Star anise (also known as aniseed or star aniseed) is the mature fruit of the *Illicium verum* plant, a member of the Magnoliaceae family.  It is named for its star-shaped, eight-pointed appearance and is an indispensable spice in Chinese cuisine, used in stews and braised dishes to remove fishy odors and enhance flavor. It also possesses medicinal properties, including warming the body, dispelling cold, regulating qi, and relieving pain. Its main components are anethole and shikimic acid, but it should not be consumed in large quantities by individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat.