Anise Seed Essential Oil

Botanical Name:Pimpinella anisum

Also known as 'Sweet Cumin', Aniseed is a small, delicate annual herb native to Greece and Egypt. Anise seeds are reddish-brow, ovoid in shape and have a distinctly black licorice-like flavor and aroma profile.

This pure anise seed essential oil is steam distilled from the seeds of dried ripe fruit of Anise grown in its native Egypt. An annual herb, Aniseed stands less than a meter high with delicate leaves and small white flowers. Although originating in Egypt and Greece, it is now cultivated in India, China, Mexico and Spain for varying purposes.Ancient Egyptians cultivated anise as a medicinal and culinary spice and it was later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. Trans-anethole is the natural constituent that provides the licorice-like aroma that is similar to, yet sweeter than that of Fennel. The oil has traditionally been used to add flavor to various culinary ventures from candy and baked goods to curry dishes. Anise also earned the moniker "the fisherman's friend" when it was added to soaps to aid fisherman in removing the smell on their skin.A clean, sweetly-spiced top note mingles with a strong black licorice middle note to create an uplifting, energizing, mildly euphoric and sensually enhancing effect.Antiseptic (mild), Antispasmodic, Carminative, Expectorant, Galactagogue, Stimulant, Stomachic.Psychological:

• Replenishes mental stamina
• Beneficial in recovery from chronic fatigue
• Grounding, calming, and nourishing
• Supports inner peace
• Aids with confidence with extreme shyness or introversion

Digestive System:

• Relieves dyspepsia, colic and flatulence (Fennel is considered more effective in this regard)
• Quells nausea and soothe stomach cramps (as do Roman Chamomile and Ginger)

Genito-Urinary System:

• Calms uterine cramping (menstrual cramps)

Hormonal System:

• Contains a higher percentage of trans-anethole than Fennel, therefore it has more pronounced estrogen-like effects. (Though the 'trans' form may be less potent, it is perhaps a safer alternative to the anethole in Fennel).

Respiratory System:

• Clears and opens bronchi and lungs
• Can quell asthmatic symptoms
• Calms chronic coughing

Topical applications are common due to the oil's warming and comforting properties and therefore makes a good aromatherapy addition in massage blends.

To quell stomach cramps and nausea, add a few drops of Anise to a teaspoon of a carrier oil in the palm of a hand and then massaged into the stomach area. Adults may try a combination of the Anise, Roman Chamomile, and Fennel essential oils to find what works best for each individual. (Roman Chamomile used alone is the best choice for young children.)Anise may also be inhaled through a diffuser or ingested orally. Herbalists recommend 2-4 drops taken internally in warm water, or 1-2 drops with a small amount of natural sweetener. Internal use is not recommended for children.

Known for it's propensity to bring about happiness.Include Anise in hand-fasting and Wedding cakes to bring both protection and fertility. A visionary herb that is said to assist one in attracting their romantic partner.

Anise essential oil is considered non-toxic, a non-irritant and non-sensitizing. Always test a small amount of Anise seed oil first for sensitivity or allergic reaction. It should not be used during pregnancy, or taken internally while breast-feeding. Avoid use with inflammatory skin conditions. Lastly, due to it's estrogen-like effects, those with an estrogen-dependent illness are to avoid Anise essential oil.