The term "anise" can refer either to aniseed, a small annual that's native to Greece, or to star anise, a large evergreen tree found throughout southeastern Asia. (There's also a related species, Japanese anise, but it's rarely seen in the US.)

All anise is steam-distilled from either the seeds or, in the case of star anise, the star-shaped fruit.

Traditional Herbal Uses

Traditionally, herbalists used anise mainly as an expectorant but many texts list anise as a remedy for everything from digestive disorders to reproductive problems.

In Chinese medicine, anise is believed to increase Qi and is described as warming and drying.

Aromatherapy Uses

Anise has a scent frequently described as "licorice-like" and I can't think of a more appropriate description. It's a warm, slightly "woody" scent that fills the nose with a full, moist sensation.

Aromatherapists generally regard anise as comforting to the mind and helpful to anxious, introverted people who tend to withdraw from social situations.

Blending With Other Essential Oils

Anise has such a strong, distinctive scent that it tends to overpower other oils unless used sparingly. Anchoring anise with a woody oil like patchouli or sandalwood will deepen it nicely but grassy and floral scents are easily overwhelmed.

Anise is generally considered a mid- to base-note.

Safety & Warnings

The safety of anise is hotly disputed with some herbalists going so far as to call for a complete ban. Most essential oil experts, though, regard it as safe, especially considering that so many herbalists prescribe various anise preparations for both internal and external use.