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Aniseed is esteemed in medicine for its
properties to relieve flatulence and to remove catarrhal matter and
phlegm from the bronchial tube. These properties are due to the presence
of its essential oil. The seed also induces copious perspiration and
increases the volume and discharge of urine.
Aniseed should not be boiled too long as it
may lose its digestive properties and essential oil during the process.
The seed are used to flavor curries, sweets, cakes, cookies and
biscuits. Anise oil is employed in medicine as an aromatic carminative
to relieve flatulence. Being a mild expectorant, it is used as an
ingredient of beverages and liqueurs. It is a popular flavoring agent
for dental preparations and mouth washes.
Digestive Disorders - Aniseed
is an ideal medicine for expelling wind from the stomach. it can also be
taken, in combination with other digestive like ginger, cumin and
pepper, in the form of an infusion. Gripe water for infants contains
aniseed extract. An easy way to prepare the infusion is to mix a
teaspoon of aniseed in a cup of boiling water and leave it covered
overnight. The clear fluid is then decanted and taken with honey. This
is an ideal treatment for indigestion, especially when there is gurgling
in the abdomen. It is also useful in preventing gas and fermentation in
the stomach and the bowels.
Cataract - The herb is useful
in the treatment of cataract. In such case, 6 grams of aniseed should be
taken daily in the morning and evening. The other way of taking this
herb is to powder an equal weight of aniseed and coriander seeds and to
mix it with an equal weight of unrefined sugar. About 12 grams doses of
this mixture is to be taken in the morning and evening.
Asthma - Aniseed is considered
beneficial in the treatment of asthma due to its expectorant properties.
Insomnia - Tea made from
aniseed is considered beneficial in the treatment of sleeplessness. It
is prepared by boiling 375 ml of water and adding a teaspoon of aniseed.
The water should be covered with a lid and allowed to simmer for 15
minutes. It should then be strained and taken hot or warm. Honey and hot
milk will improve the taste. It should be sipped either after meals or
before going to bed.
Head Lice - Aniseed is used
externally as an insecticide against small insects such as lice, mites
and vermin. It also has fungicidal properties.
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