Anise (Pimpinella anisum)
EMA-monograph traditional European seed for cough and dyspepsia, also EMA-monograph essential oil.
Why
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) seed holds two EMA HMPC Traditional Use monographs: one for symptoms of mild dyspepsia such as bloating and flatulence, and one for relief of cough associated with cold. Both seed and essential oil have separate monographs. Distinct from star anise (Illicium verum), which is a different botanical family but with similar trans-anethole content.
How it works
Trans-anethole (the principal essential oil component) has spasmolytic effects on gastrointestinal and respiratory smooth muscle, plus mild expectorant action. Estrogenic activity at higher doses documented mechanistically.
Expected onset · Symptomatic relief within hours
How to take
Dosage
Dried seeds: 1–3 g as infusion (crush before brewing), three times daily.
Timing
After meals (dyspepsia) or during symptomatic phase (cough)
On the label
Pimpinella anisum (European anise), distinct from star anise (Illicium verum), pernod-flavour anise. Crushed or ground seeds release more essential oil in infusion.
Ideal for
Adults with mild dyspepsia, flatulence, or productive cough exploring European-tradition seeds and infusions.
Safety
Evidence
EMA classifies both anise seed and anise essential oil at Traditional Use for cough and dyspepsia. Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Where to get it
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