Aniseed, also called Anise (pronounced “ann-is”) is the fruit or seed from the flowering plant, Pimpinella anisum. This herbaceous, flowering annual plant is a member of the parsley family, and related to caraway, dill, cumin, and fennel.
Aniseed is native to the eastern Mediterranean region and has been highly valued since ancient times. Aniseeds have a distinctive licorice-like flavor and have been used for medicinal purposes throughout history, especially as a digestive aid. The seeds are also used whole or crushed as a flavoring in various foods, from baked goods and sweets to liquours such as the infamous absinthe or the Greek liqueur ouzo.
Aniseed has numerous purported medicinal properties, mainly as a digestive aid. In India, the seeds are often chewed after a meal, both as a digestive and to sweeten the breath. Anise oil has also been used in treating flatulence and colic in children.
Anise “tea” – which can be made from steeping anise leaves in boiling water for about 5-6 minutes, straining out the leaves and adding honey to taste – may be effective for digestion, sore throat and cough. It is worth noting that in 2003, the FDA issued an advisory against the use of Star Anise teas, especially for children.
Aniseed has numerous purported medicinal properties, mainly as a digestive aid. In India, the seeds are often chewed after a meal, both as a digestive and to sweeten the breath. Anise oil has also been used in treating flatulence and colic in children.
Anise “tea” – which can be made from steeping anise leaves in boiling water for about 5-6 minutes, straining out the leaves and adding honey to taste – may be effective for digestion, sore throat and cough. It is worth noting that in 2003, the FDA issued an advisory against the use of Star Anise teas, especially for children.
