Synopsis

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

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for digestive complaints, including constipation, particularly in children. In various cultures, especially in the Middle East and parts of Europe, anise seeds are steeped to make teas or decoctions, which are then given to children to relieve mild digestive discomfort, bloating, and occasionally to promote bowel movements. The rationale behind its use is largely based on anise’s carminative properties, which help to reduce gas and improve overall digestion, potentially aiding in more regular bowel movements.

However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of anise specifically for constipation in children is limited. Most modern studies on anise focus on its antispasmodic and carminative effects, and while these actions may indirectly support regular bowel function, there is a lack of robust clinical trials directly evaluating its use for pediatric constipation. Some herbal combinations containing anise have shown mild laxative effects in adults, but these results cannot be reliably extrapolated to children. Therefore, while anise continues to be used traditionally for childhood constipation, its use is not strongly validated by scientific research. Caution should be exercised, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before using anise for this purpose in children.

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