Hi David, I was wondering about fennel. Something caught my eye when you said Dr. John Bastyr suggested the fennel seed inhibits acetylcholinesterase. The MM states it is useful for mild upper respiratory tract congestion. I am curious: is fennel similar in the mechanism of action to ipratropium bromide, as it is an acetylcholine antagonist , blocking (muscarinic) cholinergic receptors, as this will decrease production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) resulting in decreasing contraction of airway smooth muscles? I am curious if I am seeing this correctly or not? Am I on track, or excited over my own misunderstanding? If so, could fennel be used in combination with bronchodilator-like herbs (such as black seed oil for example) in an effort to herbally mimic the effects of 'duoneb' or 'combivent' of albuterol and ipratroprioum together? Thank you, Jen F.

While Fennel may have mild antiacetylcholinesyetase activity, the effect is mild and not comparable to something like Ipratropium bromide. It is unlikely to decrease cGMP in any significant way.

Darn it. I thought I might have been on to something. :) Thank you, sir!