Did you know...
The word fennel is derived from the Latin fenuculum, which means 'hay'? It is thought that the plant got its name because it was frequently used as a fodder.
The ancient Greeks called it marathon, which means 'to grow thin'. It would appear that fennel was one of the earliest 'slimming aids'! Because of the feeling of fullness that it gives, it is said that wealthier Greeks ate fennel to help them slim down.
Fennel is also well know for its many supportive effects on the digestive system. It helps to improve digestion and ease stress-related indigestion. It may also relieve colic, gas, hiccups, nausea and vomiting. Fennel oil helps to tone the smooth muscles of the intestines and through this action it can help strengthen peristalsis and counteract constipation. constipation.
In her book , Aromatherapy Science, A guide for healthcare professionals, Maria Lis-Balchin mentions a study done by her in 1996 that showed Sweet Fennel oil had a strong spasmogenic effect on electrically stimulated smooth muscle of the guinea-pig in vitro. She also says:
- Fennel oil increased phasic contractions of muscle cells at high concentrations and had a relaxant effect at low concentrations; fellel contracted tracheal muscle (Reiter and Brandt, 1985).
- Fennel oil is mildly oestrogenic, due to the anethole content (Albert-Puleo, 1980).
- Fennel oil has increased liver regeneration in partially hepatectomised rats and has show anti-inflammatory action (Wren, 1988).
Leung & Foster, in their Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Second Edition say:
- Fennel oil has been reported to have spasmolytic effects on smooth muscles of experimental animals. (T. Shipochliev, Vet Med. Nauki, 5, 63 (1968) through Chem Abstr., 70 86144e (1969).
- It also exhibited antibacterial activities in vitro. (F.M. Ramadan et al., Chem Mikrobial. Technol. Lebensm., 2, 51 (1972)
On a subtle level, Fennel helps one to identify the root causes of self-rejection and encourages the ability to embrace oneself. It can help to increase courage, confidence and motivation and promote uninhibited communication. It helps one to discover what it is we want to say and then to express that to others in a positive way.
Contra-indications and Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy. Use with extreme caution if suffering from epilepsy. Use with caution on sensitive skins as this oil may cause mild skin sensitization.
Easter is just a week and a half away, if you are thinking of making your own Easter gifts this year, our e-book, Aromatic Gifts for All Ages and All Seasons may have just what you are looking for.
Our other e-Books and DVD :
- Infant Massage,
- Subtle Aromatherapy,
- Aromatic Lords and Ladies of the Zodiac, an exercise in energetic blending .
- The Hawkins Protocol is now available as an E-book.
- Aroma Massage DVD.
As always the self-directed home study Aromatherapy Courses are available. When you are ready they are only a click away, a click that will lead you into a world filled with information, self-growth and delight! Perhaps they will be a gift you give yourself this year!
Workshops for 2010
These are offered once a month, generally the third weekend of the month so follow the link and browse through the offerings for 2010.
April 17 & 18 (2 day workshop)
Seated Chair Massage
$300.00 plus GST
Prerequisites: None
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