Anise Seed Benefits by Bonnie Eagle

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Anise seed is known by various names like anise, aniseed, anise plant, common anise, hua-hsian and sweet cumin. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is an annual aromatic Mediterranean herb with numerous benefits. Anise seed is a grayish brown colored, oval shaped seed with a sweet aroma. It is popularly used in aromatherapy and as an effective herbal medicine. Let us know about the various anise seed benefits in detail.

Anise Seed Health Benefits

Anise Seed Benefits: Digestive Health
Anise seed is known to be very beneficial for your digestive health. It cures digestive disorders and ensures proper functioning of the digestive system. Common problems like nausea, pain in abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, gastritis and spasmodic flatulence are all known to be treated by anise seeds. It also helps in regular and normal bowel movements. One of the best health benefits of anise seed is that it improves appetite and supplements proper digestion.

Anise Seed Benefits: Respiratory Health
Anise seed acts a perfect expectorant in the body. It helps loose phlegm in the throat and lungs. Moreover it is also effective herb for asthma treatment. It is a popular ingredient in many cough medications. Anise seeds are also useful in curing other respiratory tract problems. Bronchitis, sinusitis, influenza and pneumonia can also be cured with help of anise seeds.

Anise Seed Benefits: Oral Health
One of the health benefits of anise seed is that it helps maintain your oral health. Its antimicrobial., antibacterial make it a perfect ingredient of an effective mouthwash. It helps fight bad breath problem and oral inflammation as well. Anise seeds are popularly used in homemade mouthwash recipes. A mild infusion of anise seeds makes a good eyewash.

Anise Seed Benefits: Skin Health
External uses of anise skin include curing various skin disorders. It is effective in treating scabies and lice. It is one of the best antiseptic, hence, readily cures various infections. It is also used for poorly healing wounds. Anise essential oil is effective in destroying the insects.

Anise Seed Benefits: Babies Health
Use of anise seed for babies is also very popular. It treats acute abdominal pain and hiccups in babies. It helps cure various digestive ailments in babies. Moreover it is known to increase milk production in lactating mothers.

Anise Seed Benefits: Other Health Benefits
Anise seeds helps increase libido in men and women. It also helps reduce menstruation pain and helps induce menstruation. Anise oil is beneficial in treating problems like impotence, cardiovascular function and frigidity.

Anise Seed Benefits: Culinary Uses
Anise seeds are very widely used in preparing various cuisines. It is popularly used in liqueurs. Anise seeds enhance the taste of cooked fruit dishes, cheese, eggs and lot of baked products. Famous for its taste that resembles to that of licorice, anise seeds are commonly used as an artificial flavoring for licorice. It is also used in processed foods, including the pet foods. It is commonly confused with other spices and herbs. Anise seeds add a unique flavor to the food recipes.

While there are numerous anise seed benefits, remember that it might also lead to some side effects. Excess usage must be avoided, especially in babies. Excess dosage might lead to dehydration. Other problems include skin allergies like rosacea and acne. Make sure you do not use it to treat serious health problems without consulting your doctor.