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maiyko

Anise

1 year and up

⚡ Quick answer

An aromatic spice that flavors dishes and baked goods; it should not be given as a tea for colic, but used in trace amounts in food after 12 months.

How to serve it by age?

12-18 months

Sprinkle a very small amount of ground anise into baked goods or dishes and cook; do not make it into a tea to drink on its own.

18-24 months

Continue using it as a mild flavoring in small amounts alongside familiar aromas; do not overdo the portion.

🫁 Choking risk and safe serving

Because whole anise seeds are small and hard, they should not be given whole; use them ground or cooked into food.

📌 Watch out for these

  • Anise tea is not recommended for gas/colic in infants, because toxic Japanese star anise can be mixed into star anise products and it can replace a feeding.
  • Use only as a trace flavoring in food; it should not replace milk or a meal.
  • Be cautious in children sensitive to foods from the same family such as parsley, celery, and fennel.

⚕️ This page summarizes general pediatric recommendations; it is not medical advice. For babies with a history of allergies and whenever you are unsure, consult your pediatrician.