Pimpinella anisum/Spain, France, Italy, Morocco/Seed. The oil of anise and star anise are often used and sold interchangeably because they are similar in aroma and chemical make-up. The primary constituent of both is anethole, a sweet substance that solidifies at room temperature. If this happens simply warm the bottle in a warm water bath until the oil liquefies. Aromatherapy benefits: cheering, mildly euphoric.