Anise

The delightful licorice-like scent and taste of this herb flavors pharmaceuticals, confections, toothpaste, "licorice" candy (in the U.S.) and alcoholic beverages such as French anisette and Greek ouzo. Anise reduces muscle spasms, indigestion, and coughing. It is also mildly estrogenic, and an aphrodisiac. It increases breast milk, balances emotions, induces sleep, and helps overcome nervousness and workaholic stress. Anise is even said to improve your sense of humor and overcome heartache. Large quantities, however, may be narcotic, slow down circulation, and cause skin rashes in sensitive people.