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We are aware that fennel seeds, also known as saunf, are the ideal mouth freshener. In fact, every kitchen has access to this herb. And for a good reason! The medicinal powers of saunf are well-known. These seeds can enhance your health because they are high in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and D. In fact, some of the crucial nutrients that contribute to the benefits of saunf include iron, zinc, copper, calcium, potassium, fibre, and magnesium.
Health Shots spoke to Hari Lakshmi, Consultant-Dietitian/Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Chennai, about the benefits of fennel seeds and how they can help improve one’s health.
Lakshmi says, “Every Indian meal is incomplete without the post-food refreshment in the form of green fennel seeds, or saunf. Apart from the aromatic flavours and taste, saunf has several health benefits.”
Here are 10 health benefits of saunf:
1. Fight bad breath
The most widely known benefit is that fennel seeds combat bad breath due to the presence of essential oils that have anti-bacterial properties.
2. Good for heart health
Fennel plant is a rich source of fibre and also has nutrients like potassium and folate, which are beneficial in maintaining good heart health.
3. Improves bone health
The fennel bulb is a good source of calcium and phosphate, which help to maintain bone health.
4. Flushes out toxins
Drinking fennel tea can help to flush out excess fluids as it works as a diuretic. It helps remove toxins from the body and helps in reducing water retention.
5. Better for digestion
Saunf is a super cure for gastric pain or acidity. Being rich in fibre, it helps in digestion and regularizing bowel movements, especially caused by overeating and unhealthy eating.
6. Treats aneamia
Green fennel is high in Vitamin C. When you pair fennel with iron-rich foods, it can help to reduce iron deficiency by helping with iron absorption. Good iron absorption will help in reducing the symptoms of anaemia.
7. Good for skin
Fennel can help to improve the quality of your skin as it contains nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin C that aid in collagen production and repair tissues.
8. Relieves menstrual cramps
Saunf can help in relieving menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that it contains nitrites, which improve blood flow and aid the uterus in expelling the uterine lining more efficiently.
9. Boosts metabolism
Fennel improves the metabolism of the body as it is a source of vitamin B-6. This vitamin plays a vital role in breaking down carbohydrates and proteins into glucose and amino acids, thereby improving metabolism and helping you stay energetic.
10: Helps in weight loss
Fennel is low in calories and can be a useful ingredient when managing weight. Apart from this, it can help with weight loss because it is loaded with calcium, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
So, add saunf to your daily diet and enjoy these benefits!
