Anise is an herb with a history as old as human civilization. Records of its use goes back to the days of ancient Egypt, and continue through numerous ancient cultures, including Greece and Rome. By the time of the Middle Ages, it was seen throughout nearly all of Europe, spread rapidly by trade because of its popularity. While greatly enjoyed for its delicate appearance, sweet-smelling flowers and the licorice flavor of its seeds, anise had a great reputation as a medicinal herb, a use that is still valid today. Anise tea is still enjoyed today, and is a common home remedy for promoting respiratory health.
While we often do not pay attention to breathing, it is vital not only to our survival, but to the quality of our health. For those with poor respiratory health, life can be extremely difficult, as respiration has a direct impact on our energy, endurance, mental ability, stress levels and even more. Many things can interfere with good respiratory health. Some of the most common are:
Several of anise tea’s benefits can help to improve respiratory health, making breathing easier for those dealing with one of a variety of respiratory health issues. Those dealing with respiratory infection may be able to use it to shorten recovery time, as anise tea is equipped with several natural antibacterial and antiviral components that aid the immune system in eliminating infection. It is even more effective at helping to manage the symptoms of a respiratory infection. Some of its main constituents, thymol, terpineol and anethole in particular, help to ease coughing and chest congestion. Anise tea also serves as an expectorant, which prompts the drainage of mucous and helps to clear the airways. Its antispasmodic effect helps to relax the airways that may constrict or spasm because of irritants, and may help to reduce asthmatic symptoms.