Use

The seeds have been used widely in cooking and are popular in spicy cakes. The oil of anise is often used in artificial licorice and gives its distinctive taste to liqueurs such as anisette and raki. Anise is used in many processed foods, in cough medicines, and is often included in pet foods for the flavor it imparts.

Medicinal Use

Over the centuries, anise has been reported to have numerous medical benefits; but there is no evidence that it offers any pharmacologic benefit. It is thus a flavorful digestive spice that may be soothing, stimulating, or carminative (relieving gas) in different individuals. It is a popular taste in drinks, confections, and simple proprietary medicines.

History

Oil of anise possesses the same aromatic, carminative, and stimulant properties as anise fruits.