Anise

Pimpinella anisum

Gastrointestinal tract (Gi), Respiratory

Gi – relaxes parasympathetic nervous system, colic, constipation (soak anise in H2O), flatulence, bloating, indigestion, stomach cramps, reduces acid, inhibits stomach ulcer formation, bad breath

Respiratory – antispasmodic – relaxes respiratory tract by easing bronchial spasms that cause asthma, whooping cough and bronchitis.

Use: seeds, essential oils

It is best to use it whole, without grinding.

Anise is also known for its estrogenic effect, therefore could be used as a stimulant of sexual drive and breast milk production. Anise essential oil proved its anti-fungal properties during research.

Anise is used in alcohol, cakes (13 times sweeter than sugar), cough syrups, lozenges, roasts, curries, tomato sauce, relish, marinades, dressings, vegetable soups (pinch), bread and other dough.