Anise seeds. Seeds from the anise plant, Pimpinella anisum. These are also known as aniseed and have a wide range of medicinal properties. An oil is extracted from the seeds, or an infusion prepared. These are aromatic with antiseptic properties and are mainly used to aid digestion. Mothers can sip aniseed tea to relieve colic in a breastfeeding baby. The seeds are also widely used in cooking.