Shatapushpa (Anise Seed)
Anise (Anise Seed)
Pimpinella anisum
Sweet, warming seed for digestion, coughs and colic.
Anise plant · Herb · Parts: Seed, Leaf
- Taste (rasa)
- Sweet, Pungent
- Energy (virya)
- Heating
- Balances
- Vata, Kapha
What it is used for
Benefits
- Relieves bloating, gas and digestive cramps
- Soothes dry coughs and chest congestion
- Traditionally used to support lactation
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Anise is a sweet, warming digestive seed with a gentle expectorant action — the kitchen spice for colic and coughs.
Traditional uses
- Bloating, gas and cramping after meals
- Dry coughs and congested chests
- Traditional support for milk supply
Practical guidance
- 1Chew a few seeds after a heavy meal, or steep as tea.
- 2The oil is potent and should be used in tiny drops, not freely.
- 3Avoid large doses in pregnancy.
How much
Dosage
1-2 g seeds as tea, or 0.3-2 ml essential oil in appropriate dilution.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Anise tea
Lightly crush 1 tsp seeds and steep in hot water for 10 minutes.
After meals or for coughs
Digestive chew
Chew a small pinch of seeds after a heavy meal.
After meals
Read this first
Precautions
- Avoid large doses in pregnancy
- Use essential oil only in tiny, diluted amounts
- Caution with hormone-sensitive conditions
Where this comes from
Sources
Where to buy
Shop this remedy
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If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.