Aniseed , also known as anise, belongs to the plant family of Apiaceae. Its botanical term is Pimpenella Anisum. It is native to the Mediterranean region and Southeast Asia. Aniseed is usually cultivated for flavouring in culinary dishes. Its flavor resembles a lot to that of star anise, fennel and licorice. The aniseed was first cultivated in Egypt. Its cultivation spread across Europe as its medicinal value was recognized. Aniseed grow best in light and fertile soil.

Ancient Romans used to serve spiced cakes with aniseed in them for better digestion of the meal. It is also very commonly used to make alcoholic drinks such as root beer. Since the ancient times, aniseed has been thought to help with menstrual cramps and diseases like colic.

In the 1860’s, an American Civil War nurse used aniseed as an antiseptic. However its usage was discontinued for this purpose as it was found to increase high levels of toxicity in the blood.

Nowadays, aniseed is being used not only for its flavoring but to produce essential oils and hydrosol. The hydrosol of aniseed is very safe to use, unlike the essential oil to which some may be allergic. The hydrosol is produced during the steam distillation process of the aniseed essential oil. The water that is the by-product of the essential oil is not toxic and still contains the benefits and nutrients of the aniseed. Here are some of the uses and benefits of aniseed hydrosol:

• Sedative And Calming Effect

Aniseed hydrosol is known to have sedating and calming effects on the user. By spraying it in your room or your house, inhaling it can help you get rid of your stress and anxiety. It can even assist in giving you a good night’s sleep.

• Bath And Aromatherapy

As already said, inhaling aniseed hydrosol can help you avoid anxiety and get rid of stress. This hydrosol is also used very commonly during aromatherapy. Add a splash of it to your bath water and inhale it while you bathe. It not only gives you a clean and fresh smell, it cleanses your mind. You can even use aniseed hydrosol when you meditate.

• Air Freshener And Deodorant

Aniseed hydrosol has components which are all natural. No chemical additives are included. This makes it great to be sprayed in your house to give a fresh licorice like aroma. Don’t spray too much in case you don’t like licorice. The smell spreads very quickly. It make the environment of the house relaxing and calming. Moreover, you can even use it as a body mist or deodorant. Swap it with your chemical filled deodorant and enjoy feeling fresh.

• Linen And Clothes Spray

You can spray aniseed hydrosol onto your linens and clothes. It won’t leave any stains like an essential oil or perfume does. Plus, it makes ironing your clothes very easy. You can add it to your steam iron.

If you love the smell of licorice, aniseed hydrosol will be a good choice for you. You can add it to your skin care and hair care products for the scent. Till date, there is no research that aniseed hydrosols can be detrimental for your health.