Tag: Aniseed side effects

While aniseed is a popular culinary spice, some individuals can experience adverse effects, with some studies showing aniseed can have an estrogen-like effect on the body. This makes it crucial for certain people to know who should not eat aniseed, especially in medicinal doses.

Historically used by the ancient Egyptians and Romans, aniseed (Pimpinella anisum) is far more than a flavorful spice. Beyond its distinct licorice-like taste, this potent seed has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for a variety of health-boosting properties.

Over 80 grams of sugar can be found in just 100 grams of typical aniseed balls, far outweighing the modest benefits of the anise seed itself. This classic retro sweet might remind you of childhood, but a closer look at its ingredients reveals a candy that is primarily sugar, not a health food. While anise seed has documented health properties, it is important to distinguish the whole herb from the heavily processed confectionery.

Historically, aniseed has been valued since ancient Egyptian times for its culinary and medicinal properties. This potent spice, known for its distinct licorice-like flavor, imparts a wide range of physiological effects on the body due to its rich composition of active compounds, particularly anethole.