Anise oil

Anise oil is an essential oil obtained from the seeds of the Pimpinella anisum plant, commonly known as anise. This oil is characterized by its sweet and slightly spicy aroma, very similar to the flavor of licorice, making it a popular ingredient in the preparation of various traditional dishes and beverages.

Anise originates from the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia, where it has been valued since antiquity for both its culinary uses and medicinal properties. In cooking, anise oil is primarily used as a flavoring in desserts, pastries, liqueurs, and some sauces, providing a distinctive and refreshing touch.

Among its properties, it stands out for its ability to aid digestion and reduce the feeling of bloating, in addition to providing a natural flavor without the need to add sugars or chemicals. It is also known for its carminative and antispasmodic action, which is why it is sometimes included in home remedies to relieve stomach discomfort.

In the Latin American context, anise oil may be found under synonyms such as anisado oil or simply aromatic anise oil, depending on the country and the type of preparation. It is important to distinguish it from oil extracted from other varieties of anise, such as star anise (Illicium verum), as although they share some flavor similarity, they come from different plants.