Geographical Origin & Distribution:
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) and its seeds, commonly referred to as aniseed, have ancient origins and have been used for thousands of years for culinary and medicinal purposes. Anise is believed to be native to the eastern Mediterranean region and parts of Southwest Asia. Some historical sources suggest that it originated specifically in Egypt and the Levant (modern-day countries like Lebanon, Israel, and Syria). The cultivation and use of anise spread from the Mediterranean region to Asia, Europe, and eventually the Americas, where it became a key ingredient in various cuisines and herbal remedies. It is important to note that anise (Pimpinella anisum) is distinct from star anise (Illicium verum), which is a star-shaped fruit from a tree native to China. While both have similar flavors due to the presence of anethole, they belong to different plant families.
Historical Use
Aniseed has a long history of use in traditional medicine, culinary arts, and religious practices. From ancient Egyptian remedies to modern cough syrups, aniseed has remained a consistent part of human healthcare and culinary traditions for thousands of years.
Medical Use
Pimpinella anisum, commonly known as anise or aniseed, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its various health benefits. The seeds, oil, and sometimes the roots of the plant are used medicinally.
Leaves:
The basal leaves near the bottom of the plant are broad and feathery, resembling those of parsley or cilantro. They are round-lobed and may have toothed edges. As you move up the stem, the leaves become smaller, narrower, and more finely divided, resembling a fern-like structure.
Flowers:
The tiny flowers (about 3 mm) are white, or yellowish-white and appear in umbrella-shaped clusters called umbels. Each umbel can have 6 to 13 rays, and the flowers bloom in mid to late summer.
Seeds:
After flowering, the plant produces oval, ridged seeds called aniseed. These seeds are grayish-brown to greenish-gray, about 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) long, and have a sweet, licorice-like flavor due to the presence of anethole. The seeds are often harvested once the umbels begin to dry out, as they are the most valuable part of the plant in both culinary and medicinal applications.
Size:
The annual plant typically grows to a height of about 45 to 60 cm, although in some cases, it can reach up to 90 cm.
Growing Conditions:
Anise prefers warm, sunny climates and thrives in regions with long, hot summers. It is sensitive to cold temperatures and frost. It grows best in well-drained, light soil, such as sandy loam. Anise prefers soil with a neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.5) and doesn’t tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Active Substances
- Anethole: It is widely used in flavoring food and drinks, and also in herbal remedies for digestive issues and respiratory problems.
- Estragole: Estragole has a sweet, anise-like flavor and aroma. While it is similar to anethole in structure, estragole has some antimicrobial properties but is used less in medicinal applications due to safety concerns regarding its long-term use.
- Limonene: Limonene contributes to the citrus-like note in anise’s flavor profile. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and is often used in natural remedies for digestive and skin healt
- Pinene: It has a fresh, pine-like aroma and exhibits antibacterial and bronchodilator effects, making it useful in treating respiratory issues.
- Safrole: Safrole contributes a slightly spicy note to the overall flavor profile. It is known for its aromatic properties but is used with caution due to its potential toxicity in large amounts
- Eugenol: Eugenol is a phenolic compound with antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a local anesthetic in some natural remedies.
- Fatty Acids: These contribute to overall health, particularly in improving skin health and supporting metabolic functions.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol, and other flavonoids present in anise have antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Phenolic Compounds: Those are contributing to the plant’s overall health benefits, including immune support.
- Coumarins: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and is sometimes used for sun protection and skin healing in herbal preparations.
Chemical Breakdown (per 100g)
Essential Oil: 2-6 g
Anethole: 1.6-5.4 g (80-90% of the essential oil)
Estragole: 0.1-0.6 g (5-10% of the essential oil)
Limonene: traces
Pinene: traces
Eugenol: traces
Flavonoids: traces
Phenolic Compounds: traces
Coumarins: traces
Fatty Acids: traces
Tannins: traces
Sterols: traces
Uses of Anise oil and Aniseed for Horses & Dogs
While aniseed is not typically dangerous in very small quantities for dogs (like in training treats), it’s important to avoid excessive use. For safe and effective dietary or behavioral solutions for your dog, always seek advice from a professional or stay within the professionally recommended doses.
- Digestive Health:
- Aniseed is believed to have digestive properties and can help with gastrointestinal issues in horses. It may help alleviate gas, colic, and bloating. For dogs, only very small quantities are recommended.
- Respiratory Health:
- Aniseed is thought to have expectorant properties and can help soothe the respiratory system. It may be beneficial for horses with coughs or respiratory conditions.
- Flavouring:
- Aniseed is often used to enhance the taste of horse feed. Horses can be picky eaters, and adding aniseed to their feed can make it more palatable and encourage them to eat.
- Calming Properties:
- Aniseed is sometimes used to help calm nervous or anxious horses. Its aroma is believed to have a soothing effect on the nervous system.
- Masking Medication:
- Aniseed’s strong aroma can help mask the taste of medications that horses might otherwise refuse to ingest. This can be particularly useful when administering oral medications.
- Smell:
- Like cats with catnip, some dogs are attracted to the smell of aniseed. It can stimulate playful behavior in some dogs and is sometimes used in scent-based training for activities like scent work or tracking.
Additional Sources: National Center for Biotechnology Information; Cogent Biology Journals 2019