Star Anise has assertive warmth that creates a slight numbing effect in the mouth. The broken star anise pieces are not of a standard size and can range from nearly a whole star anise down to one of the eight points. Star anise is an essential ingredient to pho broth, but works great in other soups and stews, as the flavor of whole star anise builds the longer it cooks in your broths. Star anise pods can also be used to flavor fruits or baked goods.