What is Aniseed for and When is it Indicated?

Aniseed also called green anise, is a medicinal plant widely used to combat heartburn, indigestion, gas and belly pain. Its scientific name is  Pimpinella anisum  and it can be bought in markets, fairs, natural products stores and online stores.

This plant is about 50 cm high, is composed of leaves about 50 cm high, composed of lobed leaves, white flowers and nuts, containing only one seed. Its flavor is sweet and has an intense aroma.

In general, anise is confused with star anise, however, these are different plants, with a similar flavor.


What is Aniseed for?

Anise is indicated to treat various situations, mainly gastrointestinal, favoring digestion, reducing gas and bloating, and relieving spasms and cramps. It also generates other effects such as:

• Decrease headache and migraine;
• It helps regulate blood sugar, because it has a hypoglycemic effect;
• It helps control cholesterol because it has a lipid lowering effect;
• It has anticonvulsant effect;
• Decrease fluid retention;
• It improves appetite;
• It helps treat dysmenorrhea and calories during menopause;
• It helps calm cough with expectoration and the flu. 

In addition to this, this plant also helps stimulate milk production during breastfeeding.

Properties of Anise

Aniseed has diuretic, antifungal, antiviral, insect repellent, galactagogue, antispasmodic, carminative, analgesic, anticonvulsant, intestinal fermentation, antibacterial and muscle relaxant inhibitors.

Mode of Use 

The most used part of anise is mainly its seed, being possible to consume it in the form of tea, adding them in meals, in powder, or even in capsules. However, it is also possible to consume the stem of this plant. also be used as an essential oil.

1. Anise Tea

To prepare this tea you must place 1 teaspoon of anise in 1 cup and cover with boiling water. Cover & let for 3 to 5 minutes. Strain and drink next.

2. For Meals

Anise can also be used in sweet recipes, such as cakes and cookies. In addition to this, it can also be used in the preparation of breads, to make arepas, and even in seafood dishes.

3. Supplements and Essential Oil

Generally, green anise can be found in conjunction with other natural plants as a supplement to treat digestive problems or in essential oil. In these cases the ideal is to consult your treating doctor about the dose and how to use it, since there are several combinations.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects of anise can include nausea, vomiting and allergic reactions when consumed in excess. The essential oil is euphoric and can cause neurotoxicity.

Contraindications

Anise is contraindicated for people with duodenal ulcer, reflux, ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis, and should also be avoided by patients taking an iron supplement. Aniseed essential oil is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation, and also in cases of breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer.