Anise, also known as Pimpinella anisum, is a flowering plant native to the Eastern Mediterranean region. It has long been used for its fragrance and flavor in cooking and as a traditional remedy for various ailments.

Anise has a licorice-like taste and is often used in baked goods, liqueurs, and teas.

However, besides its culinary uses, anise is also packed with nutrients and has several potential health benefits. Here are seven reasons to add anise to your diet.

1. May Relieve Menopause Symptoms

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It is usually accompanied by various symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.

Studies show that anise may help alleviate some of these symptoms. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that anise extract significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of hot flashes in menopausal women.

Similarly, anethole, a compound found in anise oil, has been shown to have estrogen-like effects on the body. This could explain why anise may help relieve menopause symptoms, as estrogen levels usually decrease during menopause.

However, more research is needed before anise can be recommended as a treatment for menopause.

2. May Improve Digestion

Anise has long been used in traditional medicine as a digestive aid. It is believed to stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes, which can help improve digestion and alleviate digestive issues like bloating and constipation.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that anise extract improved digestion and reduced stomach discomfort and bloating in healthy adults.

Moreover, anise contains compounds like anethole and carvone, which have been shown to have antispasmodic properties. This means they can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce spasms, cramps, and other forms of discomfort.

3. May Have Antimicrobial Properties

Anise has been traditionally used as an antimicrobial agent to treat various infections.

Recent studies have confirmed that anise has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which means it can kill or inhibit the growth of a wide range of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

A study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology found that anise essential oil was effective against various strains of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA.

Another study published in the Journal of Natural Medicines found that anise extract had antifungal activity against several fungal species known to cause infections in humans, such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger.

However, more research is needed to determine the extent of anise’s antimicrobial properties and how it can be used effectively to fight infections.

4. May Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to various health problems like arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

Several studies have shown that anise contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body.

For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that anise extract significantly reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in rats with arthritis.

Similarly, anethole has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in animal and test-tube studies. It works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins, cytokines, and leukotrienes.

5. May Lower Blood Sugar

Anise may also have benefits for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that anise extract significantly reduced blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity in rats with diabetes.

In another study, anethole was shown to increase glucose uptake by muscle cells, which could help lower blood sugar levels.

However, more research is needed to determine if anise can have similar effects in humans and how much anise would need to be consumed to see these effects.

6. May Help Alleviate Anxiety and Depression

The essential oil of anise has been traditionally used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and relieve anxiety and depression.

Several studies have confirmed that anise oil has sedative and anxiolytic effects, meaning it can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

A study published in the Journal of Respiratory Research found that inhaling anise oil for just five minutes reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Similarly, a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that anise oil inhalation reduced symptoms of anxiety in laboratory mice.

7. May Improve Oral Health

The antimicrobial properties of anise may also have benefits for oral health.

A study published in the Journal of Natural Products and Resources found that anise essential oil was effective against several oral pathogens like Streptococcus mutans, which is a major contributor to tooth decay.

Moreover, anise oil has also been shown to have antifungal properties against Candida albicans, a fungal species that can cause oral thrush.

Final Thoughts

Anise is a flavorful spice with several potential health benefits. It may help alleviate menopause symptoms, improve digestion, fight infections, reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar levels, alleviate anxiety and depression, and improve oral health.

However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits and determine the most effective ways to use anise for therapeutic purposes.

If you’re interested in adding anise to your diet, consider using it as a spice in your cooking or adding it to hot tea.

You can also try anise supplements, but always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.