Star Anise

Origin
Southern China, Vietnam, Laos, Philippines, Caribbean.

Flavor
Sweet and spicy aroma, slightly hot, reminder of anise while being deeper and more powerful.

General benefits
Expectorant, eases digestion, warms, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic.

Ayurvedic properties
Its flavor is sweet, astringent and bitter. It is light and dry. Reduces Vata, Pitta, but mostly Kapha.

Culinary uses
In China and Vietnam, star anise is used mostly with poultry and meat dishes. It is also an essential ingredient to the 5 Spices mix. In Europe, it is found in gingerbread mixes, or mulled wine. Anise can be replaced by star anise, the dosage must simply be lighter.