Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) has a long history of traditional use as a remedy for coughs, particularly spastic (or spasmodic) coughs, in various systems of traditional medicine including Unani, Ayurveda, and European folk medicine. The seeds of anise contain essential oils, primarily anethole, which are believed to have mild expectorant, antispasmodic, and carminative effects. Traditional herbalists have recommended anise preparations—such as teas, syrups, and lozenges—to soothe the throat, reduce coughing fits, and ease respiratory discomfort.

While these traditional uses are well-documented, robust scientific validation is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that anise extracts possess antispasmodic and mild bronchodilatory properties, likely due to their essential oil content. These findings provide a plausible mechanism for its use in spastic cough, but human clinical trials are scarce and generally of low quality. Most evidence supporting anise for cough relief is therefore anecdotal or based on historical texts.

In summary, anise is primarily used for spastic cough based on tradition, with some weak pharmacological evidence supporting its historical use but lacking strong clinical data. It remains a common ingredient in traditional cough remedies, but should not be relied upon as a sole therapy for severe or persistent coughs.

More about anise
More about Cough (spastic)

Other ingredients used for Cough (spastic)

Other health conditions supported by anise

Products containing anise

Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System