• Common name : Anise, Star Anise
• Scientific name : Illicuimverum
• Family : Schisandraceae
• Native land : North-East Vietnam and South-West China
It is a medium-sized native evergreen tree. Star Anise is so named from the stellate form of its fruit. The star-shaped fruits are picked just before ripening and dried before use. It is often chewed in small quantities after each meal to promote digestion and sweeten the breath. The fruit is used in the East as a remedy for colic and rheumatism, and in China for seasoning dishes, especially sweets. It has come into use in the West as a less expensive substitute for anise in baking as well as in liquor production.
