Plant anise herb seeds in a nice sunny spot in soil that has adequate drainage. Anise seeds produce a pungent flavored herb that resembles fennel and licorice, and it is used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. In antiquity, anise was used to treat insomnia. Today, this sweet-smelling herb is commonly found in Indian, and Asian cuisine. The anise herb is also frequently used to flavor liqueurs such as arak, aguardiente, ouzo, and sambuca.