Benefits And Applications Of Anise Seeds, Confirmed By Science

2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29

Anise / Pimpinella anisum / is a plant that comes from the same family as carrots, celery and parsley. It can reach a height of 1 m and blooms small white flowers.

Anise has a specific and different taste, which is often used to add a special touch to desserts and drinks. It is also known for its powerful health properties and acts as a natural remedy for a wide range of ailments.

Here are 7 benefits and applications of anise seedsconfirmed by science.

1. Rich in nutrients

Although anise is used in relatively small amounts, it contains many important trace elements in each serving. In particular, anise is rich in ironwhich, in turn, is vital for the production of healthy blood cells in your body. Also anise seeds contain a certain amount of manganese - a key mineral that acts as an antioxidant and is necessary for metabolism and body development.

1 tablespoon (7 g) anise seeds provides approximately:

Calories: 23

Protein: 1 g

Fat: 1 g

Carbohydrates: 3 g

Fiber: 1 g

Iron: 13% of the reference daily intake

Manganese: 7% of RDP

Calcium: 4% of RDP

Magnesium: 3% of RDP

Phosphorus: 3% of the RTI index

Potassium: 3% of RDP

Honey: 3% of RDP

However, keep in mind that most recipes will probably require less than 1 tbsp. aniseed seeds.

2. It can reduce the symptoms of depression

Depression is a serious health condition that affects up to 25% of women and 12% of men worldwide. Interestingly, some studies have found that anise can help treat depression. One study found that aniseed extract has powerful antidepressant properties and is as effective as the usual prescription for treating depression.

Moreover, according to another study in 107 people, taking 3 g of anise powder three times a day was effective in reducing the symptoms of postpartum depression. Similarly, in a four-week study in 120 people, taking a capsule of 200 mg of anise oil three times a day significantly reduced the symptoms of moderate depression.

3. Protects against stomach ulcers

Gastric ulcer is accompanied by painful pain that forms in the lining of the stomach, causing symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea and burning sensation in the chest. Although traditional treatment usually involves the use of medications to reduce stomach acid production, preliminary studies show that anise can help to prevent stomach ulcers and reduce symptoms.

For example, an animal study noted that anise reduces gastric acid secretion, helps prevent ulceration, and protects cells from damage. However, research on the effects of aniseed on stomach ulcers are still very limited.

Further studies are needed.

4. Prevents the growth of fungi and bacteria

Studies show that anise seeds and their compounds have powerful antimicrobial properties that prevent infections and block the growth of fungi and bacteria. Anise and essential oil are especially effective against yeast and dermatophytes - a type of fungus that can cause skin disease.

Anethole, the active ingredient in pineapple seeds, also inhibits the growth of bacteria. Research has shown that anethole blocks the growth of bacteria that cause cholera, an infection characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration. However, further research is needed to investigate how anise can affect the growth of fungi and bacteria in humans.

5. It can help relieve the symptoms of menopause

Menopause is the natural decline in female reproductive hormones during aging, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue and dry skin. It is supposed to anise seeds mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, which potentially reduces the symptoms of menopause.

In a four-week study, 72 women with hot flashes took a capsule containing 330 mg of anise three times a day. Those who took anise had an almost 75% reduction in the frequency of hot flashes. Some of the compounds in Anise seeds also help Prevention of bone loss - one of the hallmarks of menopause, which occurs as a result of declining estrogen levels in the body. They also protect against osteoporosis.

Despite these promising results, more research is needed to determine and confirm the impact of menopausal symptoms in women.

6. Balances blood sugar levels

Some studies show that anethole, the active ingredient in pineapple seeds, can keep blood sugar levels under control when combined with a healthy diet.

In a 45-day study in animals with diabetes, anethole helped reduce high blood sugar by changing levels of several key enzymes. Anethole also improves the function of pancreatic cells that produce insulin. Note that these studies use a concentrated dose of anethole - much higher than that found in typical anise. More research is needed to assess how anise can affect blood sugar levels in humans.

7. Reduces inflammation

In many cases, inflammation is considered a normal response of the immune system to prevent injury and infection. However, high levels of long-term inflammation are associated with chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Studies show that the antioxidants in anise can reduce inflammation to improve health and prevent disease. Anise oil reduces swelling and pain.

Possible side effects from anise seeds

Most people can safely to consume anise without the risk of unwanted side effects. However, it can also cause an allergic reaction, especially if you are allergic to plants from the same family - such as dill, celery, parsley or dill. In addition, aniseed estrogen mimics can worsen the symptoms of hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer or endometriosis.

If you have a history of these conditions, go ahead to take anise seeds moderate. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Dosage and supplements with anise seeds

Although usually purchased as dried seeds, anise is also available as an oil, powder and extract. Anise seeds, oil and extract can bring the taste of baked goods and candies or improve the aroma of soaps and skin creams.

Most recipes require a few tablespoons (4-13 g or 5-15 ml) of green anise, oil or extract.

Keep in mind that each product contains different concentrations of anise, so it is important to change your recipe depending on the form of anise you use. For example, if a recipe requires 1 tsp. anise extract, you can replace with 1/4 teaspoon of anise oil or 2 tablespoons of green anise.

For medical use: doses of 600 mg to 9 g per day have been shown to be effective in treating conditions such as depression.

Anise is a powerful plant that is rich in many nutrients and boasts a wide range of health benefits.

It has antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and can fight stomach ulcers, keep blood sugar levels under control and reduce the symptoms of depression and menopause.

Combined with nutritious food and a healthy lifestyle anise can improve some aspects of your health.