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Anise (Pimpinella anisum) |
 Anise originates from Egypt
and the Middle East as an annual herb, growing to around 50cm and has been in use since the fourteenth century. It has new leaves that are rounded and older leaves are deeply serrated and feathery with stems that are grooved and brittle. White flattened flower umbels appear in summer and followed by small seeds (aniseed) which is the
true taste of licorice its oils are distilled into the flavoring for
licorice candy ( the licorice herb has a different taste )
Cultivation
Plant seeds in a well-drained light soiled sunny area in spring and
again in autumn in mild areas. Add lime if soil
is acidly and water well in dry weather. Anise and coriander
are good companion plants.
Health Benefits and uses of Anise
- Ground aniseed is used to flavor confectionery, breads, cakes,
vegetables, stewed fruits, cheese dishes, liqueurs and can be used in salads
- Anise tea was traditionally used as an aid to digestion
- is a favorite flavoring for cough mixtures and throat lozenges
- Ancient Romans served cake
containing aniseed at the end of large banquets, especially traditional weddings, to aid digestion and
relieve flatulence
- Anise like fennel contains anethole and is known to be a phytoestrogen
- relieve toothache
- essential oil to treat lice and scabies
- can be made into a liquid scent and used for hunting and fishing
- used also against insects especially when mixed with Sassafras and Carbolic oil
- also is a antiseptic, antispasmodic, soporific
Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Anise
- occasional allergic reactions of
the skin with topical use
- respiratory or gastrointestinal tract with internal use
- Before taking Anise, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Pure Anise oil should not be taken by mouth
- Seizures (uncontrolled shaking) and pulmonary edema
(water in the lungs) have occurred with as little as 1 to 5 milliliters
of Anise oil
- stop using immediatly if you have any of the following side effects Breathing problems or tightness in your throat or chest, Chest pain, Skin hives, rash, itchy or swollen skin
- may also cause nausea (upset stomach) or vomiting
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