Star anise is one of the oldest and most well-known spices used in herbal medicine. It is a member of the Apiaceae family, which includes carrots, parsley, dill, fennel, coriander, and cumin. It has a similar taste to fennel, tarragon, and licorice.

It is used as an expectorant and a mild sedative. It improves digestion, relieves bloating, and has beneficial...