Benefits of Anise

Benefits of Anise

Anise is a small flower, yellowish in color with white petal umbel. It is native in the Mediterranean region and Egypt. The herb is oblong in shape and can be used for both medicinal and culinary applications. In the 14th century, anise was very popular and was used to treat coughs. Here are common benefits of using anise:

1. Enhances digestion

The herb is known to aid in the process of digestion. In fact, the herb is very popular and is grown in almost all regions of the world. Crushed anise seeds do not only aid in digestion but also stop the gassiness that is sometimes brought by it. Consuming anise herbs is definitely the best way to end your meals.

2. Medicinal purposes

Anise is also used as mild antimicrobial and expectorant which is why it has become very common nowadays. Its seeds have essential oil that has been proven to react with secretory cells in the respiratory tract. In addition, anise has a licorice flavor which acts as an added bonus to the medicinal benefits.

3. Aromatic therapy

It was widely used by the Romans to make oil, mouth fresheners, and soaps. Anise is also a popular herb for aromatic treatment. Its seed are grounded and added to mouthwashes and toothpastes to aid in flavoring.

4. Cooking and Liqueurs

It is a great culinary herb used extensively in liqueurs and cooking. In addition, due to its flavored scent, many people use it in aroma therapy as herbal fragrance.

5. Anti-hysteric and Anti-epileptic

Since anise oil is known to have sedative and narcotic effects, it can be used to calm down epileptic and hysteric attacks by slowing down respiration, circulation, and nervous response. However, it should only be administered in lower dosages to ensure it doesn’t have adverse effects.

The anise herb has its disadvantages as well, when taken in high dosages; the narcotic effect slows down circulation and respiration. In addition, it is known to be poisonous to certain birds and animals and hence children should only be given small dosages.

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