Anise Seed

Anise seed is a crop common Western Ethion, where it is used extensively for religious ritual and trade.

History

Traditionally, in the Ethite religion, anise seed was used for a myriad of purposes. Brewed into a tea, it was frequently used as a medicine for the sick and part of religious rituals. Girls would often drink anise tea or carry cakes made from anise seed and cinnamon with them on their Ordeal of the Mirage. Most commonly, however, these anise cakes were offered to travelers and by travelers to hosts as a token of friendship. Some people believe this may have developed from integration with the Pelan, but is more likely a way that members of the Ethite religion communicated during the reign of Oliva Jin.

In Trade Today

As the Thisaazhou passed through Ethion and interacted with the Ethite people, they were offered these anise cakes and learned to offer them in return to potential Ethite trade partners. In time, the religious use of anise seed has faded for all but the most traditional of followers, but its use in trade has increased. Now it is common for Ethites wanting to trade to offer anise cakes to passing Thisaazhou. Likewise, Thisaazhou will leave anise cakes in Ethite establishments as a mark of good will. These practices are seen throughout Ethion, though is it especially noticeable in Mevi, where many businesses, Ethite or not, offer a plate of the cookies to customers. But the practice the most common in southwestern Ethion, where a trade agreement is always made at a table with a plate of anise cakes.

Type

Organic