Hydroponics and Health Benefits of Fennel
Fennel, also known as Foeniculum vulagre, originated from the region of the Mediterranean. It is a mildly sweet herb and has feathery leaves. It is known to be a delicious addition to meals with both its greens and bulbs being edible and aromatic.
Hydroponics of Fennel
Hydroponic System
A handful of hydroponic systems can be employed to grow this herb, such as passive and aeroponic method, flood and drain method, drip system, and nutrient film technique.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures to grow fennel lie in the range of 60-to-70-degree Fahrenheit.
Nutrient Solution
The suggested pH range for this spice is from 6.4 to 6.8. Application of NPK fertilizer can ensure better results for plant height, seed yield, harvest index, and biological yield.
Nutritional Profile of Fennel
The following nutrients can be found in a serving of 100g of fennel herb.
Energy
The amount of energy attained from the specified serving is around 31Kcal. (FoodData Central, 2019)
Vitamins and Dietary Fibers
Fennels are rich in vitamins and dietary fibers. It consists of numerous vitamins, such as A, B, C, D, E, and K. The total dietary fiber content comes up to 3.1g. (FoodData Central, 2019)
Other Nutrients
This particular plant is one of the highest sources of sodium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. (FoodData Central, 2019)
ORAC Value
The total ORAC value of the fennel is 307 (4 grams or a pinch).
Health Benefits of Fennel
Medicinal Uses
Fennel is traditionally used in a number of medicines to treat different ailments related to endocrine, digestive, respiratory, and reproductive systems. It is also used by lactating mothers as a galactagogue agent. (Shamkant B. Badgujar, 2014)
Chemistry of Fennel
Stems and leaves of the fennel display a significant content of moisture. There are several phenolics present in it, such as neochlorogenic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid. (Shamkant B. Badgujar, 2014)
References
FoodData Central. (2019, April 1). Retrieved from US Department of Agriculture: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169385/nutrients
Shamkant B. Badgujar, V. V. (2014). Foeniculum vulgare Mill: A Review of Its Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Contemporary Application, and Toxicology. Biomed Res Int.