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.
---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.
