Contributed by Angela Cleveland

Ingredients

Fennel is one of the most versatile plants available. Almost every part of the plant can be consumed. At the top of the plant you can find feathery leaves which have a mild licorice flavour and can be added to salads or as a beautiful (and delicious) garnish. The dainty yellow flowers appear in umbels and eventually form into small brown seeds which are used to flavour breads or stuffing. The thick bulb is layered like an onion, but, like the leaves, it has a mild fresh licorice flavour.

Instructions

Not only delicious, the fennel plant is also used medicinally. Taken internally, the fennel plant is believed to help with digestive problems and urinary disorders. It is also used as an antispasmodic and a pain and fever reducer. Fennel mouthwash is used for gum disease and sore throats. Used externally, the oil makes a great liniment for chest congestion. With its cleansing action, it also makes a great skin tonic. The benefits of fennel go on and on.

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