Anise

About Anise

Pimpinella anisum is grown for its seeds, which contain anethole, the source of their sweet licorice like flavor. Anethole also flavors star anise, though the two plants are unrelated. It defines spirits such as ouzo, pastis, sambuca, raki, and arak, which turn cloudy when water is added. The Romans served anise spiced cakes after feasts to aid digestion. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean. It is used in breads, biscuits, and cough remedies.