7 Spices With Surprising Health Benefits

Fennel

Fennel dates back to the times of the Ancient Greeks. The fennel plant is considered a weed in the United States and can be found growing in abundance in fields and along the roadside in many areas of the world. Fennel is high in calcium, which is essential for the healthy growth of bones and teeth and rich in niacin, which helps to turn food into energy. Fennel is also high in vitamin C, which helps to promote a strong immune system and is an excellent source of dietary fiber and iron, which help to keep your metabolism and digestive tract running smoothly.

This peppery plant can be served raw or cooked, but the highest nutritional value comes from consuming fennel leaves raw in salads. It can also be steamed with other greens or used in stir fry and fish recipes. Fennel is also a natural appetite suppressant and can also help detoxify and exfoliate the skin.