Anise has also been used for centuries in European herbalism to treat coughs and indigestion. An appetite stimulant and a digestive aid, anise also increases semen, cures disease caused by gas, and soothes fevers and burning sensations.
Anise herb relieves gas pains and bloating. Other traditional uses include colic, rheumatism, and the familiar licorice-flavor in cough drops
The seeds also have mild estrogenic effects. This is why the seeds have been used traditionally to promote lactation in nursing mothers, increase libido and to relief symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Anise should not be used during pregnancy and a health care provider should be consulted before the use by nursing mothers.