Saunf,
or fennel seeds, are the ultimate digestives that most households consume after a hearty meal. Also being a staple in the Indian kitchens for decades, saunf is a one-stop cure for all kinds of digestion-related issues. However, trying it in a new form - soaked overnight and consumed as sauf water every morning, has more benefits than you can imagine. According to experts, drinking saunf water can bring in a plethora of health benefits – apart from regulating digestion – which include healthy skin, hormonal balance, and even hydration – especially in winter.
Why should you drink saunf water daily?
Loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins A, B, and C, along with calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and antioxidants and dietary fibre, fennel seeds help protect your body from oxidative stress and promote a healthy gut. And so, drinking saunf water every morning, on an empty stomach, can help you notice a few changes, right after four weeks:
Improved digestion
In winter, most people tend to eat more and suffer from chronic digestive-related issues. And so, soaking in fennel seeds overnight, boiling them, and having their hot drink helps your stomach produce digestive juices and enzymes – thereby reducing issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion. Drinking saunf water regularly helps your stomach work better and makes it easier for your body to absorb nutrients from food.
Speeds up weight loss
Fennel seeds are a powerhouse of dietary fibre, which aid in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. Saunf water curbs unnecessary cravings and prevents overeating. Additionally, fennel seeds are also rich in diuretic properties that flush out toxins and excess fluids from your body, contributing to weight loss.
Aids natural detoxification
Saunf water is a natural diuretic – helping you get rid of extra fluids and waste. It keeps your kidneys healthy by naturally removing toxins and leading to better health.
Balances hormones
Fennel seeds are packed with phytoestrogens - plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in your body. These compounds regulate hormonal balance – both in men and women - and alleviate symptoms like irregular periods and menopausal symptoms, apart from supporting overall reproductive health.
Strengthen immunity
Saunf water boosts your immune system since it is rich in vitamin C and other important nutrients. Vitamin C is well-known for helping your body fight off infections, while the other nutrients in fennel seeds also support overall immune health. Drinking saunf water regularly can help strengthen your body's defences, making it easier to stay healthy and fight off illnesses.
Gives a glowing skin
Since saunf is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, it helps make your skin healthier and glowing – especially in cold weather where dryness happens. Experts say antioxidants contribute to protecting your skin from damaging free radicals and provide nourishment. It also helps tighten your skin and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Improves heart and respiratory health
Saunf water contributes to your heart health as it helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Since it is loaded with potassium, fennel seeds regulate blood pressure, while dietary fibre can bring down bad cholesterol. Also, antioxidants protect blood vessels from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of heart disease. Full of expectorant properties, fennel also clears mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tract, reducing symptoms of throat irritation and cough.