Pimpinella Anisum
The essential oil of Anise is extracted by steam distillation of dried fruits of anise or Pimpinella Anisum of the Umbelliferae family. It has a pungent liquorice-like smell and is also known as anise and sweet cumin.
This warm, spicy essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to ease the discomfort of introverted and fearful people, while aiding the digestion, boosting the lungs and easing migraines and headaches.
It originated from the Middle East but now is cultivated in Europe, USA and North Africa. Aniseed oil was revered by ancient civilizations, especially by the Romans, Egyptians and Greeks. The Romans used it in a spicy cake know as 'mustaceus', the Egyptians used it in bread, while the Greeks used it for its calming influence on the digestive tract.
Aniseed is used in liqueurs and cordials, toothpastes and mouthwashes. In India it is used as a breath sweetener and in Turkey, a popular alcoholic drink called 'raki ' is made from the seeds.
Common Uses
Pain Relief: Aniseed oil has been traditionally used as a pain reliver specially for muscle pain and inflammatory discomfort. It stimulates blood circulation and reduces the sensation of pain in affected areas. It is a relaxant and antispasmodic, and this gives relief from from spasms like cramps, cough, aches, diarrhoea etc.
Healing of wounds: This essential oil also has antiseptic properties which give wounds an effective protective layer against infections and sepsis. This aids in the faster healing of wounds.
Help fights against Cold and Flu: The warming effect of this oil on the respiratory and the circulatory systems makes it a cordial. This property helps counter colds, the deposition of phlegm, and problems like rheumatism and arthritis. It is also very effective in clearing congestion in the lungs and the respiratory tracts for conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
Reduce symptoms of Depression: Due to its somewhat narcotic or numbing effects, it is used as a sedative for anxiety, nervous afflictions, depression, anger, and stress as well as for symptoms such as insomnia due to its tranquilizing and relaxing effects.
Product Color: Clear
Blends Well With: Cardamom, Caraway, Coriander, Dill, Fennel, Mandarin, Rosewood, Bay, Black Pepper, Lavender, Orange, Pine, Rose, Thyme,
Caution: Avoid during pregnancy and with sensitive skin. It can cause possible sensitization in some individuals, so use in very low concentration only. It is important to note that all Essential Oils are extremely concentrated in nature and if to be applied on the skin or body, should always be diluted upto a maximum dosage of 4% in a suitable carrier oil.
