Skip to content
Anise is a plant that has been used in kitchens and traditional healing methods for many years. It is known for both its flavor and health benefits. Anise has a sweet and spicy aroma and is especially famous for supporting digestive health. Thanks to its ability to ease digestion and its relaxing properties, it has been popular across many cultures from ancient times to the present. Today, exploring the benefits of anise and how to incorporate it into our daily lives is a fascinating subject.
Nutritional Values of Anise (per 100 grams)
- Calories: 337 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50.3 g (17% of daily needs)
- Fiber: 18.5 g (74% of daily needs)
- Protein: 17.9 g (36% of daily needs)
- Fat: 15.9 g (24% of daily needs)
- Saturated Fat: 1.1 g (6% of daily needs)
- Sodium: 16 mg (1% of daily needs)
- Potassium: 1121 mg (32% of daily needs)
- Calcium: 440 mg (44% of daily needs)
- Iron: 36.3 mg (203% of daily needs)
Vitamins and Minerals in Anise
- Vitamin C: 21 mg (35% of daily needs)
- Benefits: Strengthens the immune system, improves skin health, and has antioxidant properties.
- Vitamin A: 0 IU
- Benefits: Supports vision health and skin health.
- Vitamin B6: 0.3 mg (23% of daily needs)
- Benefits: Supports brain function, plays a role in energy production, and strengthens the nervous system.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 180 mcg (45% of daily needs)
- Benefits: Supports cell division, especially important during pregnancy.
- Calcium: 440 mg (44% of daily needs)
- Benefits: Maintains bone health, supports muscle function, and is essential for nerve transmission.
- Iron: 36.3 mg (203% of daily needs)
- Benefits: Increases the body’s oxygen-carrying capacity and reduces the risk of anemia.
Benefits of Anise
- Supports Digestive Health:
Anise is especially beneficial for the digestive system. It can help with issues like indigestion, bloating, and gas due to its soothing properties. It is also commonly used to relieve stomach cramps. With its digestion-boosting and relaxing effects, it contributes to a more efficient digestive system. - Boosts the Immune System:
Anise contains a high amount of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C increases the body’s resistance to illnesses and protects cells from free radicals, making you more resistant to infections. - Antioxidant Effects:
Anise is a rich source of antioxidants. These antioxidants fight free radicals in the body, preventing cell damage and slowing down the aging process. They may also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer. - Supports Women’s Health:
Anise offers significant benefits for women. It can help relieve pain during menstruation and balance hormone levels. It may also support hormone regulation during menopause. - Contributes to Bone Health:
With its high calcium content, anise helps maintain bone health and strengthens bones. It can be protective against bone loss issues like osteoporosis. It also supports muscle functions, preventing muscle cramps. - Supports Brain Function:
Anise contains vitamin B6, which supports brain functions. It improves memory, enhances concentration, and reduces mental fatigue. Additionally, it may help lower stress levels, improving overall mood.
Side Effects of Anise
- Allergic Reactions:
Anise can cause allergic reactions in some people, including skin rashes, itching, or swelling. - Risk During Pregnancy:
Excessive consumption of anise during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women should use it with caution. - Breastfeeding Mothers:
Overconsumption of anise can affect milk production in breastfeeding mothers, so it’s advised to consume it in moderation. - Hormonal Imbalances:
Anise contains a compound that can mimic estrogen. This could lead to hormonal imbalances. - Drug Interactions:
Anise may interact with certain medications. People undergoing hormone therapy or using certain blood pressure medications should be cautious. - Digestive Issues:
Excessive consumption of anise can lead to digestive problems like nausea or diarrhea.
Who Should Avoid Using Anise?
- Pregnant Women:
Anise use is not recommended during pregnancy as it may lead to miscarriage. Pregnant women should avoid consuming anise. - Breastfeeding Mothers:
Excessive anise consumption can change milk production. Breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before use. - People on Hormone Therapy:
Since anise has estrogen-like effects, people undergoing hormone therapy should consult their doctor before using it. - People with Allergies:
Those allergic to anise may experience skin reactions or swelling. People with allergies should avoid using it. - Children:
Anise use in young children may lead to some health risks. A doctor’s approval should be sought to ensure its safety for children.
Anise is a beneficial plant but needs to be used carefully and correctly. If you experience any side effects or discomfort, stop using it and consult a doctor.
Delicious Recipes with Anise and Their Nutritional Values
Anise Tea
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of anise seeds
- 1 cup of hot water
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
Preparation:
- Add 1 teaspoon of anise seeds to 1 cup of hot water.
- Let the seeds steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy hot.
Nutritional Values (per cup):
- Calories: 22 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5.3 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Fiber: 0.9 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
Anise Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of flour
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of anise seeds
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and anise seeds in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk butter, sugar, egg, and milk.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and knead the dough.
- Shape the dough into walnut-sized pieces and place them on a baking tray.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes and serve warm.
Nutritional Values (per cookie, total of 10 cookies):
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Fat: 4.2 g
- Fiber: 0.6 g
- Sodium: 52 mg
Aniseed Couscous
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fine bulgur
- 1 teaspoon of anise seeds
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon of pomegranate molasses
- 2 fresh green onions (chopped)
- 1/2 cup of chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mint
Preparation:
- Soak the bulgur in hot water and cover it for 10-15 minutes.
- Lightly roast the anise seeds in a pan.
- Add the roasted anise, olive oil, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses to the bulgur.
- Mix in the green onions, parsley, and mint.
- Stir well and serve cold.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Aniseed Fruit Compote
Ingredients:
- 2 apples
- 1 pear
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon of anise seeds
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- 4 cups of water
Preparation:
- Peel and chop the apples and pear.
- Add water, cinnamon stick, and anise seeds to a pot.
- Once boiling, add the fruits and honey.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until the fruits soften.
- Pour into glasses and serve cold.
Nutritional Values (per serving, total of 4 servings):
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
Conclusion
Anise inspires many useful and tasty recipes in the kitchen. It’s not only a flavor enhancer but also a plant with digestive aids, immune system support, and protective properties against various diseases. You can explore the benefits of anise in cooking with the recipes provided above and enjoy it in a healthy way
Click to Read ‘ Benefits of Purple Basil ‘
