Anise Seed

Anise seed

Description: Anise was cultivated by the ancient Egyptians as a delicious culinary spice.
Scientific Name: Pimpinella Anisum
Extraction Method: steam-distilled

Anise Seed Essential Oil

Sweet • Licorice • Soothing

Anise seed essential oil is distilled from the seeds (technically, the ripe fruit) of Pimpinella anisum, a plant in the Apiaceae family. Its aroma is warm, sweet, and strongly reminiscent of licorice or fennel, largely due to high concentrations of trans-anethole. Across many studies, the oil’s fragrance is described as penetrating and lasting, making it a potent addition to aromatherapy blends.

Extraction and Aroma

The oil is obtained by steam distillation of dried anise seeds. The yield typically ranges from about 1.5 % up to ~6 % depending on cultivar, growing conditions, seed maturity, and distillation parameters. One GC-MS study of anise seed oil from Lesvos Island identified monoterpenes such as limonene, sabinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, and γ-terpinene among the minor constituents. Lesvos Island Anise Seed Composition Study.

Cultural, Traditional Significance

Anise has a long history of use in traditional cuisines and herbal medicine. In Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian cultures, anise seeds and oil are used for flavoring breads, sweets, and beverages. Traditionally, the essential oil has been used for its soothing aroma and its use in remedies for cough, digestive discomfort, and respiratory congestion. A narrative review of pharmacological properties discusses these traditional uses and outlines the chemical agents believed responsible. Review of Anise Seed Properties and Constituents.

Chemical Composition

The predominant chemical constituent of anise seed essential oil is trans-anethole, often making up 70-95 % of the oil depending on the sample. Other minor but notable constituents include estragole, anise alcohol, p-anisaldehyde, and small amounts of limonene and fenchone. GC-MS studies show that very high trans-anethole content (> 90 %) correlates with stronger aroma and flavor in the oil. Antifungal and Composition Study of Anise Fruit Oil.

Uses in Aromatherapy and Functional Applications

Anise seed essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its warming, comforting, and uplifting aroma. It is often included in blends for respiratory aromatics, as its licorice-like scent complements herbs and spices. Because of its sweetness, it is also used sparingly in perfumery or fragrance oils to soften harsher notes. In functional applications, the oil’s antimicrobial and antioxidant properties have been explored, especially in preserving foods or as natural substitutes for harsher chemicals. Animal and cell-based studies show activity against bacterial and fungal strains. Antibacterial Study of Pimpinella anisum Essential Oil.

Safety and Precautions

Anise seed essential oil is powerful and should always be diluted before skin application. It may be irritating in higher concentrations. Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive mucous membranes. Use caution if pregnant, nursing, or in those with estrogen-sensitive conditions, due to mild estrogenic effects observed in some studies. Individuals with allergies to other Apiaceae plants should patch test first. Ingestion of the oil (rather than dietary use of seeds or flavorings) is not recommended without professional guidance. WebMD on Anise Safety.

References

Disclaimer: The above information relates to studies of specific individual essential oil ingredients, some of which are used in the essential oil blends for various MONQ diffusers. Please note, however, that while individual ingredients may have been shown to exhibit certain independent effects when used alone, the specific blends of ingredients contained in MONQ diffusers have not been tested. No specific claims are being made that use of any MONQ diffusers will lead to any of the effects discussed above. Additionally, please note that MONQ diffusers have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. MONQ diffusers are not intended to be used in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, prevention, or treatment of any disease or medical condition. If you have a health condition or concern, please consult a physician or your alternative health care provider prior to using MONQ diffusers. MONQ blends should not be inhaled into the lungs.Why? It works better that way