Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including those of the Mediterranean, Middle East, and South Asia. Traditionally, anise seeds have been used as a remedy to promote relaxation, reduce nervousness, and support sleep. The calming effects are believed to arise from its aromatic essential oils, primarily anethole, which may have mild sedative properties. Folk medicine frequently recommended anise infusions or teas for symptoms associated with anxiety, such as restlessness and insomnia.

While there is anecdotal and traditional support for the use of anise in alleviating anxiety, high-quality clinical evidence is limited. Some animal studies suggest that anise extracts may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly due to modulation of neurotransmitter pathways, but these findings have yet to be robustly replicated in humans. A small number of human studies have shown mild benefits in reducing symptoms of anxiety when anise is included as part of herbal mixtures, but isolating its effect from other ingredients is challenging. Overall, the evidence is primarily traditional, with only preliminary scientific support and a lack of large, well-controlled clinical trials. Thus, while anise continues to be used in traditional practices for anxiety, its efficacy remains to be conclusively demonstrated by modern research.

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