Our organic Sweet Fennel is distilled from the seeds of Foeniculum vulgare, a tall biennial herb that since ancient times has been associated with longevity, strength and courage.[1] Indigenous to Mediterranean countries, the seeds were carried by both Roman soldiers and devout pilgrims during long journeys.[2] Both Tisserand and Peter and Kate Damien concur that Fennel’s properties make it an ideal addition to topical preparations, particularly in massage for local application to the abdomen and lower back.[3],[4] Minimal application and a low dilution ratio of 1% are recommended for this type of massage. 

The molecular composition of organic Sweet Fennel is surprisingly diverse, featuring (E)-anethole, limonene, α- and ß-pinenes, estragole, α-phellandrene, and less than 1.0 percent of many other constituents, including fenchone (a ketone).[5] Highly etheric oils like Sweet Fennel are extremely "drying" and as such, may be useful in massage for damp skin, helping to improve the appearance of puffiness. It is also suitable for chest rubs, oily and mature skin preparations, and in diffusers.