healthy body tips

Pimpinella anisum (anise, aniseed) 
Apiaceae
Pimpinella anisum is an annual herb belonging to the family Apiaceae;  it is related to other plants prized for their aromatic fruits, commonly called seeds, such as dill, cumin, caraway and fennel. Anise is believed to be Asian in origin but is currently found in Central and Southern Europe, Egypt, Russia, Cyprus, Syria and North America. Most commercial seed is imported from Turkey, followed by Spain and China.

#1. Anise has been used as a medicinal, culinary and a fragrance plant since ancient times. The Egyptians were reportedly the first to cultivate anise for use as a spice, and the Romans ate anise seed cakes at the conclusion of feasts to aid digestion.

#2. Today aniseed is used to flavor a variety of dishes, from soups, salads and baked goods to pepperoni, bologna and other meats. It can be added to curries, baked apples and cooked vegetables, including carrots, cabbage and beets. A tea can be made from the seeds and leaves.

#3. Commercially, anise oil is used to flavor cough syrups, chewing gum, ice cream, toothpaste, mouse bait and licorice-flavored candy, and is a primary ingredient in many alcoholic beverages and liqueurs, including anisette, ouzo and muscatel wine. Oil is also added to perfumes, tobacco, soaps and skin creams.

#4. The essential oil is reportedly antibacterial, antiviral, insecticidal, expectorant, antispasmodic, and has estrogenic effects. Many of these properties are due to the presence of anethole in the essential oil. Anise also has a long-standing folk reputation as an aphrodisiac. It is approved by the German Commission E to treat dyspeptic complaints and catarrh of the respiratory tract. Although anise has traditionally been used to encourage lactation, some sources don’t recommend this use due to possible toxicity to infants. Anise may also cause contact dermatosis or allergic reactions in some individuals.

#5. 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.

#6. 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.

#7. 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.

#8. 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.

#9. 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.