“Aniseeds have a distinctive licorice-like flavor and have been used for medicinal purposes throughout history, especially as a digestive aid.”
http://www.aniseeds.com/
Beneficial Uses:
Anise Seed has long been used as a popular remedy to relieve digestive disorders. It is a tonic for the stomach that helps relieve nausea, abdominal pain, gas pains and spasmodic flatulence. Anise helps prevent the fermentation and production of gas in the stomach and bowel and aids in expelling it. Aromatic Anise helps promote good digestion, improve appetite and alleviate cramps and “griping” (sharp pains and grumbling in the bowels). Herbalists recommend Anise to soothe colicky infants.
http://www.herbalextractsplus.com/anise-seed.cfm