ஸ்டார் அனீஸ் (Star Anise) is a spice derived from the fruit of the Illicium verum tree, which is native to East Asia. The spice is named for its star-shaped appearance, with each "point" containing a seed. Star anise has a strong, sweet, and licorice-like flavor, reminiscent of aniseed, and is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is a key ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder and is also used in various Asian cuisines to flavor soups, braises, and sauces. Beyond its culinary applications, star anise is known for its potential medicinal properties, including its use in traditional remedies to aid digestion and respiratory health.