Anise Sweet Cicely

This small genus includes 10 species of aromatic perennials with thick, fleshy roots, occurring in the Americas and Asia. Though commonly known as sweet cicely, they should not be confused with European sweet cicely, Myrrhis odorata (See, European Sweet Cicely). One or two species are occasionally cultivated in herb gardens, especially those devoted to native American herbs. According to the Meskwaki tribe in Wisconsin, O. longistylis is "a good medicine for everything". The plants are also a favorite food for livestock, and the roots are used by several tribes to entice or reward horses. Osmorhiza claytonii may have been used by settlers as a substitute for chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium), hence the common name "jarvil". Little is knownabout the chemistry and properties of Ozmorhiza species. Their characteristic anise aroma is due to anethole, a constituent of the volatile oil. Osmorhiza occidentalis is known to contain falcarindiol, a potent antifungal.

Upright, hairy perennial with compound, downy leaves, divided into ovate to lanceolate, toothed segments, 3-7cm (1¼-3in) long. Tiny white flowers are produced in umbels to 8cm (3in) across in summer, followed by narrow, angular brown fruits, about 3mm (1/8in) long.

Common Name:	Anise Sweet Cicely
Other Names:	Woolly Sweet Cicely, Sweet Jarvil
Botanical Name:	Osmorhiza claytonii
Genus:	Osmorhiza
Family:	Apiaceae
Native Location:	Eastern N America
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe
Harvest:	Leaves are picked when young and used fresh or dried. Unripe and ripe fruits are collected when ready, for use as flavorings. Roots are harvested from late summer to mid-autumn, after the plant has set seed, and used fresh as a vegetable, or dried for use in decoctions and tinctures.
Height:	1m (3ft)
Width:	23-30cm (9-12in)
Hardiness:	Z6
Parts Used:	Fruits, roots
Properties:	An aromatic herb with soothing, carminative effects and an anise-like scent. Possibly antifungal. May stimulate the uterus.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for aid childbirth (roots), Externally, in the form of powder, for ulcerated skin and sores, and either chewed or as a decoction for sore throat (root).
Culinary Uses:	Anise-flavored roots and unripe seeds are edible.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 298