Star anise (star anise) is a small evergreen tropical tree Illicium verum, a close relative of the common anise. The flowers are light, from pale yellow to greenish. The fruits are infructescences, usually consisting of 8, and sometimes of 7, 9.10 and 12 fruitlets, interconnected in the form of a multi-beam asterisk. Each fruit, or clove, has the shape of a dark brown boat, hard, woody to the touch. Star anise - It has a rich composition, which contains many useful properties. It is this factor that allows the use of star anise in medicine. Healing infusions are made from it, which strengthen the nervous system and improve the quality of the body. Star anise infusions are especially good during chronic and catarrhal diseases, they help to quickly restore a good mood and reduce high temperature. In addition to its healing properties, star anise is very tasty and a little sweet, so compotes and jelly are cooked from it. Many confectioners add star anise to cheesecakes, buns and shortbreads, and this spice is also good as an addition to meat, chicken and turkey. Useful properties help strengthen the immune system, so it is also recommended to add it to tea or coffee.