Anise Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Anise Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Anise is a spice plant commonly found in the Eastern Mediterranean region, Spain, West Asia, Mexico, Egypt, and the Middle East. It is generally considered safe for culinary and medicinal use when consumed in amounts commonly found in food. Both anise and anise oil have been recognized as safe by the US FDA. However, there is limited information available about the safety of anise for children and pregnant or lactating women when used in medicinal amounts.

How Is Anise Thought to Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

Anise contains various compounds such as eugenol, trans-anethole, cis-anethole, methylchavicol, anisaldehyde, estragole, anisketone, linalool, coumarins, scopeletin, umbelliferone, estrols, and beta-farnesene. The primary component responsible for its licorice-like taste and odor is anethole. Anise is believed to have analgesic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, antidiuretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, anxiolytic, estrogenic, gastroprotective, insecticidal, muscle relaxant, neurological, respiratory, and wound healing effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action.

Pharmacokinetics

There is insufficient reliable information available about the pharmacokinetics of anise.

Interaction Overview (See Full List At Bottom Of Page)

Anise may interact with certain drugs and supplements, including acetaminophen, antidiabetes drugs, caffeine, codeine, contraceptive drugs, diazepam, estrogens, fluoxetine, imipramine, midazolam, and tamoxifen. It is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any of these medications.

Common Side Effects to Watch For

When used orally, anise is generally well tolerated. However, contact dermatitis may occur in sensitive individuals when anise is applied topically. Anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction, is rare but possible when anise is taken orally by sensitive individuals.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Anise supplements are available in various forms, including powder, oil, and extract. Standardization may vary depending on the specific product. It is advisable to choose products from reputable manufacturers that follow good manufacturing practices.

What Is Anise Typically Used For?

Anise has been traditionally used for various purposes, but there is insufficient reliable evidence to support its effectiveness in treating specific conditions. Some of the conditions for which anise has been of interest include asthma, constipation, depression, diabetes, dysmenorrhea, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactation, lice, menopausal symptoms, migraine headache, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and promoting lactation. However, more research is needed to determine the true efficacy of anise for these uses.

Drugs that interact with Anise