Finokio (fennel) - Composition, Benefits And Harms

Also known as fennel or fennel, fennel is an exotic vegetable and spice with healing properties. In our country it is known as fennel. In other countries it is considered wild fennel (Roman), Florentine, Italian, apothecary. A typical Mediterranean species that is cultivated throughout Europe, America, Asia and Africa. It grows excellently in Bulgaria. The plant belongs to the chicory family and is characterized by a fragrant, strong aroma of anise.

Finokioto has a juicy and large onion, which gives a unique sweet taste and aroma similar to anise in the recipes in which it is added. It belongs to the parsley family (Umbelliferae) and is associated with carrots, cumin, anise, dill and others.

Fennel is a vegetable that grows in winter. Contains essential oils, flavonoid antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that are known to offer health benefits. Vegetables are used in various fields: pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies, as well as in cooking.

Nutritional composition of finch

Fennel is a low-calorie vegetable. 100 grams contain only 31 calories. It is a rich source of fiber - in 100 grams there are 3.1 grams or 8% of the required daily requirement. Wild fennel does not contain cholesterol and is low in fat. Fresh, the vegetable has a sweet taste and aroma of anise. Much of the aroma comes from the essential oils such as anethole, tarragon and fennel (phenylacetate) in the finch. Anethole has been found to have antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Bulbs have a moderate amount of minerals and vitamins, which are essential for optimal health. The sweet leaves of fennel contain vital vitamins - B1, B2, PP, B5, B6 and B9 in small but healthy proportions. In 100 grams of fresh vegetables there are 27 micrograms of folic acid - vitamin B9, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Adequate folate levels in the diet during pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects in newborns.

Fennel also contains moderate amounts of water-soluble vitamin C - in 100 grams there are 12 milligrams or 20%. This vitamin helps the human body to develop resistance to infectious agents and to clean harmful, inflammatory, free radicals. Wild fennel also contains small amounts of vitamin A and potassium - 100 grams of vegetables contain 414 milligrams of potassium or 9% of the daily recommended value. Potassium helps reduce blood pressure and heart rate. Finokio also contains small amounts of the minerals copper, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and selenium.

Useful and healing properties of finch

Healing properties of fennel are associated with the balance and functions of the digestive system, preventing the risk of coronary heart disease - such as heart attack or cerebral hemorrhage.

It has an antioxidant effect, is used in the fight against anemia because it contains iron. Due to its diuretic effect, it is recommended for use in the form of tea, especially  for problems with obesity or rheumatic, cardiovascular diseases, which lead to fluid retention in the body. Decoction of finnokio has a beneficial effect on inflamed bronchi or pneumonia.

Favors the nervous system and is recommended for depression. Fennel relieves menstrual pain and prevents the appearance of cystic formations, especially on the ovaries in women.

In gum problems such as periodontitis, the seeds of the plant are ground and applied in one or two minutes, so it is part of many toothpastes.

In cosmetics it is used to make various creams and ointments, bath salts, shampoos and conditioners against hair loss, hair masks and others.

Use of fennel in cooking

In addition to all the benefits listed above, finnokio is an invaluable vegetable and spice in cooking. It is used for making various types of sauces, seasoning meats, fish, game, salads, appetizers. It is most recommended to use it raw, as its valuable ingredients are not lost. Ideal with lettuce, arugula, radicchio and avocado.

However, the heart of the plant is bitter. For this reason, it is removed, and this in turn has given rise to many recipes for its filling. Most often with smoked bacon or cheese and nuts.

The stems of the plant are seasoned with branded olive oils, in combination with other fragrant spices such as rosemary, basil or oregano.

In confectionery it is used to make mousses and creams combined with mint or thyme, as well as candies similar to our onions. In addition to healing effect, they have a great and refreshing taste.

Contraindications and harms from the consumption of finch

Finokio is a multifunctional vegetable, whose benefits and application should not be underestimated. In any case, its use will not hurt. On the contrary, it will help more than you expect because it is a natural aphrodisiac.

People who are allergic to celery, carrots or spices dill, coriander and cumin should be careful, as finnokioto can cause severe allergic reactions in people more sensitive to these plants.

Beta-blockers, heart disease, and anxiety medications can increase blood potassium levels. They should be consumed in moderation with foods high in potassium, such as finch, when taking beta-blockers. High levels of potassium in the body can pose a serious risk to people who have damaged kidneys or whose kidneys are not functioning properly. If the damaged kidneys cannot filter the excess potassium from the blood, this can be fatal.

It is important to know that consuming a single food because of its many benefits can not prevent a disease and improve overall health. The key is in the varied diet of fresh, quality and natural products.