Anise Seed ( Pimpinella Anisum) comes from a Mediterranean plant which is related to dill, fennel and caraway. This flowering plant is used frequently in the dishes from southern Europe and the Middle East. Anise Seed Cake is a popular snack as is a chilled anise flavored drink. Anise also is believed to aid in digestion, and like fennel, a few seeds can be chewed after dinner to freshen the breath and help digestion. Anise used in manufacturing many commercial cough syrups and sore throat medications to improve flavor. Anise is also believed to aid in digestion and gas relief and is also a good source of iron.