The star anise is botanically known as Illicium Verum. It is dark-brown in colour with eight segments. It has a sweetish licorice taste. Besides, its culinary uses, star anise also has health benefits.Star anise seeds contain ingredients that might have activity against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. People try star anise for treating flu because it is a good source of shikimic acid, which is used in the manufacture of oseltamivir (Tamiflu), a flu treatment.

The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of star anise is useful in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis and dry cough. For this reason, some cough mixtures contain star anise extract.

Star anise can also be used as for its sedating properties to ensure a good sleep.

The oil of star anise is useful in providing relief from rheumatism and lower back pain.

Star anise can also be used as a natural breath freshener.

Shikimic acid, a compound present in star anise is used for preparing drug for curing influenza or the flu virus.

Linalool, a compound present in star anise contains anti-oxidants properties that are very good for one's overall health