Aniseed
- Pimpenella
anisum
An
annual herb, less than a metre high with white flowers
and delicate leaves, Aniseed is also known as Anise
- which is not to be confused with Star Anise ‘illicium
verum’.
Aniseed
oil is strongly antiseptic and can be used topically
for lice and scabies - and used in a massage rub
is helpful for various chronic chest problems, including
bronchitis, whooping cough, and asthma.
The
seed is used in smoking mixtures, and Aniseed tea
can be used to treat infant catarrh, colic and griping
pain, and flatulence. It is also useful for painful
periods.
As
a remedy for digestive troubles, it can help clear
flatulence, and help with nerves - especially in
children.
Reportedly
used in Europe by nursing mums to encourage milk
flow, Aniseed has also been used to encourage a
speedy childbirth - and should be avoided in high
doses whilst pregnant.
!
Avoid high doses in pregnancy - Toxic in high doses,
Aniseed is a narcotic and can slow down circulation.
Anethole is a major component in Aniseed and is
known to cause dermatitis, so avoid use in allergic
and inflammatory skin conditions. Potentially addictive
! |