
Anise
Pimpinella anisum
Anise is a flavorful spice with a sweet and aromatic taste, commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications.

Superpower
Renowned for its ability to relieve digestion issues and reduce gas.
Uses
Anise is used to flavor foods and beverages, relieve digestive discomforts, soothe coughs, and support lactation in breastfeeding mothers. Aniseed shows beneficial effects on dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and menopausal hot flashes. In diabetes is has hypoglycemic (low glucose in bloodstream) and hypolipidemic (cholesterol-lowering) effects and can reduce lipid peroxidation.
Cautions
Use caution in GERD or acid reflux due to relaxing effects on lower esophageal sphincter (speculative)
Known Chemical Constituents
Volatile oil (anethole, foeniculin, y-himachalene, cis-isoeugenol, terpineol & linalool), coumarins, flavonoid glycosides, phenylpropanoids, fatty acids & sterols, proteins, carbohydrates.
Botanical Description
Annual growing 2 ft, with feathery leaves, umbels of yellow flowers, ridged, gray-green seeds. Anise features small seeds with a licorice-like flavor and aroma.
Fun Facts
Anise has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties and as a flavoring agent in foods and drinks.
Preparations
Anise seeds can be used whole or ground in culinary dishes, teas, and herbal remedies.
Sacred Rituals
Create a sacred space infused with the aroma of anise, and meditate on feelings of protection and purification.
Affirmations
“I am protected and purified. Like the anise seed, I am grounded and shielded.”
Spiritual Associations
Anise is associated with protection, purification, and psychic awareness.

Functions
An analgesic is a substance that relieves pain by reducing the perception of pain signals or alleviating discomfort without causing a loss of consciousness.
Anti-microbialA substance or agent that inhibits the growth of or destroys a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
AntioxidantA substance or agent that neutralizes free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues.
AntispasmodicA substance or agent that helps relieve or prevent involuntary muscle spasms, cramps, or contractions in smooth or skeletal muscles.
CarminativeA substance or agent that helps relieve gas, bloating, and discomfort in the digestive system by promoting the expulsion of gas and soothing the digestive tract.
Cough ReliefRefers to interventions or substances that soothe the throat, reduce irritation, and help alleviate coughing, particularly when it becomes excessive or uncomfortable.
Digestive & Elimination HealthThe overall well-being and optimal functioning of the digestive system, which includes the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and other supporting organs. It encompasses the processes of breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste, as well as maintaining a healthy balance of gut microbiota.
Expectorant (clears mucus)Galactogogue (Increase breast milk)A galactagogue is a substance that stimulates or increases the production of breast milk in lactating individuals, supporting both the quantity and quality of milk supply.
Lactation SupportRefers to substances, practices, or interventions that help promote and maintain healthy milk production for breastfeeding.
