Star Anise
Star anise, a spice also known as pekak flower, has the scientific name Illicium verum. It is an eight-sided brown flower with a sweet taste. Star anise is widely used as a flavoring agent for various dishes in Asia. In Indonesia, this spice is used in Acehnese, Minangkabau, Javanese and Balinese dishes. Aside from being a flavor enhancer, star anise can be used in medicine and cosmetics.