Fennel vs Anise: The Complete Guide to Two Licorice-Like Herbs
- Herbs around us
- Oct 16
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 23
If you have ever bitten into an Italian biscotti flavored with anise or tasted the subtle sweetness of roasted fennel in a Mediterranean dish, you know how easily these two herbs can fool the senses. Both share that unmistakable licorice-like flavor, yet they come from different plants with distinct histories, appearances, and culinary roles.
In American kitchens and health stores, fennel and anise often get confused, especially when it comes to seeds, teas, or herbal supplements. Search “fennel vs anise” online, and you will find plenty of people asking: Are they the same thing? Can I substitute one for the other? Which is healthier?
This guide unpacks everything you need to know: from botanical profiles to cultural traditions, nutritional benefits, and practical cooking advice. By the end, you will not only understand their differences but also know exactly how to use fennel and anise in your own kitchen or wellness routine.
What is Fennel? (Foeniculum vulgare)
Botanical Profile & Origin
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a perennial herb in the carrot family, native to the Mediterranean but now cultivated worldwide. It is a striking plant: tall, feathery green fronds, a pale bulb that resembles celery, and aromatic seeds that pack a sweet, mildly spicy punch.
Unlike many herbs that are prized only for their leaves or seeds, fennel is a triple-threat plant: the bulb, stalks, fronds, and seeds are all edible. This versatility has made it a staple in European, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines for centuries.
Culinary Uses in the U.S.
In American kitchens, fennel has grown beyond its Mediterranean roots:
Bulb: Crisp and slightly sweet, often shaved raw into salads with citrus or roasted alongside meats.
Stalks & Fronds: Used as a garnish or for flavoring stocks, much like dill.
Seeds: A favorite in Italian sausages, Indian spice blends, and herbal teas.
For example, New York chefs often pair roasted fennel with salmon for a refined, licorice-scented dish, while Indian-American households brew fennel seed tea after meals to ease digestion.
Nutritional & Health Value
Fennel bulb is low in calories but high in nutrients:
Vitamin C: 12 mg per 100 g serving (about 20% of the daily value).
Fiber: Supports digestion and fullness.
Potassium: Contributes to blood pressure balance.
Its seeds are rich in antioxidants like anethole, the compound responsible for fennel’s signature aroma and potential anti-inflammatory effects.
What is Anise? (Pimpinella anisum)
Botanical Profile & Origin
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is an annual herb also belonging to the carrot family, but it is much smaller and delicate compared to fennel. Native to the Eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, it has been used for over 2,000 years in both medicine and cuisine.
The plant itself looks more like parsley than fennel, but the star is its seeds: small, brownish-green, and powerfully aromatic.
Culinary Uses in the U.S.
Americans are most familiar with anise through its bold presence in sweets and liqueurs:
Baking: Anise-flavored pizzelle cookies and biscotti in Italian-American households.
Candies: Classic licorice candy often uses anise extract.
Drinks: Infused in traditional Mediterranean liqueurs like ouzo and sambuca.
Unlike fennel, anise is not eaten as a vegetable. It is mainly used in seed or extract form.
Nutritional & Health Value
While you will not be eating anise by the cupful, its seeds pack notable compounds:
Antioxidants: Such as quercetin and anethole, may combat oxidative stress.
Trace Minerals: Including iron, manganese, and calcium.
Traditional Uses: In folk medicine, anise has been used to calm digestion, ease coughing, and balance hormones.
One teaspoon of anise seeds contains about 0.9 grams of fiber, giving even small amounts a digestive boost.
Fennel vs Anise: The Key Differences
Although they are botanical cousins and share flavor notes, fennel and anise are not the same herb. Here is how they diverge:
Botanical Classification
Fennel: Foeniculum vulgare, a perennial plant with multiple edible parts.
Anise: Pimpinella anisum, an annual herb grown mainly for its seeds.
Appearance
Fennel: Has a thick white bulb, green celery-like stalks, feathery fronds, and elongated ridged seeds.
Anise: Grows like a leafy herb with small white flowers, producing tiny oval seeds.
Flavor & Aroma
Fennel: Mild, sweet, slightly herbal. Often described as a “gentle licorice”.
Anise: Intense, sharp, unmistakably licorice-like. Strong enough that a pinch transforms a dish.
Nutritional & Functional Comparison
Health Benefits Backed by Research
Both fennel and anise have long-standing reputations in herbal medicine. But what does modern science say?
Benefits of Fennel
Digestive Relief: A 2016 study published in BioMed Research International found fennel extracts effective in reducing bloating and flatulence.
Anti-Inflammatory Action: Compounds like anethole may help reduce markers of inflammation.
Heart Health Support: Rich in potassium, fennel can contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure.
A cup of raw fennel bulb contains just 27 calories yet provides nearly 3 grams of fiber, making it a nutrient-dense choice for weight-conscious Americans.
Benefits of Anise
Digestive Aid: Traditionally brewed into teas to ease indigestion.
Antimicrobial Potential: A 2019 Journal of Ethnopharmacology review noted that anise oil exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Hormonal Support: Some clinical research suggests anise may help reduce symptoms of menopause, though more studies are needed.
Even in small culinary doses, anise contributes plant-based compounds that may support immune and digestive function.
What the Science Says (with Numbers)
Fennel tea was shown in one trial to reduce colic in 65% of infants compared to placebo (Cochrane Review, 2019).
Anise seed extract reduced hot flashes in postmenopausal women by nearly 75% in a 2012 Iranian clinical trial.
U.S. dietary surveys estimate that fewer than 15% of Americans regularly consume fennel or anise, highlighting the untapped potential of these herbs in modern diets.
Culinary Roles and Flavor Profiles
Fennel in the Kitchen
Fennel is one of those ingredients that bridges the gap between vegetables and spices. In American kitchens, it is increasingly popular with chefs who want to bring subtle sweetness and aroma to their dishes.
Raw fennel bulb: Thinly shaved into salads with oranges or apples, adding crunch and freshness.
Roasted fennel: When caramelized in the oven, its flavor deepens and pairs well with pork, chicken, or salmon.
Seeds: Used in Italian sausage, Indian curries, and Middle Eastern breads.
Anise in the Kitchen
Anise, on the other hand, shines in small but powerful doses. Its sharp licorice flavor can overpower a dish if used heavily, so it is most often reserved for sweets, candies, and drinks.
Baking: Anise seeds are traditional in biscotti and pizzelle cookies.
Candy: That strong licorice candy flavor? Often from anise oil or extract.
Drinks: Classic Mediterranean liqueurs like sambuca and ouzo rely on anise for their signature taste.
In the U.S., anise is less common in savory cooking but remains beloved among ethnic communities, especially Italian and Greek households.
Medicinal Uses of Fennel and Anise
Fennel has traditionally been used not only as a tea but also in powdered and oil-based forms. Fennel tea is a gentle remedy for bloating and indigestion, while fennel seed powder can be taken as a supplement to support gut health and nutrient absorption. In topical use, fennel essential oil is sometimes applied in diluted form for massage, believed to ease muscle tension and improve circulation.
Anise is most widely recognized for its essential oil and extracts, which are used to help with respiratory discomfort. A few drops of anise oil in steam inhalation may support easier breathing, while anise seed tea is valued for its ability to calm mild digestive upset. Some traditional practices also use anise seed powder in capsules to support hormonal balance and reduce menstrual discomfort.
Today, both fennel and anise are available in capsules, tinctures, essential oils, and teas, making them easy to incorporate into modern wellness routines. While fennel tends to be chosen for digestive and circulatory support, anise is more often turned to for respiratory, relaxation, and women’s health benefits. Their versatility in different forms: whether brewed, inhaled, or applied, shows why these two herbs remain trusted natural remedies across cultures.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
While both fennel and anise are generally safe when consumed in culinary amounts, there are a few considerations worth noting:
Fennel Safety
Allergies: Rare but possible, especially in those allergic to carrots or celery.
Hormonal Effects: Some compounds act like phytoestrogens; women with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their doctor before heavy use.
Drug Interactions: Fennel may affect the absorption of certain antibiotics or medications.
Anise Safety
Allergies: Anise belongs to the carrot family, so cross-reactivity is possible.
Hormonal Influence: Some research suggests anise may mimic estrogen; not recommended in excess for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.
High Doses: Anise oil in large quantities can be toxic; best used sparingly.
Expert Insight: According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), both herbs are safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts. Supplements or concentrated extracts, however, should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute fennel seeds for anise seeds in baking?
Yes, but expect a milder flavor. For licorice-heavy recipes like biscotti, anise is preferred.
Are fennel and anise the same as star anise?
No. Star anise is a completely different plant (Illicium verum) native to Asia. It has a similar licorice flavor but comes from a star-shaped pod.
Which is healthier: fennel or anise?
Both offer antioxidants and digestive support. Fennel provides more vitamins and fiber, while anise offers stronger antimicrobial properties.
Are fennel and anise safe for children?
Small amounts of food are safe, but concentrated teas or oils should be used cautiously, especially with infants.
Where can I buy fennel and anise in the U.S.?
Both are widely available at grocery stores, natural food shops, and online retailers like Amazon or Thrive Market. Fresh fennel bulbs are usually found in the produce section, while seeds and teas are stocked with spices and herbs.
References
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) FoodData Central. (n.d.). Nutrient Data for Fennel and Anise.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (n.d.). Fennel and Anise Monographs.
BioMed Research International. (2016). Fennel Seed Extract and Digestive Function.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (2019). Pharmacological Properties of Anise Oil.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. (2019). Fennel for Infant Colic.
Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. (2012). Effects of Anise Seed on Menopausal Symptoms.
