What is Anise Extract?

Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), a member of the Apiaceae family, is an aromatic medicinal plant cultivated in the Mediterranean region and Asia. Its extracts and essential oils—rich in trans-anethole, estragole, coumarins, eugenol, and flavonoids—are valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. In cosmetics, anise extract is applied for skin rejuvenation, protection, and brightening, while its essential oil is used in aroma care and soothing formulations.

Biological Effects on Skin 

Antioxidant & Protective: Anethole and other phenolics neutralize free radicals, prevent lipid and protein oxidation, and boost the skin’s natural antioxidant defenses.

Anti-Inflammatory & Soothing: Downregulates IL-6 and TNF-α, reducing irritation and redness; estragole and eugenol calm sensitive or inflamed skin.

Antimicrobial & Purifying: Provides broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, helping control acne and support microbiome balance.

Skin Tone & Radiance: Regulates melanin synthesis and enhances antioxidant defense, promoting brighter, smoother, and more even skin tone.

Research Insights:

Bioactive Composition: Anise extract contains 1.5–5% essential oil rich in trans-anethole, estragole, anisaldehyde, and scopoletin, along with flavonoids and coumarins that work synergistically to deliver antioxidant and antimicrobial protection.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity: Demonstrates strong free radical scavenging capacity and effectively reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, highlighting its potent antioxidant and soothing properties for skin protection and repair.

Dermatological Potential: Proven antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal actions support its role in acne-prone or sensitive skin care, while its tissue-calming properties enhance overall skin comfort and recovery.

Applications

Cosmetic Use: Antioxidant serums, soothing creams, brightening lotions, and anti-acne tonics.

Therapeutic Use: Healing gels, anti-inflammatory formulations, and skin-protective products for sensitive or irritated skin.

Functional Claims: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, skin-brightening, and skin-soothing active.

Conclusion

Anise extract is a multifunctional botanical active delivering antioxidant protection, inflammation control, and skin clarity. Its rich profile of anethole, estragole, and flavonoids supports cellular defense, calms irritation, and refines tone. With its natural aromatic properties and broad therapeutic profile, anise extract is an ideal ingredient for protective, rejuvenating, and balancing skincare formulations.

References

Gulcin, I., Oktay, M., Kirecci, E., & Kufrevioglu, O.I. (2003). Screening of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) seed extracts. Food Chemistry, 83, 371–382. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814603000980

Shahrajabian, M.H., & Sun, W. (2023). Five Important Seeds in Traditional Medicine, and Pharmacological Benefits. Seeds, 2(3), 290–308. https://www.mdpi.com/2674-1024/2/3/22?utm_