Anise is a herb. The seed (fruit) of anise is used to make oil which can futher be used to make medicine.
The health benefits of Anise Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties as an anti-epileptic, anti-hysteric, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, aperient, carminative, cordial, decongestant, digestive, expectorant, insecticide, sedative and stimulant.
Anise is used to cure upset stomach, intestinal gas, runny nose and as an appetite stimulant. Women use anise to increase milk flow when nursing, start menstruation, treat menstrual discomfort or pain, ease childbirth, and increase sex drive.
Some people apply anise directly to the skin to treat lice, scabies, and psoriasis.
In foods, anise is used as a flavoring agent. It has a sweet, aromatic taste. Anise is also used in dairy products, gelatins, meats, candies, and breath fresheners.