Sanskrit Name:Śatapūṣpā
Devanagari Name:शतपुष्पा
English Name: Small Fennel, Black Cumin
Description:
Shatpushpa (शतपुष्पा), commonly known as Fennel and botanically Foeniculum vulgare, is a well-known Ayurvedic herb valued for its carminative, digestive, and galactagogue (milk-producing) properties. In Sanskrit, Shatpushpa means “a hundred flowers,” referring to its umbrella-shaped flowering pattern.
It is commonly used to relieve digestive discomfort, bloating, gas, and colic, especially in children and postpartum women. In Ayurveda, it is also recommended for improving lactation, regulating menstrual cycles, and balancing Vata and Pitta doshas.
Shatpushpa has a sweet, slightly bitter taste (madhura-tikta rasa) and cooling potency (shita virya), making it useful in conditions of excess heat, such as acidity or inflammation.Black Cumin has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Egypt and India, dating back centuries. It is said that physicians serving Egyptian pharaohs utilized Black Cumin as a universal remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues, headaches, dental pain, colds, and infections.
In culinary practices across different cultures, the seeds are incorporated into dishes for their nutty flavor. Additionally, this herb is recognized for its carminative properties, making it beneficial in addressing respiratory issues and skin ailments.
Benefits:
Shatpushpa (Fennel) offers a wide range of health benefits. It is primarily known for its ability to support digestion, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. Its carminative properties help in promoting healthy gut function and relieving colic, especially in infants. Additionally, it is highly effective as a galactagogue, stimulating milk production in nursing mothers. Shatpushpa also helps regulate menstrual cycles, alleviating menstrual cramps and promoting overall reproductive health. It has cooling properties, making it useful for managing excess heat in the body, such as in conditions like acidity or inflammatory disorders. Furthermore, its antioxidants contribute to detoxification, improve skin health, and offer anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a versatile herb for maintaining overall well-being.
Black Cumin is recommended for cough and bronchial asthma. It is known to prevent dental caries. The herb has analgesic properties, which can depress the central nervous system.Black Cumin aids digestion and relieves flatulence.
Medical Conditions(Relief):
Shatpushpa (Fennel) is beneficial for various medical conditions. It aids in managing digestive disorders such as indigestion, bloating, and gas by promoting smooth digestion and acting as a carminative. It is particularly helpful in relieving colic in infants and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults. The herb also supports lactation, making it ideal for breastfeeding mothers who face issues with milk production. For menstrual irregularities and dysmenorrhea (painful periods), Shatpushpa helps regulate cycles and ease menstrual cramps. Its cooling properties assist in managing conditions caused by excess heat, such as acid reflux and gastritis, by balancing the body’s internal temperature. Additionally, Shatpushpa’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties aid in managing conditions like arthritis, skin inflammation, and other inflammatory diseases, promoting overall health and well-being.
Medical Conditions(Avoid):
Shatpushpa (Fennel) should be avoided in certain medical conditions due to its cooling and stimulating properties. It is generally not recommended for individuals with hypotension (low blood pressure) as it may further lower blood pressure. Additionally, it should be used with caution or avoided by those with allergies to plants in the Apiaceae family (such as celery, parsley, or caraway). Since it can stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, should avoid Shatpushpa to prevent any potential risk of miscarriage. It may also interact with medications for blood sugar regulation, so individuals with diabetes should consult a healthcare provider before using it. Those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or severe acid reflux may find fennel aggravates their symptoms due to its mild stimulatory effects. Always consult a healthcare professional if unsure about its use in these conditions.