*Anise seeds are the seeds of the herbaceous plant Pimpinella anisum of the parsley family.

*The anise seeds are grayish brown in color and oval in shape and have a smooth appearance.

*It has an aromatic flavor that closely resembles fennel seeds and licorice.

*These seeds are used in baking (cakes and cookies), slow cooking (soups and stews) etc., that brings out their flavor of the Middle-eastern, Asian and other regional and ethnic cuisines.

*These seeds are also used to flavor liqueurs and aromatic oils.

*Buying and storage: Select fresh, healthy-looking, evenly-sized and evenly-colored seeds without any visible holes, discoloration, or rancid smell. Store them in airtight containers in a cupboard away from light and heat.

Is it raw?

Yes and No.
*Yes, these are mostly raw or sundried.
*No, because sometimes anise seeds at the supermarkets can be roasted.
Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Anise seeds are used to treat a variety of common illnesses like digestion, insomnia, minor aches and pain, common colds and flu, skin irritations, etc.

2. These seeds have an essential oil called anethole, a phytoestrogen that is responsible for its medicinal properties.

3. Anise seed tea is prepared by pouring boiling hot water on a tablespoon of anise seeds and let it steep.

4. When chewed whole, these can be used as a mouth freshener.

5. Anise seed and anise seed oil are used to treat head lice and scabies.

6. Anise seeds are also used to relieve menstrual cramps.

7. Anise seed oil is used in aromatherapy.