As a spice, aniseed is often used as a flavoring or baking ingredient, particularly in Asian cuisines. It is a plant that grows in the anise family and has a distinctive flavor that is like licorice. In Ghana, it is known as “nkitinkiti”. This ingredient can be used to make a large variety of dishes including desserts, drinks, and savory dishes. Traditional medicine uses aniseed for treating a variety of ailments throughout history. In spite of this, it is important to note that anise can be harmful if consumed in large quantities, so it is important to use it sparingly and in small quantities.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANISEED

It is packed with nutrients: Though anise seed is used in relatively small amounts, it packs a good amount of several important micronutrients into each serving.

Anise seed has a high iron content, which is necessary for the production of healthy blood cells.

There is also a small amount of manganese in it, a mineral important for metabolism, and development, and acting as an antioxidant.

 

May reduce symptoms of depression: Human and animal

studies reveal that anise seed may help reduce symptoms of depression and may

be as effective as some types of antidepressants.

 

Protection against and healing of stomach ulcers: Anise reduces stomach acid secretion, helping prevent the formation of stomach ulcers and protecting cells against damage.

 

Prevents the growth of fungi and bacteria: Studies show that anise seed and its compounds possess potent antimicrobial properties that prevent infections and block the growth of fungi and bacteria, including yeasts and dermatophytes, a type of fungus that can cause skin disease. Anethole, the active ingredient in anise seed, inhibits bacterial growth as well.

Helps relieve menopausal symptoms: Aniseed mimics the effects of estrogen in the body, relieving symptoms such as hot flashes and bone loss.

 

Balance blood sugar levels: Anethole helps reduce high blood sugar by altering the levels of several key enzymes. Anethole also enhances the function of pancreas cells that produce insulin.

 

Reduces Inflammation: Anise seed is high in antioxidants and can reduce

inflammation to help prevent chronic disease.

 

Preventing heart disease: Anise contains coumarin, flavonoids, and malic acid, which are bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory action. These can help to improve blood circulation and prevent clot formation, which play a role in preventing diseases like stroke, heart attack and thrombosis.

Other benefits of organic aniseed include;

Relieving symptoms of cough and cold

Reducing anxiety symptoms 

Alleviating menstrual cramps 

Improves digestion 

Promotes good oral health and fresh breath 

Prevents and treats anemia due to the presence of iron

 

 

 

Anise tea

You can use anise tea to relieve headaches, stomach upset, and cold and flu symptoms, like coughing, runny nose, and phlegm. 

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon of dried anise seeds 

1 cup of water 

How to prepare: Smash or chop the anise seeds. Boil the water and remove from heat. Now, pour the water into a cup and add the anise teas. Then cover and soak the seeds for 10 minutes. Then strain and drink. You can drink up to 3 cups of this tea per day for up to 2 weeks.

Do not boil aniseed for too long because it might end up vaporizing the essential oil in it. It can also lose many of its therapeutic qualities.

You can also use aniseed in baked goods, fruit-filled pies, and ground meat before baking.

You can add it to soups and stews also.

 

PRECAUTION

 

Most people can safely consume anise, but without the risk of adverse side effects.

However, it could trigger an allergic reaction, especially if you’re allergic to plants in the same family — such as fennel, celery, parsley, or dill.

Additionally, anise’s estrogen-mimicking properties could worsen symptoms of hormone-sensitive conditions, like breast cancer or endometriosis. 

If you have a history of these conditions, then keep intake in moderation.

Anise contains coumarin and therefore anyone on anticoagulants should not take it.

Therefore, if combined with a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle, anise seed could improve several aspects of your health.

You can buy organic Aniseeds from us.