Anise is one of the oldest known spice plants. It grows in the Mediterranean region, Spain, West Asia, Mexico, Egypt and the Middle East
Anise contains chemicals that may have estrogen-like effects. It reduces swelling and helps fight insects.
People use anise to treat indigestion, constipation, migraines, menopausal symptoms, and many other ailments.
Uses:
- Some clinical research has shown that taking a specific product containing anise, saffron, and celery seeds reduces the intensity and duration of pain during the menstrual cycle.
- Research suggests that drinking one cup of tea containing anise, chamomile, saffron, fennel, caraway, licorice, cardamom, and black seed reduces coughing and discomfort during sleep in people with allergic asthma.
- Research suggests that an herbal drink containing anise, fennel, and bilberry improves constipation in some people
- Research suggests that applying a spray containing anise oil, coconut oil, and ylang-ylang oil to the scalp helps get rid of head lice.
- Studies suggest that people with irritable bowel syndrome may benefit from anise oil
- Some studies have indicated that people who suffer from migraines may benefit from anise oil cream applied to the forehead and behind the ears.
- Some studies indicate that anise may be effective in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis
- Helps promote healthy sleep
Side effects
- Anise powder and oil are likely safe when used as a medication for up to 4 weeks, but few people have experienced allergic reactions when taking it.
- Anise may cause allergic reactions in some people who are allergic to other plants similar to anise. Which include asparagus, caraway, celery, coriander and cumin.
- Anise may act like estrogen. If you suffer from any condition that may be exacerbated by exposure to estrogen, Anise should not be used excessively, as this includes breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and others.
- Anise may lower blood sugar levels. This may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using anise at least seventy weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Anise is considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women when used as part of a normal diet. However, you should consult a doctor if you want to use it in larger quantities.
Drug interactions:
- Taking anise with birth control pills may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Birth control pills contain estrogen. Anise may have some of the same estrogen effects but not as strong as the estrogen found in the pills
- Anise may reduce the effectiveness of the drug tamoxifen, which is used to treat and prevent some types of cancers that are affected by estrogen levels.
References:
https://www.webmed.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-582/anise
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/anise.htm
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-anise-88608