Simple Seed Solved Gas Problem

Fennel seeds were known to ancient Chinese healers as a “wind-dispelling herb.” That’s a nice way of saying fennel was good for flatulence. Many readers also report that this and other herbs have helpful properties when it comes to digestive function.

Q. After many years of having very intense gas, a friend advised the use of fennel seeds. I found the gas intensity was reduced considerably. After a pinch of the seeds, most of the discomfort is gone, sometimes for several days.

A. Fennel seeds have been used for centuries to ease indigestion and flatulence, though the mechanism remains mysterious. We’re pleased to learn it was so effective for you.

Fennel is a popular approach, whether as seeds or in tea. Here’s a testimonial from another reader:

“I’ve found fennel very useful for preventing gas. I’ve also used both activated charcoal and chlorophyll to avoid the bad odor of gas (and they may help prevent the gas itself sometimes). The thing is, when you use charcoal it may also absorb any medications or supplements you take within several hours.”

If you would like to see a video of other solutions to flatulence here is our video on this common problem:

One of our favorite stories on fennel is this one:

A physician’s wife wrote to tell us that her husband’s serious gas problem was solved when he followed this advice from a Hungarian masseuse: 1 tablespoon of flaxseed powder in a glass of juice twice a day, together with two capsules of fennel seed two or three times a day.

Others have reported good results following a cup of fennel seed tea two or three times daily. To make fennel seed tea, slightly crush a teaspoon of fennel seeds and pour boiling water over them.

Other Herbs to Counter Flatulence:

Fennel is not the only herb that people may find helpful:

“Asafetida is a common spice used in vegetarian Indian cooking that imparts a wonderful garlic-like flavor to dishes that feature lentils and legumes. It also is famous for eliminating gas problems and has long been known to be a potent immune booster. A little bit goes a long way; 1/8th of a teaspoon for a cup of dried lentils is a common proportion. Asafetida must be cooked with the beans or lentils in order to turn into its wonderful deliciousness. In its raw powdery form, however, it stinks terribly so I keep mine sealed in a zippered plastic bag.”

A Different Diet:

Others recommend a change in diet:

“I went on a strict low carb diet a year ago and mysteriously all flatulence disappeared. Eat any highly refined product or sugar containing food and “boom” . . . the gas returns. The rule: “Don’t eat (refined) white stuff” or potatoes or rice, etc.”

In the same vein, some people report that eating a gluten-free diet (quite a challenge, but feasible) has eliminated their flatulence.

We discuss gas and ways to track dietary effects in our Guide to Digestive Disorders.

Revised: June 5, 2016