Star aniseed

Star Aniseed (or Star Anise) is a spice that is widely used in cooking and traditional medicine. It is the fruit of the Illicium verum, a type of evergreen tree native to Southwest China and Vietnam.

Description

Star Aniseed is named for its star-like appearance. It typically has eight points, each of which contains a single seed. The fruit is harvested just before it ripens, then dried to be used as a spice. It has a strong, sweet, and licorice-like flavor.

Culinary Uses

Star Aniseed is a key ingredient in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese cuisine and Vietnamese cuisine. It is one of the main flavors in Pho, a popular Vietnamese soup. In Chinese cooking, it is used in the five-spice powder, a staple in many dishes. It is also used in baking and in the production of liquor, such as pastis and ouzo.

Medicinal Uses

In traditional Chinese medicine, Star Aniseed is used to promote digestion and alleviate abdominal pain. It is also used in Western herbal medicine for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. The main active compound in Star Aniseed, Shikimic Acid, is a primary ingredient in the production of Tamiflu, a medication used to treat influenza.

Cultivation

Star Aniseed trees thrive in warm climates with plenty of rainfall. They are primarily grown in China and Vietnam, but can also be found in other parts of Asia, including India and the Philippines.

See Also

• Spices
• Chinese cuisine
• Vietnamese cuisine
• Herbal medicine