Star Anise

Star Anise is a spice made from a tree known as Illicium Verum, a medium-sized evergreen tree native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China. Star Anise has a distinct flavour to the Licorice and Fennel but it is not related to these spices. It has been used in cooking for many years but is also known for its medicinal properties. It is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, and helps treat influenza and urinary tract infections.