Anise Seed Tea for Digestive Health
Anise can be easily identified growing wild across the warm regions of the Mediterranean. Its delicate white flowers and fern-like leaves show a resemblance to its relatives, wild carrot and Queen Anne’s Lace. However, its most distinguishable feature is its scent, which is reminiscent of licorice. This comes from the essential oil found in its seeds, which gives the seeds a licorice scent as well as taste. Sometimes called aniseed, the spice made from anise seeds has been popularized in countries across the world, used in various culinary applications. Naturally, these seeds also make a delicious and soothing cup of herbal tea.
Common Causes of Indigestion
Nearly everyone has experienced some form of indigestion during their lifetime, with a large portion of them experiencing symptoms of indigestion multiple times a year. For some, indigestion can be a monthly, weekly, even daily occurrence. While there are many diseases and health conditions that can result in indigestion, there are also many external and lifestyle factors that can cause or worsen digestive upset, some of which are completely manageable.
Bad Eating Habits: Many of us eat too much food, or eat it too quickly. In doing so, we leave our digestive system stuffed with more food than it is able to process, slowing it down and resulting in indigestion. This is also damaging as it often means many of the important micronutrients we need from our food end up not being absorbed into our system, causing a nutrient deficiency.
Fatty Foods: Foods that are high in fat and grease are more difficult to digest than other foods, and can lead to digestive upset as well. Spicy foods can also be problematic, as they may aggravate those prone to heartburn or reflux.
Food Intolerance: Food allergies or food intolerance can vary between individuals, but it can cause numerous digestive issues for those who have them. Lactose intolerance limits many people from eating dairy products, while those with celiac disease cannot handle even small amounts of gluten.
Problem Foods: Certain foods are likely to cause indigestion in those who are prone to it. Foods with caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages can all irritate those with sensitive digestive systems. Limiting the intake of these foods can reduce these problems.
Lifestyle Habits: Those who lead inactive, sedentary lifestyles are more prone to digestive health issues. Lack of exercise slows down the body’s metabolism, which in turn affects its ability to digest food for nutrients. This also leads to indigestion due to the slowed digestive system.
Smoking: Better known for causing respiratory distress, smoking also contributes to digestive issues. Smoking can cause heartburn, and increase the risk of Chrohn’s disease.
Stress: Stress has a significant impact on physical health, particularly the digestive system. Many people with sensitive digestions will experience digestive upset in times of duress.
Medication: Several prescription and over-the-counter medicines have side effects that can affect the digestive system. Upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea are all common side effects of numerous medications.
How Anise Seed Tea Supports Digestion
Anise seed tea promotes digestive function in a number of ways. Because of its antispasmodic effect, it is highly beneficial for easing digestive upset. This effect gives it the ability to calm an upset stomach or an overactive bowel, both of which are common in cases of indigestion. It may also help to ease feelings of nausea. By helping to eliminate the buildup of gases in the digestive system, anise seed tea can bring relief to issues such as bloating and flatulence. It has also been used to stimulate the appetite for those who may struggle with eating disorders or have reduced appetite due to medication.
