Medicinal plants during pregnancy. Anise during pregnancy, exclude dangerous spices from the diet. Is it possible for pregnant women to take anise?

Common anise is an annual plant that came to us from the East, where it was widely used in folk medicine for thousands of years. In our country, this useful crop began to spread as a decoration for summer cottages and over time gained considerable popularity.

What does anise look like?

Anise is a low plant, up to 50 cm in length. Its most characteristic feature is white flowers collected in small umbrella-shaped bunches.

The stem of anise is straight, branching only towards the very top, the leaves have veins dividing them into lobes. In our area, you can most often find common anise on plantations or in summer cottages. After the flowering period, fruits begin to appear at the tops of the plant. They are usually brown in color and have an oblong, cup-shaped shape. It is the fruits that are of the greatest value.

Collection and preparation

All parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. Flowers need to be collected in the first half of summer, while the fruits ripen only at the end of August and must be collected in the autumn. Only fully ripened fruits need to be collected. To collect the fruits, you need to cut the plants and tie them into small bunches. In this form, the anise will need no more than a month to dry completely.

After the raw materials are completely dry, you can easily separate the fruits from the stems and foliage. Leaves and stems should be chopped and set aside for later use. The fruits are most often used for medicinal purposes, but anise seeds can also be useful. They are often used in the food industry and even in perfumery; anise essential oil has become an integral part of many household products. It has also proven itself as an excellent tool in the fight against ticks, fleas and other harmful insects.

Medicinal properties of anise

Anise has a rich arsenal of beneficial properties, which has made it a popular favorite wherever it grows in the wild. For example, the fruits of this wonderful plant can provide invaluable help with bronchitis or other diseases of the respiratory system. After all, anise fruits are a natural expectorant. Also, this natural medicine can help with stomach problems, increase its secretion and relieve cramps.

Anise can be used to relieve inflammation of the genitourinary tract and as a diuretic. In some cases, anise-based preparations are used by nursing mothers to increase milk supply. In general, this plant has a beneficial effect on the human body, which makes it one of the most popular folk remedies in the world. And pharmacology has not left anise unnoticed - a lot of different drugs are produced on its basis for every taste.

Contraindications

Despite the many beneficial properties, anise has a number of contraindications. It should not be consumed by pregnant women or those who suffer from chronic diseases of the digestive system. It is also not recommended to use anise for those with stomach ulcers. Young children should not be treated with this plant, as it may pose a danger to their health.

If you take anise essential oil internally, remember that it should not be used in this way for more than a week. Otherwise, you risk causing significant harm to your own health. Despite all the usefulness of anise, you should not take contraindications lightly, as your well-being may depend on it. Also try not to overuse decoctions or tinctures from this plant, this can also cause serious harm.

Recipes

Anise is a plant with a wide range of medicinal properties. There are a huge number of folk recipes for both the gastrointestinal tract and the bronchi and respiratory tract. An infusion of anise fruit can be an excellent expectorant. To prepare it, you need to pour half a liter of hot water onto one tablespoon of fruit and leave for about an hour. Then the liquid should be filtered and consumed three times a day half an hour before meals as an expectorant. For similar purposes, you can use anise oil in an amount of up to 5 drops, also three times a day.

Anise seeds help with intestinal colic or flatulence. To prepare a decoction, pour one teaspoon of anise seeds with a glass of boiling water and let the resulting mixture brew for half an hour, after which you need to strain the liquid. The resulting decoction should be taken three times a day, one cup.

If you are tormented by kidney or bladder stones, then this recipe will help: pour 2 teaspoons of anise seeds with a glass of boiling water, let it brew for about 20 minutes, strain, and you're done! You need to take the resulting liquid 2 tablespoons about 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals.

Other useful properties

In addition to getting rid of stomach or lung diseases, anise can help men regain lost potency or restore normal sexual activity if problems have begun with it. For this, all kinds of decoctions and tinctures from anise seeds are used. Another beneficial property of the seeds is increased lactation in women who are breastfeeding.

This decoction can help with this: for 2 teaspoons of seeds you will need a glass of water. All this needs to be slowly heated in a water bath for 30 minutes, then strain, add sugar to taste. The resulting substance should be taken three times a day, two tablespoons.

Anise infusions can be used as a gargle for a sore throat or simply against bad breath. This plant can also be an assistant in the fight against insomnia. To do this, you need to pour a teaspoon of anise seeds with one glass of hot milk and leave for half an hour, then add a little honey to the liquid. It is best to drink the resulting drink two hours before bedtime.

Composition of anise

What makes anise so beneficial? What substances should we thank for their miraculous properties? Anise fruits contain approximately 3% essential oils, as well as a quarter of fatty oil and about 20% protein substances. This healthy culture also contains various minerals, sugar and mucus. Such a rich and varied composition provides this medicinal plant with such a wide range of healing properties.

Uses of anise in everyday life

Naturally, the main thing that anise is famous for is its medicinal properties. However, it can be useful not only for treating ailments, but also in everyday life. For example, anise stems can be an excellent food for pets in the summer. The range of uses of plant seeds is especially wide - they are used in making bread or to create pleasant aromas. Ground seeds can be used as a seasoning for some dishes, and anise essential oils are excellent at repelling flies, ticks and other annoying insects.

Anise is widely used in the production of alcoholic beverages. It can be found in popular liquids such as absinthe or sambuca. In Greece, alcoholic drinks made from anise are widespread. Not a single major holiday is complete without anise moonshine. Thus, we can note the deep relationship between anise and the culture of the peoples living side by side with it.

Anise at his own dacha

Anise has truly magical properties. The use of this plant brings such beneficial results that many summer residents would not mind having this crop on their plot. In our area, anise gets along well, but requires care and competent care. It is also important to plant the plant correctly in order to get the long-awaited harvest.

First you need to germinate the seeds by moistening them with water and wrapping them in a cloth or gauze. After about a week, sprouts will begin to emerge from the seeds - this is a sure sign that it is time to start planting. It is necessary to bury the seeds in the ground at a depth of 3-4 centimeters, with large or small row spacing, depending on personal preference. The soil must be dug up in advance. It should not be heavy, clayey or saline - these types of soil are not suitable for anise.

Anise seeds have been famous for their healing properties since ancient times. Since the time of Avicenna: he recommended treatment with fresh and dried leaves and seeds. And Hippocrates used the plant to heal nasal ulcers and maintain good eyesight. In addition, in the old days they believed that if you sleep on a pillow filled with anise seeds, then a person will never be tormented by nightmares.

Anise seeds: medicinal properties and contraindications

Beneficial properties of herbs and anise fruits

All the beneficial properties of this plant are explained by its rich chemical composition. Its fruits contain from 3 to 6% essential oil, vegetable fats, protein, carbohydrates, sugars, furfural, acids (fatty, chlorogenic, caffeic).

Due to this, anise has an antiseptic, anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant, and laxative effect. Very popular in homeopathy.

Contraindications and side effects

It should be remembered that anise can cause allergies. Therefore, people with a tendency to allergic reactions should use it with caution. First a very small dose. Then, if there are no manifestations, you can gradually increase it.

You should also avoid using anise during pregnancy.

You should not use decoctions and infusions of anise for chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and other conditions accompanied by high acidity.

You should not use it for a long time in large doses, because... Possible paradoxical arousal and narcotic effect.

Herb Anise: use in medicine

Anise for throat and laryngitis

For the treatment of throat diseases, the following infusion is recommended. Take one teaspoon of anise fruit (crushed), brew a glass of boiling water, put on low heat for 15 minutes, then strain through cheesecloth. Take 3-4 times a day 20 minutes before meals, 2-3 tablespoons. The infusion relieves dry throat and eliminates hoarseness.

Anise for cough

Essential oil is included in the formulation of lollipops and cough syrups, including for children, and is used for inhalation. It is also included in pharmaceutical anti-asthmatic medicines and some other medications.

Coughs that arise from colds, bronchitis, whooping cough and tracheitis are treated as follows. One teaspoon of dry anise is poured into a glass of boiling water, left for 30 minutes, then filtered and taken before meals, 3 times a day, 1/4 cup.

What are the benefits of anise for weight loss?

Anise is an effective remedy for weight loss. The effect is achieved by reducing appetite. For the purpose of losing weight, it is recommended to use a decoction of seeds: 2 teaspoons of seeds, pour 1 glass of boiling water, 30 minutes. insist in a water bath, cool for 10 minutes, then filter and add 1 table. lie Sahara. There are 2 tables inside. lie 3-4 times a day before meals.

Other medicinal properties of the anise plant and additional effects on the human body

Nervous system

  • For headaches and neuralgia, it is recommended to chew anise seeds. They can also be brewed with the addition of fennel and cumin. This tea relieves nervous tension.
  • It has a general stimulating effect on the human body and increases performance.

The cardiovascular system

  • Eliminates symptoms of tachycardia, normalizes blood pressure.

Respiratory system

The benefits of anise are undeniable for inflammatory diseases:

  • diaphoretic, antipyretic, expectorant effect - decoction: pour 1 teaspoon of ground seeds into one glass of water, boil for 20 minutes, cool and strain. 0.25 cups orally 3-4 times a day before meals. Also useful for bronchial asthma.


Digestive system

  • anise infusion is used to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract, so it is recommended to use it after a hearty meal in case of feeling of heaviness in the stomach;
  • effective against flatulence, constipation;
  • has a positive effect on the functioning of the pancreas and liver.

Reproductive system

  • eating common anise seeds enhances potency;
  • When menstruation is delayed in girls, during painful menstruation, and also to increase libido, it is recommended to take a decoction: 4 teaspoons of seeds/200 ml of water, boil for 5 minutes, strain. There are 2 tables inside. lie 3 times a day;
  • infusion: 1 teaspoon of fruit / 1 tablespoon. boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, strain and drink 0.25 cups 3 times a day before meals. Useful for diseases of the uterus,
  • unlike star anise, it can be used to stimulate lactation in breastfeeding women (also anise oil). read on separate page.
  • with sexual impotence, frigidity.

Urinary system

  • for oliguria (decreased amount of urine), as a diuretic - a decoction: pour 2 teaspoons of anise fruit into one glass of boiling water, then leave in a water bath for 30 minutes, cool and strain, then add 1 tbsp. lie Sahara. 2 tables each. lie orally 3-4 times a day before meals;
  • for inflammatory processes of the urinary tract and renal colic - infusion (how to prepare it - see above in the section on the reproductive system);

Leather

  • essential oil of anise is excellent in caring for dry, sagging skin;
  • Pour 1 teaspoon of anise flakes into 0.5 liters. boiling water, leave for 1 hour, then strain. Take 0.5 cups orally before meals;
  • for inflammation of the eyes, a tincture of anise with saffron and wine helps;
  • for burns: ointment made from egg whites and ground anise seeds

And of course, adding beneficial properties to food. Find more details on our website.

Often pregnant women are distrustful of drug treatment and prefer to drink herbal decoctions. But is it really safe? Herbs are primarily medicines and have quite strong effects. It is not for nothing that even with the modern level of development of medicine, doctors do not refuse to use various decoctions. What herbs can you drink during pregnancy so as not to harm yourself and your baby?

general information

Herbs have a general strengthening, preventive and therapeutic effect. Medicinal herbs should be used with extreme caution during pregnancy. Some of them may have abortifacient, toxic or hormonal effects.

Based on their action, they can be divided into restorative and therapeutic. What herbs can you drink during pregnancy? You need to understand well that it is permissible to use only strengthening herbs in small quantities. Any treatment, including herbal medicine, can only be carried out on the recommendation and under the supervision of a specialist. Herbal treatment can be used only taking into account the health status and duration of pregnancy of the woman. First, let's look at what herbs you can drink during pregnancy.

Fireweed angustifolia (fireweed)

Herbs useful during pregnancy primarily have a general strengthening effect. One of the most useful nutritious herbs is angustifolia fireweed. It is better known as fireweed. This plant is undeservedly forgotten today, but fireweed used to be widely exported. The infusion of this plant is fragrant and pleasant to the taste, in addition, it has many beneficial properties:

  1. Ivan tea has a pronounced calming effect.
  2. The amount of vitamin C in fireweed is comparable to the content of this vitamin in black currant berries.
  3. Fireweed is an irreplaceable source of minerals.
  4. A decoction of it has a mild analgesic effect.
  5. Relieves anxiety and normalizes sleep.
  6. Improves blood counts.

Fireweed brings cheerfulness to a tired person, and gives peace and normal sleep to an anxious person. You can buy fireweed tea at the pharmacy, but due to the peculiarities of drying, the pharmaceutical product does not have the full range of useful substances and richness of taste. It is better to prepare fireweed yourself or purchase it from people who constantly collect a certain amount of this herb for themselves. During pregnancy, you can drink fireweed infusion instead of tea.

How to prepare fireweed tea?

Fireweed is collected in the summer, at the time of flowering. For drying, take one part of flowers and two parts of leaves. The mass must release juice before fermentation. You can pound it in a mortar, pass it through a meat grinder, or simply mash it thoroughly with your hands.

Now the crumpled leaves are piled in a dark place. Fermentation can last from several hours (for green tea lovers) to a day (for black tea lovers). During fermentation, the smell of fireweed changes from the aroma of freshly cut grass to a sweet, fruity aroma.

Fireweed should be dried in the sun or in a stove or oven. If damp, the pulp will begin to deteriorate. Tea should be stored in glass containers.

currant leaf

What herbs to drink during pregnancy? Currant leaves are successfully used to treat vitamin deficiency, increase hemoglobin, increase appetite, for colds, cough, and as a diaphoretic. In addition, currants have an anti-inflammatory effect, remove uric acid and stimulate the activity of the adrenal cortex.

Currant leaves are used to treat eczema, neurodermatitis, diathesis, rheumatism, liver and kidney diseases. Currant leaves contain more vitamin C than berries. What are the benefits of currants for pregnant women?

  1. Supplies the body with a large amount of vitamins and microelements.
  2. Increases immunity, which is especially important in the autumn-winter period.
  3. Increases hemoglobin levels.
  4. Helps reduce stress on the kidneys.

Raspberry leaf

What herbs can you drink during pregnancy? Raspberry leaf. It has invaluable qualities that are especially useful for pregnant women. The fact is that the leaves contain phytoestrogens, which will help prepare for childbirth. It is important to know that many doctors strongly do not recommend consuming raspberry leaves in the first and second trimester. It is better to start drinking a decoction of them no earlier than 8 weeks before giving birth. This prepares the uterus for childbirth, helps open the cervix and prevents constipation. It is not recommended to drink raspberry decoction, as it has astringent properties.

It is also used for influenza, sore throats, coughs, women's diseases, menstrual irregularities, and hemorrhoids.

Herbs that can cause abortion

Herbs contraindicated during pregnancy can cause abortion and pose a health hazard to mother and child. The list of dangerous herbs and those whose use is only possible under the supervision of a doctor is very extensive.

The green pharmacy is not as harmless as it seems to an inexperienced person. And midwives could use herbs against pregnancy. Herbs containing alkaloids and essential oils stimulate muscle contractions. If you use them, a miscarriage may occur. This is extremely dangerous for both the fetus and the health of the mother. Let's figure out which herbs are prohibited during pregnancy.

A miscarriage can be caused by:

  • Tree aloe grows in almost every home, and its beneficial properties are known to everyone. But during pregnancy you need to be extremely careful with this plant. Aloe can be included in various preparations to strengthen the immune system, stimulate appetite, and in gastrointestinal preparations. The plant can cause bleeding.
  • Common barberry. Do not use tincture of leaves or unripe berries. It can be found in preparations to improve liver function, stimulate appetite, anti-anemia, and against cholelithiasis. Can be used as a seasoning, but in small quantities.
  • Medicinal oregano causes uterine tone and uterine bleeding. It can be found in sedatives, appetite improvers, pulmonary-bronchial and gastric preparations. Dangerous in any form.
  • Lovage promotes contraction of the uterine muscles and is dangerous in any form. It may be included in seasonings and is found in diuretic, expectorant, sedative, and analgesic preparations.
  • Buckthorn is used as a laxative. Can cause hyperemia.
  • Ergot is poisonous, causes uterine tone and is contraindicated during pregnancy.
  • Garlic is used in herbal medicine, but treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy.
  • included in the collections for anemia, stress, headaches, swelling.
  • Rhubarb reduces blood clotting and provokes calcium deficiency due to the high content of oxalic acid, which negatively affects the health of the mother and the formation of bones in the fetus. Used as a choleretic and laxative.
  • Black radish improves appetite and digestion and is used as a cough medicine, but the essential oils that the plant is rich in can cause uterine tone. In salads, you can replace it with daikon and white radish, which do not contain as many essential oils.
  • Curly parsley should be completely excluded from the diet of both a pregnant woman at any stage and a woman planning a pregnancy and prone to miscarriages. It provokes abortion and premature birth.
  • Anise is used to treat amenorrhea, but it can cause uterine bleeding.

Herbs that disrupt placental circulation

There are herbs that can disrupt placental circulation. Because of this, the fetus will not be able to receive enough nutrients and oxygen. What herbs are prohibited during pregnancy?

  • Hyssop officinalis can be included in preparations against anemia, neuroses, angina pectoris, gastrointestinal diseases, and bronchial asthma. The plant also causes uterine tone.
  • Salvia officinalis is used as a seasoning, a diuretic, and a decoction helps with sore throats and stomatitis. Sage is useful for those planning to become pregnant, but during pregnancy it can cause miscarriage, since its action is similar to the hormone estrogen. In addition, it increases blood pressure and promotes the formation of blood clots. It is forbidden to use sage internally, but it is suitable for external use. You can gargle and do foot baths.

Herbs that negatively affect the fetus

There are herbs that can increase the likelihood of allergies. They do not cause a reaction to any specific product, but a general predisposition. These are wild strawberries and succession.

Wild strawberries are used for vitamin deficiencies, anemia, urolithiasis, and stomach diseases. It can predispose the fetus to allergic reactions and cause miscarriage.

It seems like a safe herb, because children are bathed in it literally from the first days of life. But it is harmless only when used externally, but it cannot be taken internally during pregnancy.

There are also a number of herbs that can provoke the development of defects in a child: seaweed, spinach, sorrel. When consumed in excess, seaweed can cause an overdose of iodine, so pregnant women need to be careful with it. Spinach, sorrel, rhubarb, due to their high content of oxalic acid, can negatively affect the formation of bones in a child.

Herbs that have a negative effect on the mother’s body

A number of herbs can have adverse effects on the mother's body. During pregnancy, these herbs cause swelling and increase pain:

  • Mordovnik is used to treat neurological diseases. In a pregnant woman it can cause muscle tone, cramps, and increase sensitivity to pain.
  • Licorice glabra is a plant that is very often recommended for diseases of the bronchi and lungs; it is included in many cough syrups. In pregnant women it causes swelling, increases blood pressure, and affects hormone levels.
  • The birch chaga mushroom retains water and causes swelling.

Herbs that increase toxicosis and gestosis

Herbs included in this group can be prescribed to a pregnant woman in rare cases, but only by a herbalist who has gynecological specialization. These herbs cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, etc.:

  • Ledum marsh is used as an expectorant, lowers blood pressure, and can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestinal mucosa.
  • Valerian officinalis is often taken by pregnant women as a mild sedative. But with high dosages or long-term use, it increases nervousness, causes nausea, vomiting, headache, and disrupts heart function.
  • Sweet clover is used as an expectorant and diuretic; it is prescribed for insomnia and rheumatism. The plant is poisonous, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Wormwood is prescribed for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and as a choleretic agent. May cause bleeding.
  • Celandine causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory depression in pregnant women.

Herbs that increase blood pressure

High blood pressure is especially dangerous during pregnancy, so herbs that increase it should be used with extreme caution:

  • St. John's wort is found in various phytotherapeutic preparations. This plant disrupts placental blood flow, constricts blood vessels, and increases blood pressure.
  • used in the treatment of the liver and gall bladder, causes an increase in blood pressure.

Herbs that affect kidney function

It is no secret that the kidneys are subject to double load during pregnancy, so it is very important not to overload the organs further and not to suppress their functions.

  • Calamus is part of gastrointestinal preparations and is dangerous due to its strong diuretic effect.
  • Blue cornflower is included in cardiovascular, diuretic, and choleretic preparations. Dangerous due to the high content of the cyanide complex and diuretic effect.
  • depresses the kidneys, respiration, reduces blood pressure, causes vomiting, pain in the stomach and intestines.
  • Juniper is used as a diuretic.
  • Elecampane is used as an expectorant and has a negative effect on the kidneys.
  • Do not overuse celery and dill.

Herbs that affect blood clotting

Blood clotting parameters are extremely important both during pregnancy and during childbirth. Interfering with the delicate balance of the coagulation system without special knowledge is very dangerous, so herbs that affect coagulation should be used with caution:

  • Not only does knotweed have a blood-clotting effect, but it can also cause uterine contractions.
  • Cat's paw increases blood pressure and has a blood clotting effect.
  • Burnet, like other hemostatic agents, is not recommended.

Herbs that disrupt hormonal levels

The list of herbs that disrupt hormonal levels is very extensive, and it includes many herbs used in various herbs:

  • dandelion officinalis;
  • Walnut;
  • common hop;
  • stinging nettle;
  • common ginseng;
  • Rhodiola rosea;
  • Eleutherococcus;
  • red clover.

Of course, you need to be especially careful with poisonous herbs such as hemlock, belladonna, larkspur, comfrey, milkweed and others. If you prefer to be treated with the gifts of a green pharmacy, then you should thoroughly understand which herbs you can drink during pregnancy and which you cannot, and be sure to consult a herbalist.

Among the variety of medicinal plants, anise occupies a place of honor. Its sweetish tart smell attracted the attention of cooks, pharmacists, and winemakers. Small brownish flowers with a distinct aroma have become famous all over the world. This article is about the medicinal properties and contraindications of anise.

Anise has been popular since ancient times. The true homeland of this plant is still controversial. Some call Asia Minor, others - ancient Egypt and Greece. In Russia, this plant began to be grown at the end of the 19th century.

Its main purpose is spice. Now it is used as a spice for preparing salads, sauces, sweet dishes, baked goods and drinks. Even alcoholic drinks have not bypassed this plant - sambuca, aniseed vodka and others.

Even in ancient times, it was found that the plant has unusual medicinal properties. Magicians placed it at the head of the sick to banish nightmares and normalize sleep. Today, anise is widely used in medicine. Medicines are made on its basis. Popular today are ammonia-anise drops, cough candies, breast elixir, anise oil.

Traditional healers offer a large number of recipes for tea, tinctures and drinks. Psychologists recommend anise for aromatherapy, as its smell has a tonic and calming effect.

The secret is in the chemical composition of anise

The most valuable part of a plant is its seeds. They are also called fruits.

They contain a large number of different vitamins and minerals.

Per hundred grams of seeds there are:

  • Vitamin C or ascorbic acid – 21 mg;
  • PP or niacin – 3.06 mg;
  • B5 or pantothenic acid – 0.79 mg;
  • B6 or pyridoxine – 0.59 mg;
  • B1 or thiamine – 0.35;
  • B2 or riboflavin – 0.3;
  • folic acid – 10 mg.

Main cast:

  • fiber 15 grams;
  • proteins – 15 grams;
  • fats – 16 grams;
  • carbohydrates – 35 grams;
  • ash – 7 grams;
  • water - 10% of the total weight of the plant.


Minerals: iron, selenium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, selenium, potassium, copper, manganese, zinc and some others.

Its oils contain:

  • anisealdehyde;
  • anethole;
  • anise ketol;
  • methyl chavicol;
  • anisic acid;
  • sugar;
  • protein substances.

Calories and nutritional value

There are 337 calories per hundred grams of product.

The nutritional value:

  • fats – 15.9 grams;
  • carbohydrates – 35.4 grams;
  • proteins – 17.6 grams.

Medicinal properties of anise

Anise acts as an analgesic, antiseptic, antipyretic, diaphoretic and anti-inflammatory. It also has a diuretic, laxative, antispasmodic and sedative effect. The drugs are used in the treatment of diseases of the liver, bladder, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, cough, headaches, nervous and sexual disorders.

Anise helps women a lot. It normalizes the menstrual cycle, relieves pain, and treats frigidity.

For men it is useful as a means to increase potency.

Has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Effective for sleep disturbances, insomnia and frequent awakenings.

The effect of anise on the human body

Plant seeds and medicines based on them:

  • increase appetite;
  • improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • improve kidney function;
  • stimulate genitourinary functions;
  • act as an expectorant;
  • eliminate bad breath;

Anise essential oils are used for the following diseases:

  • nervous exhaustion and overstrain (stress, apathy, depression, melancholy, etc.);
  • headache and dizziness;
  • stomach problems (vomiting, constipation, flatulence);
  • arthritis and rheumatism;
  • muscle pain;
  • female diseases (painful menstruation and menopause);
  • tachycardia;
  • upper respiratory tract diseases (asthma, runny nose, cough);
  • diseases of the genitourinary system (cystitis, kidney stones, swelling).

Anise oil is also valued as a remedy against burns, hoarseness in the voice, inflammation of the gums and scurvy.

Teas and tinctures are made from anise seeds. Tea is used to increase the amount of breast milk and for colds and throat infections.

The benefits of anise for the human body

Thanks to its unique chemical composition, anise helps get rid of a number of diseases.

Ascorbic acid, which is contained in anise, has an antibacterial and antiviral effect, and also strengthens the immune system.

High levels of niacin normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and maintain normal cholesterol levels.


The main mineral in anise is potassium. Its share is 1440 milligrams per 100 grams of product. And, as you know, potassium and calcium are important for the functioning of the heart and the elasticity of blood vessels.

Iron is necessary for the prevention and treatment of anemia.

Anise seeds provoke contraction of the uterine muscles, so it is used for painful periods and to enhance labor.

By consuming anise, you can increase the amount of breast milk during lactation. And in this way the child will be able to get rid of flatulence and colic.

The plant increases sensitivity. Anise is considered a powerful aphrodisiac. To get rid of frigidity and increase potency, drink anise tea. In addition, it contains the hormone estrogen. It is necessary to increase the reproductive function of the body.

Anise tincture is used to get rid of thrush in the mouth. And also for the treatment of sore throat, bronchitis, laryngitis and tonsillitis.

Thanks to its effect, the effect of antibiotics taken is enhanced.

Anise oil along with egg white will help heal the burn.

Contraindications for use and harmful effects of anise

Despite the huge number of beneficial properties, anise can also have a harmful effect on human health. Therefore, before using it, you must be sure to familiarize yourself with the contraindications. It cannot be used if you have:

  • ulcerative colitis;
  • stomach or duodenal ulcer;
  • individual intolerance;
  • gastritis with high acidity;
  • pregnancy.

Long-term use can lead to allergic reactions on the skin and dermatitis. You should not use oils if your skin has rashes, redness, acne or cuts.

Anise provokes contraction of the muscles of the uterus, so during pregnancy it can cause premature birth. It should not be taken until labor begins. This is both a plus and a minus. Therefore, it should be remembered that at the beginning of pregnancy it is contraindicated, but at the end, on the contrary, it is recommended.

The plant increases appetite, so it is better for overweight people to limit its consumption or avoid it altogether.

Anise causes increased production of gastric juice, and in case of peptic ulcers, this will only harm the body.

Affecting the nervous system, it can cause slight malaise and dizziness.

Anise has a relatively small range of contraindications. Its impact on human health is more positive than negative. Any medicine must be used correctly. If you do not have an ulcer and are not pregnant, then you can safely treat yourself to anise tea and enjoy its pleasant aroma.

In the article we discuss the medicinal properties of anise and contraindications for consuming the spice. We will talk about options for using anise seeds in folk medicine. By following our tips, you will learn how to brew anise tea, prepare decoctions, water infusions and alcohol tinctures based on the spice.

Common anise is a herbaceous annual plant that is widely used in folk medicine. Infusions, decoctions and tinctures are prepared from the seeds and herbs of the plant.

Anise seeds are used in folk medicine

The benefits and harms of anise lie in its composition. The plant contains essential oils, protein substances, organic acids, camphene, fatty oils, dipentene, sugars. More than 80% of anise consists of anethole, an aromatic ester that gives the plant a sweetish-spicy aroma.

Anise is widely used in folk medicine. The seeds of the plant, less often the stems, are used as medicinal raw materials.

The use of anise herb is possible in cooking. Fresh leaves are added to salads and side dishes. Eating with anise herb improves digestion, eliminates pain in the stomach and intestines, and prevents constipation and flatulence. The beneficial properties of the anise herb explain its use in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Anise has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. These beneficial properties of anise are indispensable for inflammatory diseases of internal organs.

Anise seeds normalize the functioning of the liver and pancreas. Plant-based products reduce the acidity of gastric juice.

The beneficial properties of anise allow it to be used to treat diseases of the nervous system. Anise is a natural antidepressant. Plant-based products eliminate depression, stress, and lift your mood.

Anise enhances the effect of antibiotics. Therefore, products based on it should be used carefully while taking antibacterial drugs and only after consulting a doctor.

The medicinal properties of anise seeds help in the treatment of bronchopulmonary diseases. Plant-based products have expectorant and antipyretic effects.

You learned about anise and its medicinal properties. Next, we will talk about anise seeds and their use in home recipes.

The use of anise in folk medicine

Anise seeds are used in folk medicine. The medicinal properties of anise seeds are used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular, nervous and respiratory systems, painful menstruation in women and impotence in men.

Tea, decoctions, infusions and tinctures are made with anise

Medicines are prepared from anise, each of which has its own purpose and method of use. Since anise is a potent plant, preparations based on it should be used exclusively as prescribed by a doctor, strictly observing the dosage.

The course of taking anise preparations is 7 days. If it is necessary to repeat the dose, take a break for 2 weeks.

You learned about anise and what the plant is used for. Now let's look at recipes for preparing medicines based on spices.

Anise seed tea

Anise tea has a general strengthening effect. It is useful to drink during periods of exacerbation of infectious diseases.

Ingredients:

  1. Anise seeds - 1 teaspoon.
  2. Water - 200 ml.

How to cook: Pour boiling water over the anise seeds and let sit for 10 minutes.

How to use: Drink 1 glass of tea 2-3 times a day.

Result: Tea strengthens the immune system, normalizes digestion and calms the nervous system.

Anise decoction

Anise decoction is beneficial for inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system. The product is used to disinfect the mouth and gargle for colds.

Ingredients:

  1. Water - 250 ml.

How to cook: Pour water over the seeds, place in a water bath and bring to a boil. Cook the product for 10-15 minutes over low heat.

How to use: Take 1 tablespoon up to 4 times daily.

Result: Anise decoction effectively relieves pain and relieves inflammation.

Anise infusion

Anise is useful for coughs. An infusion of the plant is used to treat laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. The product stimulates the production of sputum and removes it from the body.

Ingredients:

  1. Anise seeds - 2 teaspoons.
  2. Licorice root - 10 gr.
  3. Water - 250 ml.

How to cook: Grind licorice root, combine with anise seeds and pour a glass of boiling water. Cover with a lid and let sit for an hour.

How to use: Take 1 tablespoon every 3 hours. Use a gargle 3-4 times a day.

Result: The infusion relieves sore throat and has an expectorant effect.

Anise tincture with vodka

Anise tincture is useful for disorders of the cardiovascular, nervous and genitourinary systems. The product is used not only internally, but also used externally to treat skin diseases.

Ingredients:

  1. Anise seeds - 40 gr.
  2. Vodka - 250 ml.

How to cook: Pour a glass of vodka over the seeds and leave the product for a week.

How to use: Take 20-25 drops 3 times a day, regardless of meals.

Result: Anise tincture normalizes heart rate and eliminates nervous excitement. When taken regularly, the product increases blood circulation in the pelvic organs and restores potency.

You learned about anise - the properties and use of the plant in folk medicine. Let us tell you how anise is useful for loss of voice.

Anise for loss of voice

Anise is used to treat hoarseness. A decoction of the plant softens the ligaments and restores the voice in 2-3 days.

Ingredients:

  1. Anise seeds - 1 tablespoon.
  2. Water - 250 ml.
  3. Linden honey - 1 teaspoon.

How to cook: Pour hot water over the anise seeds, bring to a boil in a water bath and cook covered for 15 minutes.

How to use: Take 1 tablespoon every half hour.

Result: The product eliminates hoarseness and normalizes the closure of ligaments.

Contraindications

The beneficial properties and contraindications of anise lie in its chemical composition. Uncontrolled consumption of anise leads to indigestion, nausea and general weakness of the body. Exceeding the dosage for oral administration leads to a burn of the gastric mucosa.

Anise - contraindications for use:

  • exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases;
  • periods of pregnancy and lactation;
  • individual intolerance.

You have learned the beneficial properties and contraindications of anise. Now we’ll tell you where you can buy medicinal spice.

For more information about anise, watch the video:

Where can I buy

Anise seeds can be purchased at any pharmacy or supermarket in the spice section. They are sold whole and ground. Price 100 gr. Anise seeds range from 80 to 100 rubles, depending on the manufacturer.

What to remember

  1. The beneficial properties and contraindications of anise seeds lie in its composition, which consists of 80-90% anethole. Plant-based products have a number of contraindications, which should be familiarized with before use.
  2. Anise seeds and herbs are used as medicinal raw materials.
  3. Anise has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant and antipyretic effects.
  4. The beneficial properties of anise herb are used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.