Useful properties of anise seeds and contraindications for human health

Anise occupies a special place among medicinal herbs. Scientists have long been studying the beneficial properties of anise seeds and contraindications to their use. Even in ancient times, the plant was widely used by healers for the treatment of various diseases. And chefs used it as a fragrant spice, adding it to exquisite dishes.

Due to its sweetish and, at the same time, tart aroma, the seeds were placed in intoxicated drinks. Over time, the spice gained popularity throughout the world.

The birthplace of the plant is believed to be the Middle East and the Mediterranean. On the territory of Russia, it is grown as a spice and for medicinal purposes.

Related article: ginseng - beneficial properties of the root!

It is important to know the beneficial properties of anise seeds

Anise is an annual plant that occurs naturally and is grown in home gardens. Its round, erect stem grows over 50 cm in height. In June, when the plant blooms, umbrella buds form on the upper part of the shoot. It is in them that an egg-shaped fruit is formed, containing two unique seeds. This is truly a treasure trove of valuable elements. Let us consider in more detail how anise is useful for human health, and whether there are contraindications during the consumption of the product.

Most often, the herb is used as a spice, adding to such dishes:

• sauce;
• salad;
• dessert;
• drink;
• bakery products;
• vodka;
• wine.

This gives the food a special aroma and taste. For a long time, the fruits of anise have been used to treat various diseases. And today, popular medicines are made on the basis of herbs:

• breast elixir;
• cough sweets;
• anise oil;
• ammonia-anise drops.

Traditional medicine specialists offer all kinds of recipes for medicinal drinks, infusions and teas. Considering the beneficial properties of anise seeds and the peculiarities of their use, psychotherapists advise using the spice as a sedative.

To get the most out of the product, choose brightly colored seeds that exude a long lasting aroma.

The composition of anise seeds contains a number of valuable substances and elements that have a positive effect on the human body. Let's note the most popular ones:

• vitamins of such groups: C, PP, B1, B2, B5, B6;
• folic acid;
• vegetable fiber;
• carbohydrates;
• proteins;
• fats;
• ash;
• iron;
• phosphorus;
• sodium;
• calcium.

Given the rich composition of the product, scientists have come to the conclusion that anise seeds have both beneficial properties and contraindications. For example, oil obtained from the fruit of a plant contains the following chemical compounds:

• aldehyde;
• anethole;
• ketol;
• sugar;
• methylchavicol.

It turns out that using the product for treatment, you need to be judicious so as not to harm the sick body. Let's consider in more detail the beneficial properties of anise herb for humans.

Precious "drugs" at our feet

Before pills were available, people tried to heal with various herbs. The method proved to be effective and today there is a whole science of medicinal herbs. Among them, the valuable properties of ordinary anise are mentioned. The use of the plant leads to the following positive results:

• removal of pain and spasm of internal organs;
• antipyretic effect;
• fight against the focus of inflammation;
• coughing up phlegm from the affected airways.

Properly prepared anise tincture has a beneficial effect on the digestive system. It is used as a laxative for constipation, and as an antiseptic for diarrhea. Preparations containing anise seeds are prescribed in the treatment of:

• liver;
• kidney;
• genitourinary organs;
• nervous disorders;
• insomnia;
• headache.

There is an opinion that the use of anise in medicine has served as a solution to many intimate problems. Ladies complain less about women's ailments. Men notice an improvement in potency.

Tinctures and decoctions

Especially popular are decoctions and tinctures of anise seeds for the treatment of various diseases. You can prepare anise tincture for coughing if you take a teaspoon of crushed grains and pour a glass of boiling water over them. Insist for several hours. Take 100 ml after meals 3 times a day.

According to the same recipe, a tincture is prepared for the treatment of various kinds of inflammation in the oral cavity (gums, tonsils) and the fight against unpleasant odor.

An equally popular way of preparing the medicine is using dried anise. It is poured with medical alcohol, after which it is insisted for at least 7 days. Then filter and take a maximum of 15 drops about 10 times a day.

To prepare a decoction of anise, take 2 tablespoons of seeds, pour 1 liter of water and boil for a quarter of an hour. It is taken in the treatment of the gastrointestinal tract, painful periods, increased nervousness. If a person suffers from hoarseness, you can make a drink for him from the following ingredients:

• anise fruits (100 grams);
• 2 tablespoons honey;
• 1 spoonful of brandy;
• 200 ml of water.

First, the seeds must be boiled in water. When cool, add honey and cognac. Stir the mixture well. Instructions for using anise are quite simple: drink one spoonful every half hour until the inflammation in the nasopharynx and hoarseness disappear completely.

The seeds can be used to treat burns. To do this, they are first crushed, then mixed with egg white. The finished gruel is applied to the affected skin area three times a day.

Possible contraindications for medicinal fruits

Despite the many beneficial properties of anise and its use in traditional medicine, you need to approach its use with wisdom. In particular, you need to be especially careful if a person is diagnosed with the following diseases:

• ulcerative colitis;
• gastritis;
• increased acidity;
• stomach ulcer;
• problems with the duodenum.

In addition, problems may arise with individual intolerance. Ignoring the advice leads to allergic skin rashes, irritation of the gastric mucosa, swelling of the respiratory system. Anise is especially dangerous during pregnancy. Gynecologists categorically forbid women in an interesting position to use its fruits. The herb affects blood clotting, which can lead to problems during childbirth. In addition, the elements that make up the fruits of anise act on muscle tissue. This often leads to abortion or premature birth.

It is not uncommon for people who are overweight to include various drinks in their diet. Therefore, it is not surprising that they are attracted by the beneficial properties of aniseed tea. However, it affects the active secretion of gastric juice, resulting in increased appetite. Of course, he immediately wants to satisfy. Maybe it would be wiser to refuse such a drug for a while?

Excessive consumption of anise as a sedative can cause dizziness and physical weakness.

And the use of anise oil often leads to skin redness, hives, and even dermatitis. No one would like to spoil their impeccable appearance. Therefore, before using any medication, it is very important to get advice from your doctor.If a person does not suffer from peptic ulcers, he has normal acidity and is not in danger of pregnancy, anise seeds can become his favorite medicinal drug. So let us take care of our health with common sense.

Video about the benefits and dangers of anise