Or, add three whole pods to soups, stews and braising liquids to replace one tablespoon of five spice. For this reason, a measurement of freshly ground spice may be equal to even greater than its whole-spice counterpart. In the early summer, these leaves give way to white flowers that will ultimately produce the sought-after seeds.

For example, some people blend green tea with a cinnamon stick and two to four whole star anise and let it steep for about two minutes. Two teaspoons of ground cinnamon weigh the same as one stick, but freshly ground cinnamon has a stronger flavour. However, reports of toxicity in nursing babies exist from breastfeeding parents who drank too much tea containing anise and other herbs. It is intensely aromatic and, when used correctly, can impart a profound sweetness and licorice-like flavor to sweet and savory dishes.

For instance, one animal study noted that anise reduced stomach acid secretion, helping prevent the formation of stomach ulcers and protecting cells against damage ( 8).

Another animal study also reported that anethole improved blood sugar levels in rats with diabetes ( 16). In one test-tube study, anethole blocked the growth of a specific strain of bacteria that causes cholera, an infection characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration ( 10). One teaspoon of anise makes up a serving, though you might not always use the full teaspoon in a recipe. You should be able to smell the intense licorice aroma the second you break off one of a pod’s points.The easy part is over and now we start spooning the dough, which should quite thick, onto the prepared baking sheets. Combined with a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle, anise seed could improve several aspects of your health. But it illustrates a point that both experts say is more crucial than following any formula: Taste as you go. Caraway seeds are known for their woodsy flavor profile with hints of pepper and licorice flavor and a slightly bitter taste. In one 45-day study in diabetic rats, anethole helped reduce high blood sugar by altering levels of several key enzymes.