Botanical name: Pimpinella anisum
Botanical family: Umbelliferae
Note: Middle
Part of plant used: Seeds
Origin: Originating in the Middle East, Aniseed is now found in parts of North Africa as well as the USA.
Description: Aniseed has a liquorice aroma and can be quite sharp, yet warming. Cold temperatures tend to solidify the oil so it may need to be warmed before use.
History: Aniseed was a common ingredient for baking bread in ancient Egyptian times and was known as an aphrodisiac by the Romans. Many ancient cultures recognized it’s carminative properties on the digestion as well as it’s cleansing ability for the breath. In more recent times, Aniseed is used in toothpaste and in the liqueur Pernod.
Properties and Indications:
- Stimulating and invigorating
- Carminative – excellent for digestive problems such as colic and flatulence
- Can help if feeling nauseous
- Tonic for the cardiovascular system
- Useful for respiratory problems such as asthma
- Helpful for colds and flu
- Can ease menstrual pains
- Good for hangovers
- Headaches and migraines
Contra-indications:
- Use very sparingly as Aniseed is a very potent oil
- Never to be used in pregnancy
- Do not use on children
Blending:
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