Star Anise or Karan Phool, indeed a super star spice,which embellishes the best Biryanis. Also known as takkolam, nakshatra sompu and chakraphool. 

Did you know that the humble Star anise (Illicium verum) is one of the key ingredients responsible for stopping influenza around the world. Star anise contains a chemical compound called shikimik acid which is used in production of the medicine Tamiflu a globally patented drug for Swine flu.