The fennel plant is an ancient one, mentioned in the Bible and other sacred texts. It's a hardy perennial that grows well in India, where it's been used for centuries to add flavor to food and as a medicine. Fennel seeds are the dried fruit of the fennel plant. They have a sweet, anise-like flavor and are used as a spice in many cuisines around the world. Fennel seeds can be used whole or ground. They are added to recipes for their flavor, but also because they are thought to aid in digestion. Fennel tea is a popular digestive remedy, and fennel seeds are often chewed after a meal to freshen breath and help with indigestion. Fennel is a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.