From Peter Parley’s Merry Stories, or Fact, Fancy and Fiction, by Peter Parley, Broadway: James Miller; 1869; pp. 335-335.
This is an annual plant, which is a native of Egypt, and is cultivated in various other countries. The stalk rises to the height of about eighteen inches, dividing into several slender branches, beautified with narrow leaves. The flowers are small, and of a yellowish-white color. It is esteemed useful for various medicinal purposes. The roots have a warm pungent taste; the seeds have an aromatic smell, and an agreeable pungent taste, with a degree of sweetness. Aniseed is much used by confectioners and perfumers. The oil distilled from it is an excellent cordial. It appears to have been common in Judea.
Matthew says, chap. xxiii. 23: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint, and anise, and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith.”
Next — Trees and Plants Mentioned in the Bible:
The Rose.