Studies show that fennel reduces the body’s production of oxytocin and prostaglandin, two hormones that can cause painful periods. Fennel seed oil has also been shown to soothe the symptoms of colic.

This is a fabulous fennel recipe – it’s great with roast lamb or can be eaten as a vegetarian dish on its own. Preheat the oven to 170C/325F/Gas 3. Melt the butter in a casserole dish over a ...

Look for bright yellow-green seeds; dull brown-grey ones will be old. Fennel seeds are used in European, Middle Eastern, Indian and Chinese cuisines. They are ground into spice mixtures and added ...