Anise

• Scientific name: Pimpinella anisum
• Family: Apiaceae
• Origin: Eastern Mediterranean region and southwest Asia
• Part used: bulb, leaves, seeds and the roots.
• Medicinal properties: carminative, antispasmodic, expectorant

Anise is plant that grows up to eighteen inches in height; it is a popular culinary herb that is used extensively as a flavoring in different dishes. It is mostly used for dishes that have a touch of sweetness or a bit of spice. Its flowers are small, yellowish white, whereas the leaves are feather shaped. The fruit of anise is flat, oval seeds and grayish to brown in color. It is this part that has a wide variety of medicinal as well as culinary uses.

Nutrient content: The vitamins, the B complex (B1, B2), C, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, iron, aromatic essences.