Fennel seeds Aromatic and sweet, somewhat minty, and often fermented Ancient Indians used fennel seeds as a condiment and culinary spice. In GREECE, It was symbol of success. In ROME the young fennel shoots were used as food. pliny considered it good for improved vision. culpeper reccommends it as an antidote for poison. In INDIA, it thrives in the sunny, limey, well-drained loam, the pleasingly warm sweet smell and the clear appearance are clear indications of how well indian fennel retains its exclusive quality even after drying.