FWD 2 Commission E: Fixed Combinations of Anise seed, Fennel seed and Caraway seed

  The Commission E Monographs

Fixed Combinations of Anise seed, Fennel seed and Caraway seed


Published August 13, 1991

Composition of Drug

Fixed combinations consisting of:

Anise seed corresponding to April 11, 1988 ( B.  Anz. p.  2943);
Fennel seed corresponding to March 11, 1991 ( B.  Anz. p.  2742);
Caraway seed corresponding to December 14, 1989 ( B.  Anz. 22a, February 1, 1990);

and their preparations in effective dosage.  

Uses

Dyspeptic discomfort, especially with mild spasms of the gastrointestinal region, flatulence, and a sensation of fullness.  

Contraindications

Oversensitivity to anise, fennel, or anethole.  

Pregnancy:

  • Preparations other than teas and preparations with essential oil contents comparable to those of teas.  

Side Effects

In individual cases, allergic reactions of the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract.  

Interactions with Other Drugs

None known.  

Dosage

Unless otherwise prescribed:

The individual components of the combination must each be present at 30 - 55 percent of the amounts recommended as daily dosage in the monographs for the individual herbs.  

Mode of Administration

Comminuted drug for teas and other galenical preparations for oral intake.  

Duration of Use

Fennel preparations should not be taken over extended time periods (several weeks) without consultation with a physician or pharmacist.  

Actions

A spasmolytic and antibacterial effect is documented for preparations of anise, fennel, and caraway.  Pharmacological tests for the effectiveness of fixed combinations are not available.