Fennel was said to give longevity, strength and courage. For this reason, the ancient Greeks ate the seeds. Athletes also ate the seeds to help control their weight while training for the Olympics. The seeds were chewed by the Roman soldiers on long marches, when they did not have time to stop and cook a meal. Devout Christians chewed them to satisfy the cravings of hunger on fasting days. Fennel oil is recommended in skin care preparation for the treatment of oily and mature skin types.