The one common feature in all of these
aniseed drinks is the presence of the herb anise. This plant is usually found in the eastern Mediterranean or south-west Asia and bears a similar taste to liquorice or fennel. This herb was originally brought to Europe because of its supposed medicinal value and is still used in that capacity in some parts of the world. In addition, any aniseed liqueur is unique in that it turns cloudy when mixed with water. This physical change is called the ouzo effect, and occurs because the oil that comes from the anise plant remains suspended when mixed with alcohol, but is released when the concentration of alcohol lessens.