Aniseed

Indian name of Aniseed is Velaiti saunf. Aniseed is one of the oldest spices and is the fruit of Anise,(Pimpinella Anisum), a herb belonging to the ajwain or celery family. Aniseed was cultivated by ancient Egyptians. Anise oil is a colourless or pale-yellow liquid, with the characteristic odour and taste of the fruit.

Anise oil present in Aniseed makes it widely used in medicine. It is regarded as a relaxing expectorant, and is spasmolytic, carminative, antiseptic, parasiticide, aromatic. The oil can be used as an ointment base for the treatment of scabies and lice infestations. Folk medicine uses aniseed to increase milk secretion, facilitate birth and increase libido.