Can fennel cure stomach diseases?
Generally speaking, fennel is a common herb or spice often used to relieve digestive discomfort. Whether fennel can be used to treat stomach diseases depends on the specific condition of the illness. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Fennel has a warm nature and a pungent taste, capable of dispersing cold, regulating qi, harmonizing the stomach, and relieving pain. If the stomach disease is caused by cold pathogens invading the stomach or cold-type stagnation of stomach qi, manifesting as cold pain in the stomach, preference for warmth and pressure, abdominal distension, belching, and other symptoms that are relatively mild, appropriate use of fennel may help alleviate discomfort. It can be taken by decocting in water or adding as a seasoning to food, using its warming property to regulate stomach qi and relieve spasms and pain caused by cold in the stomach.
If the stomach disease is caused by invasion of heat pathogens, peptic ulcer, gastric bleeding, or accompanied by significant acid reflux and a burning sensation, fennel is not suitable for treatment. Its warming nature may worsen symptoms of heat syndromes and cannot repair gastric mucosal damage or inhibit excessive gastric acid secretion. Improper use may delay treatment and even exacerbate symptoms.
When using fennel to regulate the stomach, the dosage should be controlled, as excessive amounts may irritate the gastric mucosa, causing gastric burning or discomfort. If symptoms of stomach disease persistently worsen or complications such as vomiting blood or black stool occur, prompt medical attention is necessary. Fennel should only be used as an adjunctive measure and cannot replace standard medical treatment. Fennel must be stored dry to prevent mildew, and spoiled fennel must not be used.