Certified Organic Anise Seed
Pimpinella anisum        

The Anise Seed is known to have B complex vitamins, Vitamin C, Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulphur, iron, and essences.    Anise seed is usually the flavoring which is tasted when eating licorice candy.   The sweet taste and full aroma, is delightful in baked goods.  Oil of Anise seed is commonly used in commercial cough medicine.

In 2005, there was a brief scarcity of star anise due to its use in making Tamiflu. Late in 2005 a way was found of making shikimic acid artificially. A drug company named Roche now derives some of the raw material it needs from fermenting e-coli bacteria. There is no longer any shortage of star anise.

During the Winter Holiday Season, the essential oil from anise seed is used in potpourri.  The Anise is mixed with orange, allspice, cardamom and cinnamon, to create a warm and holiday feel.  

Cautions / Safety:
Do not use if pregnant, unless used as a flavoring in food. Only take essential oil orally with a doctor's supervision.  Do not give to children under the age of 16 years old.  High doses of the oil can cause nausea and vomiting.

The Ayurvedic "trikatu" is taken as a natural antihistamine and is also added to other herbal combinations that are used for the same purpose. (Trikatu = 1 part powdered black pepper, 1 part powdered ginger root, 2 parts powdered anise seed; combine and add a little honey to form a paste; dose is 1/2 tsp 3 times daily before meals.

References -
The New Age Herbalist by Richard Mabey
The Dictionary of Wholesome Foods
Healthy Healing by Linda Page, N.D., Ph.D.