Fennel seeds, often referred to as saunf in Hindi, are the seeds of a flowering plant in the Foeniculum Vulgare family, which also includes the parsley, carrot, caraway, dill, and cumin families. The dried seeds of the white and green fennel plant, which has feathery leaves and yellow blossoms, are what make up this flavorful herb. It is a native plant to the Mediterranean areas and is also frequently planted elsewhere in the world close to the coast and along rivers. Apparently, India is the country that exports the most saunf. The flavour of the fennel plant is mild, licorice-like, sweet, and woody; it is made possible by the goodness of powerful essential oils.

Fennel seeds are also known as saunf or saumph in Hindi, sompu in Telugu, peruncirakam in Tamil, perunjirakam in Malayalam, and mauri in Bengali.
Fennel seeds are beneficial in treating digestive and respiratory conditions, improving vision, and curing menstrual difficulties due to its wide variety of nutrients and strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial capabilities.

Ayurvedic Uses

The essential therapeutic qualities of saunf, which are useful in calming the Tridoshas of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, are backed up by the Ayurveda medical system. The bitter, astringent-like, and sweet flavour of saunf has a cooling impact on the body. Steeping is the ideal method for obtaining the health advantages of saunf because, according to Ayurveda medicine, cooking diminishes the nutritional qualities of the food. Saunf effectively removes toxins from the body and serves as a powerful detoxifier. In Ayurvedic medicine, saunf is primarily used to treat digestive disorders. Its secretolytic qualities also help to treat respiratory problems and have an antispasmodic action that relieves abdominal cramps. The stomach, liver, brain, heart, kidney, and uterus are among the organs that saunf benefits.

Ayurvedic Indications Of Saunf
The holistic study of herbal remedies has extensively discussed the use of this priceless spice and has indicated its use in the following conditions, including Dhurnama kshayajit (helpful in treating chronic respiratory conditions like tuberculosis), Kshataksheenahita (heals injuries), Balya, and others (improve stamina and immunity) Shukrapaha, Ayrushya (a potent aphrodisiac), Pittasrdoshajit (useful in managing bleeding issues of Pitta origin), Agnikrut (strengthens gut health), Hrudya (excellent for cardiac wellness and a robust heart tonic), and Yonishoolant ( valuable in easing menstrual cramps). Also, it helps with worm infestation in Krumi, constipation in Baddhavit, vata issues in Anila, burning sensation in Daha, poor appetite in Aruchi, and vomiting in Chardi and Kasa (treats common cold and cough)

Nutritional Facts
The dried form of fennel, known as saunf, is a storehouse of essential nutrients. Low in calories and high in vitamin C, saunf seeds support the immune system, promote the creation of collagen, and act as a strong antioxidant that scavenges free radicals. Fennel seeds, which are high in manganese, stimulate metabolism, activate enzymes, control blood sugar, and build bones. In addition to these, significant amounts of selenium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron support skin health, regulate blood pressure, and treat anaemia.

Other Names: 

Raaziyaanaj, Shamaar, Shamra, Marui, Panmauri, Xiao hue xiang, Wooi heung, Hui xiang, Fennel, Sweet Fennel, Fenkel, Aneth doux, Fenouil, Gemeiner Fenchel, Fennekel, Fennichl, Fennkol, Variyali, Variari, Saunf , Badisopu, Doddasopu, Badiyan, Foeniculum vulgare Mill, Badishop, Raaziyaana, Raaziyaam, Saunf, Madhurika, Mishreya, Shatapushpa, Saunf, Badiyan, Anisun, Pimpinella Anisum