Star Anise (Illicium verum) was known and widely used in the ancient world. Star anise is native to China and Vietnam, and it is today grown almost exclusively in southern China. Star anise has been used as a spice and as medicine for over 3,000 years. It is common spices in Chinese five spice blends. Star anise is an ingredient of the traditional five-spice powder of Chinese cooking. It is also major ingredient in a lot of cuisine, and widely used in Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines and is one ingredient of Chinese five spice.In China star anise is generally used in pork and chicken cuisine and chewed after a meal to sweeten the breath. To use in a broth, add 1-2 anise stars to 4 cups or broth to bring out an herbal flavor. Star Anise should be stored in cool, dry and dark place.