From the Viva Cryo archive. Originally published 2020-07-15. This article preserves the original historical text. For current treatment information, book a consultation.
When I was a kid, I ate and drank anything I wanted. From cookies to pasta and burgers, I ate anything and everything and didn’t gain a single pound. Then I turned 30. Suddenly, I began having indigestion, pain and bloating after every meal.. no matter what I ate! I also started to notice some weight creep on, which was strange because at that point I had been a strict vegan for years. Many google searches into my digestion issues and natural herbs that can help led me to ponder onto the benefits of fennel. I decided to buy some of this glorious plant and braised it. It not only was quite tasty, but helped to decrease bloating. Fennel has since become one of my staple foods.
One day, I was having digestion issues (as in I was feeling bloated).. and I didn’t have any fennel on hand. I was getting ready to attend an event that evening so I needed to look svelte in the slinky dress chosen for that night. I would have gone to the store, but by that point I was in rollers and only half of my make-up was on. I was beside myself. So, in my haste, I ran to the kitchen and looked through my cabinets, one by one pulling out different herbs and seeds and saw the fennel seeds in the back of my cupboard. Normally, I like to season my food with it, but I took a small handful and boiled them…daring to have a bit of hope it would work like fresh fennel. I drank my new concoction and found it gave more relief than just eating the fennel plant alone. Now I drink fennel seed water before I attend any event or whenever I feel sluggish, and it always relieves bloating, an upset stomach and has flattened my stomach over time. Granted Fennel seeds works for me, but I want to be clear that every person’s body is different and not everyone may have the same results I have.
Over the years, I have perfected the recipe. I have added aloe water for quicker impact and lime/lemon for taste. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
2 tbsp fennel seeds
1 lemon slice
1 lime, juiced
1 oz George’s aloe water
11 oz water
Directions:
Boil fennel seeds on low for 10-15 minutes. Drain in a bowl and let cool.
Juice one whole lime.
Cut a single lemon slice.
Once the fennel seed water has cooled, add the aloe water, lime juice and the lemon slice.
You can always add honey/agave for sweetness.
Enjoy!