Benefits of Anise
September 22, 2009
The seeds, leaves, roots and bulb of anise are used by herbalists for treating several physical ailments. The botanical name of anise is Pimpinella anisum.
This aromatic herb is also used in aromatherapy for healing illnesses. This annual herbaceous plant is believed to be the native of Asia Minor, Greece and Egypt. Anise is popular both as a culinary and medicinal herb in Asia and Europe.
Anise contains vitamins B1, B2, C, iron, potassium, sulfur and phosphorous.
Cures gastrointestinal problems
Anise improves appetite. It stimulates production of digestive juices. Tea made from anise seeds is used for healing flatulence. This mild herb is safe for children. Stomach upsets could be treated with anise seed tea. Anise can be consumed to reduce colic pain. To make anise seed tea at home, pour one cup of boiling water over two spoons of anise seed, and steep for about fifteen minutes.
Remedy for respiratory problems
Drinking anise seed tea could help to cure respiratory illnesses. The phytochemicals found in anise could remove congestions in the lungs and sinus. Tea made with anise seeds or anise seed decoction, made by boiling anise seed in water, can be used as an expectorant. It is effective in treating common coughs, cold, bronchitis, influenza, sinusitis and pneumonia.
Improves oral health
Anise seeds are used as breath freshener. People suffering from problems of bad breath could benefit by drinking anise seed tea or rinsing the mouth with anise seed tea. Anise seeds are often used in making mouthwashes and toothpastes.
Increases milk secretion
To increase milk production, lactating mothers could consume anise seed tea regularly. Anethole, a type of plant compound, found in anise seeds promotes milk secretion by increasing the level of prolactin.
Although anise seeds do not produce any noticeable side effect when taken in moderation, people suffering from high blood pressure should avoid anise seeds. Moreover, in rare instances sensitivity to anise has been observed in individuals. Sensitivity to anise might cause skin inflammation, acne and rosacea.
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