What Is Saunf Water (Fennel Water)?
Saunf, also known as fennel, is a culinary herb and medicinal plant that has been prevalent in Indian cooking for decades. Many prefer eating these seeds as a mouth freshener after a hearty meal as it aids in digestion. Over the years, Saunf’s consumption has evolved from just culinary uses into various creative recipes. Saunf Water is one such creation and is packed with various benefits.
The Nutritional Profile of Fennel Seeds (Saunf)
Saunf seeds are a powerhouse of various vital nutrients. These seeds are low on calories and abundant in:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Calcium
- Potassium and selenium
According to USDA data, fennel seeds are one of the highest plant sources of potassium, sodium, phosphorus, and calcium. These seeds are richest in dietary fibre and vitamins, relative to human needs. These seeds also comprise more than 87 compounds, including polyphenol antioxidants such as rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and apigenin.
Saunf Water Benefits
There are many benefits of Saunf Water. This remedial drink:
- Helps in weight loss
- Improves digestion
- Regulates blood pressure
- Purifies blood and skin
- Reduces bloating and gas
- Improves eyesight
- Combats respiratory ailments
- Prevents forming of cancer cells
Saunf Water for Weight Loss
Fennel is also known as an appetite suppressant. So, when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, fennel seeds for weight loss can prove to be extremely helpful. These seeds have diuretic properties that flush out toxins from the body and improve metabolism.
They are also a rich source of vitamin B-6, an important player in energy metabolism. It breaks down carbohydrates and proteins into glucose and amino acids. Consumption of saunf water or tea keeps one fuller for longer, thereby lowering overall calorie intake.
Saunf Water Benefits for Skin
In addition to weight loss, Saunf water is beneficial for the skin. Daily consumption of saunf water can do wonders for your skin.
Fennel seeds have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that protect skin from free radical damage that ultimately improves skin cell longevity. Additionally, minerals such as potassium, selenium, and zinc found in saunf help in treating skin ailments such as acne, rashes, and dryness.
How to Make Saunf Water?
Now since we are aware of various saunf water benefits, the next step would be to give this power drink a try. Saunf water preparation just needs three easy steps:
Step 1: Add two glasses of water to a jug and soak one tbsp saunf in it. Let it soak overnight.
Step 2: In the morning, boil one glass of saunf water. Do not over boil the water, as it can impact its nutrients.
Step 3: Strain the water after a few minutes and drink it on an empty stomach. Cover the pan with a lid and leave it as it is for 15 minutes.
You can have another glass of saunf water anytime during the day.
Pro Tip: You can also consume saunf in a churan form and drink with a glass of lukewarm water after your meal. To make jeera and saunf churan, dry roast saunf, ajwain, jeera, and methi seeds on a low flame. Cooldown the ingredients and blitz them in a blender. Add black salt and a little bit of sugar to this churan, and consume with lukewarm water for better digestion and weight loss.
Potential Side Effects of Saunf Water
Fennel seeds have been in use for a long time without any documented serious adverse effects. Various studies indicate that fennel seeds possess diverse health benefits and are an important constituent of food.
But excessive consumption of fennel seeds can lead to certain side effects. While there aren’t many studies on the potential side effects of saunf, some people do experience skin inflammation due to the excessive use of saunf water.
Additionally, the consumption of fennel seeds in the form of supplements or extract can also be harmful. Some people might experience allergic reactions or symptoms such as stomach pain or vomiting if they consume high amounts of fennel in the form of oil, supplement or extract.
Hence, it is advisable to consume fennel seeds in their natural form — dried or bulb to reap maximum benefits of saunf water.
