Anise Seed (Pimpinella anisum)
Digestion & comfortFunction & benefits
Aromatic seeds rich in anethole, traditionally used to ease digestive cramps, bloating and wind (EMA traditional use); a clinical trial suggests enteric-coated anise oil capsules eased the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Dosage & how to use
| Recommended dose | 1–2 g of seed powder (or 300–600 mg of standardised extract) |
| Best time to take | After a meal with a cup of warm water |
| Frequency | 1–3 times daily |
Best forms to choose
Anise seed powder or tea, or enteric-coated anise oil capsules.
Important warnings
Avoid it if you are allergic to the carrot family (celery, fennel, coriander)
Avoid the concentrated oil during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children, and with oestrogen-sensitive conditions
Drug interactions
In theory it may interfere with hormone therapy, contraceptive pills and tamoxifen, because anethole has a weak oestrogen-like effect.
Related supplements
- Standardized Ginger Root ExtractDigestion & comfort
- Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)Digestion & comfort
- Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)Digestion & comfort
- Cumin Seed Extract (Cuminum cyminum)Digestion & comfort
Scientific references
- Mosaffa-Jahromi M et al. J Ethnopharmacol 2016 — PMID: 27815079
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): European Union herbal monograph on Pimpinella anisum L., fructus
Content last updated: 17 October 2026 · Based on published sources and research (EFSA / NIH / PubMed)
⚖️ Medical disclaimer: The information and data provided here are for health education and nutritional guidance only. They are not a medical diagnosis and never replace a direct consultation with your doctor or pharmacist. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding or when taking long-term medication.