Ayurvedic toothpastes and the most popular among them is the Dabur Red toothpaste.

5. Combats cancer and fights against free radicals:

Antioxidants are the soldier force that can combat the growth of cancerous tumors by fighting against free radicals causing cellular damage. The antioxidant capacity of a particular component is measured by its ORAC, meaning Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity. This measuring attribute was developed for the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) by the Scientists of Tufts University.

According to the study by the Essential Oils Desk reference amongst the numerous essential oils, Clove essential oil stands high with ORAC of 10,786,875 where the preceding oil was Thyme essential oil with 159,590 as its ORAC. This simply means that Clove oil is the best antioxidant in the world amongst all the other fruits, herbs and spices with 10 million ORAC. This is more than 400 times of the most powerful antioxidant fruit, the wolfberry.

Clove essential oil has antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties that help in treating all types of cancer including lung cancer and liver cancer, if traced in the early stages.

Massaging your body with 10 drops of Clove essential oil blended with 5 ml of Evening Primrose oil can help in decreasing the free radical production, discouraging the increased lipid profile in the liver, detoxifying the system, postponing the aging process (helps reduce wrinkles and other aging symptoms) and augmenting the body’s natural immune power.

6. Safe insect-repellant and instant air freshener:

Clove is by far known as the safest and non-toxic insect repellant that repels harmful insects like mosquitoes, bugs, fleas and ticks and it has been proved by the researches of the Duke University School of Nursing. This oil has a strong aroma that is intoxicating for the olfactory senses of various insects.

Adding 2 drops of Clove oil in diffuser, air freshener or vaporizer can revive the air instantly and protect your family from insects. You can also add 2 to 3 drops of Clove oil in your skin care lotion and apply it on your skin for keeping away from insects.

7. Assists in reproductive health:

Many traditional medical systems including Ayurveda and Unani medicine suggest the use of Clove oil as an aphrodisiac for treating reproductive problems especially in men. The spicy and warming aroma of Clove oil kindles the feelings of togetherness and supports the health of male and female reproductive system.

The book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ by Bryan Miller and Light Miller says that Clove essential oil is effective “ to arouse, stimulation of hormones, ‘stimulate the juices’, dispel inertia and depression”, which are all the causes of Kapha imbalances. Clove oil is a popular mental stimulant that alleviates fatigue, depression and other negative feelings that ruin your sexual life.

Massaging your body with 10 drops of Clove oil mixed with 5 ml of virgin olive oil can help in treating premature ejaculation, impotence, loss of sexual interest, erectile dysfunctions and loss of libido. You can also add 2 drops of Clove oil to your bath before going to bed.

Other health benefits:

Clove oil is a renowned flavoring agent in various food items and beverages. It is also used in the manufacturing of soaps, toothpastes, cosmetics, clove cigarettes and perfumes. Epilepsy, poor blood circulation, dizziness, earache and certain other health conditions are also treated with Clove essential oil.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not directed to use as a substitute for prescribed medicines or professional medical advice. Never use essential oils internally as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids.

Always use Clove essential oil in a diluted manner for external use only, as this oil is a skin and mucous membrane irritant, if used directly on the skin. Always speak with your Ayurvedic Practitioner before choosing the right essential oils for your unique individual constitution and medical condition.

Thought for the day:

And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. – Anais Nin

Suggested Reading:

Clove Oil! Discover The Essential Oil Of Cloves Health Benefits For Toothaches, Acne, Hair & Much More: A Book On Clove Oil Secrets (Natural Health Books Series) by Tina Cody
Scents Of Life: Use And Effect Of Essential Oils by H. M. Schemske
The Modern Ayurveda: Milestones Beyond the Classical Age from CRC Press
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
The Fragrant Mind: Aromatherapy for Personality, Mind, Mood and Emotion by Valerie Ann Worwood

Reference Links:

Your resource for quality Essential Oils. Every batch is
GC tested to ensure purity and authenticity.

Cubeb Oil

Posted on February 13, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Cubeb, the tailed-pepper is an exceptional fertility aid for both the Kings and Queens out there, with its significant aphrodisiac properties. “It stimulates the parathyroid, and so it would be an excellent addition to menopausal formulas, helping with problems of osteoporosis”, says Jenny Rose in her Aromatherapy Book.

Cubeb essential oil is extracted from the dried Cubeb berries through steam distillation method. This plant is botanically called as Piper cubeba and is a limb of the pepper family Piperaceae.

Cubeb was recommended by Charaka and Sushruta, the legendary Ayurvedic philosophers for treating halitosis, cough, loss of voice, fever, gonorrhea and certain other oral problems. Cubeb is known in Sanskrit as kankol and in Hindi as kabab chini and is a part of the Ayurvedic family Pippali kul. It is also used in Ayurvedic formulations for treating impotence, tastelessness, asthma, inflammation, piles, indigestion and menstrual problems.

Purchase Cubeb Oil – 4oz – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Cubeb:

Native to the Java and Sumatra islands of Indonesia, Cubeb is often called as Java pepper and is also grown widely in India and Malaysia. It’s taste is often compared to allspice or pepper like. Cubeb is said to have reached the European subcontinent through the ancient trades by the Arabs through India and Arabians call it as Kababa and is also talked about in the writings of Alchemy.

The use of Cubeb dates back to 4^th century BC in various parts of the world. It was brought to China during the Tang dynasty and was called by the Sanskrit names vidanga and vilenga.

The most interesting uses of Cubeb by the Tang physicians are to darken hair, treat demon vapors, loss of appetite and as a natural perfume for the body. Cubeb was also used in the Tibetan Medicine for treating problems associated with the spleen.

Hildegard of Bingen prescribed the use of Cubeb as an antiseptic and as a good tonic for the nervous system. The London Dispensatorie written by Nicholas Culpeper in 1654 says “Cubebs were hot and dry in the third degree… (snip) they cleanse the head of flegm and strengthen the brain, they heat the stomach and provoke lust“. Theophrastus has stated the use of Cubeb as an important ingredient in making sweet-smelling confections along with cassia and cinnamon.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Cubeb oil:

The chemical constituents of Cubeb essential oil are sesquiterpenes (namely α- and β-cubebene, caryophyllene, germacrene, δ-cadinene and copaene) and monoterpenes (including carene, 50% sabinene and α-thujene) along with camphor, pinene, azulene, lineal, alcohol cubebol and other oxides like 1,4- and 1,8-cineole.

The remedial attributes of Cubeb essential oil are carminative, diuretic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, expectorant, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, analgesic, disinfectant, astringent, gastro-protective and stimulant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Cubeb essential oil:

Ayurveda implanted strong roots of health through prevention of illnesses, disciplined lifestyle and absolute balance with nature leading to aging in the pink and extended life-span even beyond a hundred years. This 5,000 years old ancient healing methodology strongly insists to be on par with nature for leading a hale and harmonious living.

According to Ayurveda, everything on Earth is a combination of the 5 vital elements of nature and they are earth, fire, water, air and space.

It says that the only difference between a living thing and a non-living thing is the element of space that rests within living organisms as the soul. Bones and muscles represent earth, fire stands for the metabolic processes and body temperature, blood is a symbol of water, air assists in breathing and space is the soul, which indicates that we are alive.

Ayurvedic philosophy states that each human being is created with a unique individual constitution that comprises of three bio-energies known as doshas, namely vata, kapha and pitta types. Vata is a combination of air and space, pitta stands for fire and water and kapha represents water and earth.

Ayurveda denotes that every individual has a predominance of any one these doshas and that determines their physical set up, mental makeup and their personality. Balance between these doshas is a symbol of good health and imbalances of these biological energies due to food and lifestyle changes causes illnesses.

Treatments in Ayurveda vary from person to person even if it is for the same illness because this common sense science examines the individual constitution, patient history and the root cause of an illness before prescribing the suitable medication.

The most prevalent Ayurvedic remedies are herbs, plant essential oils, Abhyanga (the art of Ayurvedic massaging), yoga, Ayurvedic routine, prayer, simple physical exercises and mediation depending upon the unique individual constitution for correcting the doshic imbalances.

Cubeb oil is an effective Ayurvedic remedy for treating excess of kapha and vata energies and regularizing the pitta deficit.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Cubeb essential oil are:

1. Natural aid to fertility problems:

Cubeb essential oil has natural aphrodisiac properties for which it was used by ancient Arabians and in the Unani medicinal system in the treatment of fertility problems like infertility, loss of sexual interest, impotence, erectile dysfunction, all stages of gonorrhea and other STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).

In Ayurvedic terms, Cubeb oil contains Ushan as its Virya means hotness as its main potency. Warmth and increased body temperature influence better intimacy in a sexual relationship. Excess of vata dosha can also be a reason for lack of sexual interest and impotency. Cubeb essential oil is known for reducing increased vata dosha and helps treat various sexual problems.

Unani medicinal system suggests the use of Cubeb corns for increased sexual contentment and is it because of this attribute Cubebs were initially called in Arabic language as ‘Habb-ul-Uruus. It has also been noted in the book ‘One Thousand and One Nights’ as a key ingredient in the preparation of an aphrodisiac cure for infertility.

Cubeb oil has a warm, pungent and slightly camphoraceous fragrance with a feel of Nutmeg aroma. Add 3 drops of Cubeb oil in 3 ml of olive oil and massage your body for arousing intimate sexual feelings naturally. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in warm bathing water before going to bed and add 1 drop of Cubeb oil along with 1 drop of Lavender or Ylang Ylang oil in your diffuser to set the right mood perfectly.

2. Alleviates dental and oral infections:

Cubeb gets a special mention in both the highly-held Ayurvedic encyclopedias, the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita as an oral cleanser and as an aid for treating dental problems.

The essential oil of Cubeb has natural antiseptic, antimicrobial and astringent properties that assist in killing the harmful organisms in the mouth causing halitosis or bad breath, bleeding gums, plaque and cavities. Mix 1 drop of Cubeb oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle for relieving all kinds of dental and oral infections.

3. Relieves congestion and other respiratory illnesses:

Vitiated kapha dosha is responsible for water retention, excess deposits of phlegm and mucous, thus leading to respiratory problems like nasal congestion, chest congestion, cold and other pulmonary infections including bronchitis. The ability to reduce increased kapha energy is the major reason for Cubeb oil being used as a promising remedy in treating respiratory illnesses.

Many popular Physicians and Herbalists like Nicholas Culpeper have said that Cubeb is an excellent remedy for clearing phlegm deposits, strengthening the brain, alleviating bronchitis; asthma, relieving congestion and treating cough and throat infections. Add 2 to 3 drops of Cubeb oil in steam inhalation or to your vaporub and massage it gently on your throat, back and chest to experience quick relief from respiratory infections with its expectorant and antimicrobial properties.

4. Discards toxic substances in the body:

Cubeb essential oil has diuretic properties that help in discharging the toxic substances in the body known as ama, which is nothing but the remains of improper digestion which slowly turns toxic. These toxic remains along with salt deposits, uric acid, cholesterol and fat can lead to numerous medical conditions including kidney problems and heart diseases.

Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ say about Cubeb as “This herb has a light peppery smell. On occasion, when substituted into a formula for weight loss instead of black pepper, patients reported greater effectiveness .”

Cubeb oil acts as a stimulant in the body and promotes the proper functioning of the system. Its diuretic properties increase the quantity and frequency of urination and helps in cleansing the system.

Adding 2 drops of Cubeb oil in warm bathing water or in an Ayurvedic massage blend with 2 drops of peppermint oil, 2 drops of Cubeb oil along with 5 ml sesame oil assists in excreting toxic substances in the body, thus treating urinary infections, obesity, inflammatory conditions and other genito-urinary problems.

5. Assists in proper digestion and bowel movements:

Just like Pepper, Cubeb also has hot, spicy and pungent flavor. It’s potent to increase pitta energy is of great value in dealing with digestive problems like tastelessness, loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation, flatulence, intestinal worms etc., where Pitta dosha represents fire and water and is in charge of the metabolic functions. Massage your abdomen with 2 drops of Cubeb oil mixed with 2 ml of coconut oil for effective relief from digestive disorders.

A 2012 study on ‘In vitro efficacy of the essential oil of Piper cubeba L. (Piperaceae) against Schistosoma mansoni by Universidade de Franca published in Pubmed’ suggests that, “Piper cubeba essential oil possesses an effect against cercariae, schistosomula, and adult worms of the S. mansoni.” Schistosoma mansoni are adult worms that cause intestinal schistosomiasis (combined name for parasitic diseases).

Other uses:

Cubeb oil is also used as an important ingredient in lozenges, spirits, chewing gum, oral cleansers, toothpastes, cough drops, cigarettes for hay fever, asthma and chronic pharyngitis. It is also used in Ayurvedic healing for treating joint and bone problems.

Disclaimer:

This article is meant only for the purpose of education and information. Using it as a substitute for prescribed medicines or professional medical advice is not recommended. Always use essential oils for topical application in a diluted form only as organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and can cause allergic reactions.

Cubeb oil is a possible skin irritant and it is good to be avoided during pregnancy and nursing. Always consult your Ayurvedic expert before making the right choice of essential oils that suit your medical condition and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

In wilderness I sense the miracle of life, and behind it our scientific accomplishments fade to trivia. -Charles Lindbergh

Suggested Reading:

ISO 3756:1976, Oil of Cubeb by ISO TC 54
The Master Book of Herbalism by Paul Beyerl
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
All About Spices: Pepper, Cubebs, Nutmegs, Cloves, Ginger, Vanilla, Pimento, Cinnamon (1889) by Alastair Mackenzie Ferguson, John Ferguson
The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless

Reference Links:

Fennel Seed Oil

Posted on February 11, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

“Every lactating mother should have this oil at hand because it helps with milk production and eases colic. It is useful during pregnancy to prevent morning sickness, and is excellent for the traveler, helping to reduce sea sickness and jet lag”, says Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy.

Fennel is one remarkable herb with bunch of culinary and remedial benefits that embraces your food with its innate aroma and rich flavor blended with numerous healing attributes.

Owing its origin to the coastal Mediterranean region Fennel is botanically called as Foeniculum vulgare. It has been accepted and cultivated worldwide for its enormous benefits that some countries like India, Pakistan and China hold Fennel seeds and its essential oil as an important ingredient of their traditional cooking.

With the whole plant serving humanity with its unique qualities, Fennel fruits usually entitled as seeds when dried contributes to the extraction of Fennel seed oil by the process of steam distillation. Bearing anethole as the predominant flavoring substance, Fennel seed oil serves as an aid for various purposes.

Fennel is called in Ayurveda as Shatapushpa, which means hundred flowers. It has a long historical use in this ancient healing methodology in the treatment of cold, indigestion, gas, flatulence, PMS, low agni, abscesses, overindulgence in nicotine or alcohol, cramps, colic in children and menstrual problems.

Purchase Fennel Seed Oil – Retail – 4oz – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Fennel and its essential oil:

Numerous sources state that the Romans, English, Greek and Asians were well known of the extensive healing values of this aromatic herb. With its name engraved in the nine herbs charm practiced in the 10^th century, Fennel along with other herbs was intended to treat poisonous infections and other diseases.

The sweet, strong and pleasing aroma of this herb earned global importance and the poetic scholar Milton had mentioned the quality of Fennel in one of his works that says:

‘A savoury odour blown,

Grateful to appetite, more pleased my sense

Than smell of sweetest Fennel.’

Referred to as the herb of sight by the ancient Romans, Fennel herb was employed to improve the eyesight of humans and animals. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and natural philosopher had mentioned in his book ‘The Natural History’ that the serpents would rub against the Fennel herb at the time of shedding off their skin to improve their sight.

Fennel herb aids in shedding off the excess fat, the reason for which the Greeks called this herb as Marathon, derived from the word ‘Mariano’ which means ‘to grow thin’. It is interesting to know that the Marathon event conducted in memory of the Greek soldier Pheidippides literally means ‘Land of Fennels’. It possesses excellent appetite suppressing properties that was widely used by soldiers during long journey and by common men while holding religious fasts.

Fennel herb was considered to bear the potential of protecting one from witchcraft and driving away the evil forces for which it was hung in the entrance of every home. Since it bears the attribute of strengthening oneself, athletes commonly use fennel seeds as a supplement to provide instant energy and strength.

Fennel seed has been used since ages that it has been mentioned in one of the works of Hildegard of Bingen who belonged to the middle ages but was recently crowned as the Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XVI for her renowned works in the field of medicine.

Fennel seeds and leaves are used in culinary as an aromatic and flavoring element. The Fennel bulbs are used as a vegetable that can be taken raw as well as cooked. It also helps in alleviating womanly health issues and is efficient in boosting up the mental sturdiness thus making one emotionally strong. Fennel seed oil is widely used for its stomachic properties as it aids in digestion thus healing a variety of digestive disorders.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Fennel Seed oil:

Fennel seed oil comprises of numerous chemical constituents of which the majority is anethole. The other components include α-Pinene, Camphene, Sabinene, β-Pinene, Myrcene, phellandrene, o-Cymene, Limonene, Eucalyptol, Terpinene, Fenchone, Linalool, Camphor, Estragole, Fenchyl acetate, Cumic aldehyde and p-Anisaldehyde.

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent source of various healing attributes such as carminative, digestive, stomachic, diuretic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antiseptic, depurative, expectorant, galactogogue, anti-diabetic, analgesic, estrogenic, anti-toxic and tonic.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Ayurveda is a noble child of the ancient Indian tradition, the country with the world’s oldest historical references. This ancient healing methodology is more than 5,000 years old and is said have mentioned in Atharvaveda, one among the 4 prominent Vedic texts of India. Ayurveda is known as the science of holistic healing that aims at longevity and healthy aging through the use of natural medications and healthy lifestyle.

Ayurveda trusts that everything on earth is a part of nature and is made up of the five vital elements of nature namely fire, water, earth, air and space.

Leading a harmonious or balanced living with nature supports absolute health and imbalance causes illnesses. Every human being, according to Ayurveda is made up of an unique individual constitution that consists three biological energies known as doshas.

Doshas or Ayurvedic body types are nothing but a representation or a combination of the five vital elements. Vata dosha stands for air and space, pitta symbolizes fire and water and kapha represents water and earth.

Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas and this predominance determines their personality, attributes and behavior. Balance between these biological energies support hale and heartiness and imbalance between these doshas pave way for diseases.

Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, balanced lifestyle and prayers aim at striking perfect balance between these doshas. Fennel seed oil is said to have equal effects on all the three doshas.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Fennel Seed oil are:

1. Alleviates digestive disorders:

Fennel seeds and its essential oil have been proved as amazing natural remedies for all kinds of digestive disorders. It is one of the best accepted carminative oil that assists in expelling gas accumulated in the intestines and prevents the formation of gas thus protecting one from bloating and abdominal cramps due to gas. It is for this reason Fennel seeds are traditionally used in the preparation of gripe water to treat colic in infants and to prevent ulcer and acidity in adults.

A 2003 study on the effect of Fennel seed oil emulsion in infantile colic concludes that the use of Fennel oil considerably comforted the infants from colic with no side effects when compared to those who were treated with placebo.

Blend 2 drops of Fennel seed oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it on your stomach and abdomen. As a natural stimulant, Fennel oil massage can help in stimulating the secretion of gastric juices and digestive enzymes such as bile and promotes the process of digestion.

It also regulates the peristaltic movement of the intestines thus aiding irregular bowel movements and constipation. Moreover, it possesses anti- fungal and anti microbial properties that can effectively kill infectious micro organisms in the intestines.

Fennel seed oil has antispasmodic properties that relax the smooth muscles of the intestines and results in quick recovery from pains and abdominal discomfort caused due to indigestion, heartburn, bloating etc.

Unlike the other spices, Fennel seed oil has a unique cooling effect that pacifies the intestines and muscles of the stomach and helps in curing stomach ulcer. Thus Fennel essential oil is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for treating indigestion, gastroenteritis, stomach upset, flatulence and hernias.

Rich in anethole, Fennel seeds are used as a trusted mouth freshener in Indian restaurants and homes. Popularly known as Mukhwas meaning mouth freshener, the sweet coated Fennel seeds are used as an after-meal snack.

It is for this reason Fennel is often employed in the preparation of toothpaste, liquors, desserts, culinary and mouth fresheners. Add 1 drop of Fennel oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle after meals to keep away from microbes and fight against bad odor or halitosis.

2. Treats respiratory tract infections:

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent respiratory aid with its spicy, peppery and slightly earthy aroma and expectorant properties. Chewing Fennel seeds refreshes your breath and its essential oil assists in treating respiratory tract infections effectively.

Fennel seed oil has anti-microbial and expectorant properties that help in fighting against harmful bacteria and viruses that cling to your respiratory tract, resulting in heavy deposits of mucus and phlegm.

Adding 2 drops of Fennel oil in steam inhalation or warm bathing water can work wonders in alleviating your respiratory infections as it acts as a natural expectorant, helping in loosening huge deposits of mucus, thus relieving you from all respiratory tract infections such as whooping cough, cold, bronchitis, allergies and breathing difficulties etc.

3. Heals womanly health concerns:

Fennel seed oil possesses female reproductive hormones, which are known to stimulate and regulate the secretion of estrogen in women. Bryan Miller and Light Miller have said in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy that Fennel oil is very useful in treating menopause and PMS with its rich content of phyto-estrogens, for which this oil is used frequently in the manufacturing breast tightening and enlarging creams.

Gently massage your lower abdomen with 3 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1.5 ml of sweet almond oil for treating irregularities in the menstrual cycle, problems associated with menopause, mood swings, dysmennorhea, blocked menstruation, nervousness and abdominal pain. This massage can also be helpful in facilitating child birth.

Fennel seed oil is used after child birth in India mainly to facilitate the removal of toxins from the uterus, support natural contraction of the uterus and also to increase the quantity and quality of the breast milk in lactating mothers. A study on estrogenic property of Fennel seed oil has proved that an acetone extract from fennel seeds had estrogenic effects on the genital organs of male and female rats.

4. Detoxifies the body and promotes weight loss:

Obesity or overweight is one vast roof that can encompass one with a cluster of diseases. Fennel seed oil is an excellent cleansing agent that naturally detoxifies your body by excreting the toxins, excess fluids or water deposits, salt, harmful fats, bad cholesterol and uric acid deposits.

Being a diuretic, Fennel oil increases the quantity and regularity of urinating and helps in attenuation of hypertension, treatment of burning or difficult urination and inflammation due to water retention in the body.

The sweet and refreshing aroma of this oil suppresses the appetite, thus largely decreasing the longing for food. Add 2 to 3 drops of Fennel oil to your hankie, tissues or air fresheners for decreasing your appetite and granting you a feeling of fullness for a longer duration.

Fennel seed oil when added to a massage blend, consisting of 2 drops of this oil with 1 ml of sesame oil works effectively in the filtering toxins from the blood, thus protecting the liver from detrimental toxic substances. Fennel oil has been marked as a useful essential oil in toning the body with its diuretic property and be useful in dealing with obesity.

Along with detoxifying, Fennel seed oil also assists in boosting the process of metabolism and suppressing the appetite. This oil also has melatonin, which has the ability of relaxing the muscles, smoothing the nerves and resulting in a sound, peaceful sleep that may help one to control from gaining extra weight and protects from some serious disorders like cardiovascular diseases that results due to obesity.

5. Strengthens you emotionally:

Fennel seed oil helps in relaxing the mind, calming the nerves and pacifying the nervous system. Adding 2 drops of this oil in diffuser or vaporizer aids in getting rid of emotional stress, anxiety and fear. Inhaling this invigorating aroma helps in building up self confidence, enhancing the power of self-acceptance and influencing the qualities of innate love for self and others as well.

Along with its ability to help maintain a healthy physique, Fennel seed oil also boosts up your inner spirit and motivates you from within. It is for this dignified cause, athletes often use Fennel seeds as a supplementary for nourishing positive energy and affirmative thoughts.

6. Fights against free radicals:

Numerous studies have proved that Fennel seed oil possesses strong anti-oxidant properties that help in the treatment of pharmacological ailments. This property assists in fighting effectively against the free radicals that result in causing aging symptoms and paving way for the growth of cancerous or malignant tumors.

As an anti-oxidant, Fennel oil tones the skin by strengthening the connective tissues and efficiently treats wrinkles and the other signs of aging, thus making you to feel younger from within and glow with natural beauty. This attribute is also implemented in oral care for supporting strong teeth and gums. It fights against infections and helps in treating acne, pimples and other skin disorders.

Mix 2 drops of Fennel oil with 1 ml of virgin olive oil or jojoba oil and gently massage on wrinkles, dark spots, acne, marks, dull and lifeless skin. This enhances good blood circulation and promotes cellular regeneration.

7. Effective in relieving you from inflammation, spasms and aids in quick wound healing:

Fennel seed oil is an effective antiseptic, which helps in killing harmful microbes, promotes quick healing of wounds and prevents it from becoming septic. By this way, Fennel oil thwarts the onset of Tetanus, for which it is often used in many ointments and is also used in poultices to treat poisonous bites.

It is an excellent source of anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Massaging the affected part with 2 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1 ml of warm sesame oil helps in alleviating inflammation, relieving pain and reducing swelling and promoting blood circulation. This massage also helps in supporting proper functioning of the circulatory system. It is for all these reasons Fennel oil has been used as an effective traditional remedy for rheumatism, arthritis and muscular cramps.

Using 3 drops of Fennel oil in hot compress can assist in quicker recovery of spasms and muscle contractions that occur due to hiccups, chronic coughs and epilepsies. Mix 1 drop of Fennel oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply it gently on wounds and infections for quicker healing.

Other health benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Fennel seed oil is used to improve eyesight and treat cloudy eyes since ancient times. Even though a 2008 article published in PubMed states that fennel extract is found to be effective in treating rabbits with glaucoma, further research is yet to be done in its application for human beings.

Fennel has the power of driving away fleas and its powder is used in kennels and stables. It is used as a preservative in pickles and also in the preservation of fruits and vegetables mainly because of its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. It is also used in the manufacture of soaps, disinfectant cleaners and dental products for its antiseptic and aromatic properties.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the purpose of education and is not intended to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Do not use essential oils internally and always use essential oils topically in a diluted form, as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the suitable essential oil for your unique individual constitution and health condition.

Thought for the day:

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains. -Diane Ackerman

Suggested Reading:

Fennel Greats: Delicious Fennel Recipes, The Top 79 Fennel Recipes by Jo Franks
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
Natural Solutions to PCOS: How to Eliminate Your Symptoms and Boost Your Fertility by Dr. Marilyn Glenville PhD
Do You Want to Have a Baby? Natural Fertility Solutions and Pregnancy Care by Sarah Abernathy
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: The Definitive Home Reference Guide to 550 Key Herbs with all their Uses as Remedies for Common Ailments by Andrew Chevallier

Reference Links: