Foeniculum vulgare, or fennel, is an herb that was originally cultivated in the Mediterranean and has a flavor that is similar to licorice. Like many herbs, fennel contains phosphorous, zinc, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, nutrients that have long been known to be beneficial for healthy skin. Diana Howard says, "Many botanical extracts have been studied for their ability to inhibit tyrosinase. These include kiwi, mulberry, bearberry, and, more recently, giant fennel. While the precise mechanism of how they work is not clearly understood, studies have been conducted looking at the flavonoid components of these plants. Many of these botanical extracts may work on two fronts; not only do they inhibit the tyrosinase enzyme, but they also compete with the enzyme's substrate." ReferenceOrganic Facts. (n.d.). Health Benefits of Fennel.Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.