Anise is a flower plant from the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. In the following story, we will discussing the health benefits of anise seeds in detail.
Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.
Anise seed is known by various names like anise, aniseed, anise plant, common anise, and sweet cumin. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is an annual aromatic Mediterranean herb with numerous benefits. It is a grayish brown-colored, oval-shaped seed with a sweet aroma. It is popularly used in aromatherapy and as an effective herbal medicine.
Health Benefits
The seeds are used in a variety of different ways; as a spice and fragrance. Over centuries, various cultures have used the seeds in the preparations of alcohols, liqueurs, dairy products, gelatin, puddings, candies, soaps, creams, and perfumes.
Digestive Health
The seed is known to be very beneficial for your digestive health. It cures digestive disorders, ensures its proper functioning, and can help with common health concerns like nausea, pain in abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, gastritis, and spasmodic flatulence. It also helps in regular and normal bowel movements. One of the best health benefits is that it improves appetite and supplements proper digestion.
Respiratory Health
The seeds act as a perfect expectorant in the body. It helps loosen phlegm in the throat and lungs. Moreover it is also effective herb for asthma treatment. It is a popular ingredient in many cough medications, is useful in curing various respiratory tract problems, and can give relief from bronchitis, sinusitis, influenza, and pneumonia.
Oral Health
As the seeds are antimicrobial and antibacterial, it makes a perfect ingredient for an effective mouthwash. It helps fight bad breath problem and oral inflammation as well. These seeds are popularly used in homemade mouthwash recipes.
Skin Health
External uses of anise skin include curing various skin disorders. It is effective in treating scabies and lice. It is one of the best antiseptic, hence, readily cures various infections. It is also used for poorly healing wounds. Anise essential oil is effective in destroying the insects.
Babies Health
The seeds can help treat acute abdominal pain and hiccups in babies. It provides cure to various digestive ailments in babies. Moreover, it is known to increase milk production in lactating mothers.
Other Health Benefits
The seeds help increase libido in men and women. It also aids in reducing menstruation pain and inducing menstruation. Anise oil is beneficial in treating problems like impotence, cardiovascular function, and frigidity.
Culinary Uses
The seeds are widely used to enhance the flavors of cooked fruit dishes, cheese, eggs, and a lot of baked products. Famous for its taste that resembles that of licorice, these seeds are commonly used as an artificial flavoring for licorice. It is also used in processed foods, including the pet foods. It is commonly confused with other spices and herbs.
While there are numerous benefits, remember that it might also lead to some side effects. Excess usage must be avoided, especially in babies. Excess dosage might lead to dehydration. Other problems include skin allergies like rosacea and acne. Make sure you do not use it to treat serious health problems without consulting your doctor.