Anise, also called Aniseed, is a Mediterranean plant from the Parsley family.
“Anise” comes from the Old French, which came from Latin, ‘Anisum’ or ‘Anethum’, meaning Dill. It is closely related to Dill, Fennel, and Tarragon.
Though closely related in taste, smell, and flavor, it is not related at all to the Star Anise, which is a spice native to Vietnam and China.
First cultivated in Egypt and the Middle East, Anise eventually made its way to Europe, and was used for everything from gas, to a diuretic, to an appetite stimulant.
Nowadays, it is mostly used to flavor food, candies, baked goods, and drinks.
The scent and flavor profile of Anise are both similar to Licorice, boasting a sweet and spicy essence in fragrances. Its spicy element makes it a perfect pairing for darker scents with wood and spice elements, but can also give a gentle depth and spice tone to lighter scents.
There are fragrances that can be found at Parfumerie Nasreen where Anise, or Star Anise, play a notable role.
Lolita Lempicka Mon Premier Parfum from Lolita Lempicka - This scent is an iconic sweet and spicy scent with Anise’s Licorice tones shining bright alongside a Licorice Accord and a Cherry Accord, with Tonka Bean and Cistus adding depth.
Vanille Reve from Shalini Parfums - This scent is a gourmand lover’s dream with Anise adding a decadent spice tone to a blend of Vanilla and flowers.
Oscar Pour Lui from Oscar de la Renta - This scent has a refreshing element to it with a subtle spice. Anise joins Basil, Caraway, Sage, and Cinnamon amongst notes of citruses, Ambers, and woods.
Caterina from Royal Crown - This scent is dark and sultry. Star Anise makes a blend of fruits and flowers pop with its dark sweetness, and is then warmed with a woody base.
Themis from Giardino Benessere - This scent is rich with woods and two different Ouds. Star Anise adds its sweetness to additional spices of Saffron and Benzoin, giving this scent an exotic vibe.
You can find these scents, and more at Parfumerie Nasreen in Seattle. Check out our website, email or call us, or stop in to try them all!
