Fennel tea is one of the simplest herbal teas you can make at home. You need fennel seeds or a fresh fennel bulb, boiling water and about ten minutes. Here is how to do it, plus a few variations.

What is fennel?

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a plant from the Mediterranean region. You know it as a vegetable (the white bulb), as a herb (the green fronds) and as a spice (the seeds). The seeds taste sweet and slightly of aniseed, which is what gives fennel tea its flavour.

Fennel tea with seeds

  1. Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds per cup (250 ml).
  2. Crush the seeds lightly in a mortar or with the back of a spoon. This releases more aroma.
  3. Pour freshly boiled water over them.
  4. Cover the cup and let it steep for about 10 minutes.
  5. Strain and drink warm.

Tip: buy whole seeds and crush them just before use. Ready-ground fennel loses its aroma faster. Store the seeds in a closed jar, away from light.

Fennel tea with fresh fennel

Cut a few thin slices of the bulb, or use a handful of the green fronds. Pour boiling water over them and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. The taste is milder and fresher than with seeds.

Three variations

  • Fennel and mint: add a few fresh mint leaves.
  • Fennel and lemon: add a slice of lemon after steeping.
  • Fennel and ginger: add two thin slices of fresh ginger for a spicier cup.

Fennel at the table, around the world

Fennel seeds are part of many kitchens. In Italy they flavour sausages and bread. In India, sugar-coated fennel seeds (mukhwas) are often offered at the end of a meal. In the Netherlands you will find fennel tea in almost every supermarket.

Good to know

Pregnant, breastfeeding, or making tea for a child? Check with your GP or midwife first. The same goes if you take medication or have a medical condition.

Fennel in Floraelle Debloat

Debloat contains 150 mg of fennel seed extract per daily dose of 2 capsules, alongside ginger, peppermint, artichoke and DigeZyme®. Every dose is on the label. See all ingredients and how we test on our Ingredients & Quality page.

A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

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