Anise

Anise (Star)

Botanical: Illicuim verum (HOOK, F.)
Family: N.O. Magnoliaceae

---Synonyms---Chinese Anise. Aniseed Stars. Badiana.
---Parts Used--Seeds, oil.

Star Anise is so named from the stellate form of its fruit. It is often chewed in small quantities after each meal to promote digestion and sweeten the breath.

---Names in International Languages--- 

Spanish       :  Anis
French        :  Anis
German        :  Anis
Swedish       :  Anis
Arabic        :  Yanisun
Dutch         :  Anijs
Italian       :  Anice
Portuguese    :  Erva-doce
Russian       :  Anis

---Medicinal Action and Uses---Carminative, stimulant, diuretic.

The fruit is used in the East as a remedy for colic and rheumatism, and in China for seasoning dishes, especially sweets.

The Japanese plant the tree in their temples and on tombs; and use the pounded bark as incense.

The homoeopaths prepare a tincture from the seeds.