Anise seed (Pimpinella anisum), also known simply as anise, is a sweet, licorice-flavored fruit from an annual herb in the Apiaceae (Parsley) family, native to the eastern Mediterranean, western Asia, and North Africa. Its pungent, warming, and drying energetics make it a versatile ingredient in both culinary and medicinal contexts. The seeds, the most commonly used part, enhance dishes like Italian biscotti, Mexican bizcochitos, and beverages such as Greek ouzo and Middle Eastern arak, while historically improving the taste of medicines. Anise’s actions include antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, galactagogue, parturient, stimulant, stomachic, and tonic properties, with modern research supporting its potential to alleviate depression, soothe digestive issues like indigestion and constipation, and combat certain bacteria and fungi due to its anethole content.
While safe in culinary amounts, precautions are advised for medicinal doses due to potential interactions with estrogen-sensitive medications or blood sugar-lowering drugs, and it should be avoided during pregnancy unless under the guidance of a certified healthcare provider, as safety data is limited.*
*This information has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; for educational purposes only.*
Available in sizes from 0.05oz to 1lb at our retail location, contact us for custom amounts.
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