2023-11-03 21:29:22
During the time of ancient Egypt, the use of herbs and spices was an everyday practice in cooking or medicine. In this Mediterranean region where it was cultivated, it is probable that Tutankhamun already knew the therapeutic virtues ofgreen anise. Even if no archaeological record has provided proof of this.
In France, nowadays, this plante and his seeds are also emblematic…pastis (to be consumed in moderation). But these benefits are not limited to the pleasure of the aperitif! Here’s why it’s also a good time to say: Cheers!
What is green anise made of?
Green anise belongs to the Apiaceae plant family with celery, fennel, coriander, parsley, etc. It contains:
- essential oil: responsible for its clearly identifiable aroma and flavor, the seeds contain anethole, which causes the cloudy color when in contact with water. They have digestive and antimicrobial properties. Anethole also acts as a phytoestrogen, its chemical structure is close to those of female hormones,
- phenolic compounds: eugenol (painkillers and anti-inflammatory), methylchavicol (antioxidant), apigenin (with multiple properties),
- nutrients: vitamins (C, A, B), minerals (iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc),
- fiber: this is its main source of carbohydrates.
Such richness of properties justifies being interested in the medicinal use of Pimpinella anisum, the botanical name of green anise.
What are the 7 therapeutic virtues of green anise?
- relieve digestive disorders : bloating, flatulence, muscle spasms, minor gastrointestinal disorders.
- whet your appetite : hence its place of choice as an aperitif! Its sweet taste and smell seem to stimulate the brain and make you want to eat.
- soothe coughs and throat irritations : its anti-inflammatory properties calm tingling, its expectorant action helps expel mucus and, finally, the properties of anethole reduce spasms in the respiratory tract.
- facilitate lactation : traditionally, green anise is recommended for breastfeeding women for its ability to promote milk production.
- providing comfort during menopause : it helps to alleviate symptoms, such as hot flashes and the feeling of heavy legs.
- protect cells from oxidative stress : its flavonoids help neutralize free radicals.
- relax, unwind : the essential oil is diffused in the air in aromatherapy and applied in massages.
How to take green anise?
The main galenic forms of green anise are: infusion, dry extract, powder and capsules, essential oil.
- As an infusion: a cup of herbal tea of 3 g of crushed seeds infused in 150 ml of simmering water, three times a day.
- In dry extract: some people like to chew a small spoonful of seeds at the end of the meal. This is also a common practice in India where we serve pan masalaa mixture of green anise seeds, fennel, coriander, according to the recipe.
- Powder/capsules: 1 teaspoon of powder per day or in 2 capsules of 250 mg at lunchtime and in the evening.
- In essential oil: inhalation during colds or bronchitis, dilute a few drops in a bowl of boiling water. Massages can also be administered by mixing a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil and testing first. The antispasmodic properties of green anise can relax and relieve muscle contractions while stimulating blood circulation in cases of heavy legs.
Are there any precautions for use?
Green anise is sometimes recommended to treat colic and milk reflux in babies. Seek the advice of a doctor beforehand.
It is contraindicated in pregnant women, children under 12 years old and asthmatics. Some people may be allergic to the anethole in green anise. Breastfeeding women wishing to improve the flow of milk should use green anise with caution due to cases of toxicity observed in infant.
At high doses, theessential oil anise can lead to respiratory inflammation, severe nausea and convulsions.
No drug interactions have been reported. But with plants, it is advisable to be careful if you are taking anticoagulant treatment.
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