Anethole (Ane)

Anethole is an organic compound that is widely used as a flavoring substance. It is a derivative of phenylpropene, a type of aromatic compound that occurs widely in nature, in essential oils. Anethole is an aromatic, unsaturated ether related to lignols. It exists as both cis-trans isomers, involving the double bond outside the ring. Anethole has potent antimicrobial properties, against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Reported antibacterial properties include both bacteriostatic and bactericidal action against Salmonella enterica but not when used against Salmonella via a fumigation method. Antifungal activity includes increasing the effectiveness of some other phytochemicals against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans; this synergistic effect has potential medical uses. In vitro, anethole has antihelmintic action on eggs and larvae of the sheep gastrointestinal nematode Haemonchus contortus.